IT Specialist (Programmer/Operator)

CAE Inc; Altus (OK); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits package

Work-life balance

Professional development

Recognition & advancement

Job summary

CAE Inc. is seeking an IT Specialist (Programmer/Operator) in Oklahoma to support the IT Lead in maintaining central servers, workstations, and desktop apps within a CAE training systems environment.

You will manage hardware, software, cloud services, cybersecurity controls, data management, and scheduling tools, while ensuring compliance with DoD standards. Responsibilities include security monitoring, vulnerability assessments, incident response, and providing technical guidance on cloud and

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in MIS/CS/IT or equivalent experience.
• 5+ years in Information Technology or related environments.
• Ability to obtain IAT Level III certification within six months of probation.
• Experience with cloud environments (AWS/Azure/Google Cloud).
• U.S. citizenship required for DoD contract work.

Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and manage secure cloud environments (SharePoint, CloudOne, AWS) aligned with NIST, ISO 27001, FedRAMP.
• Administer systems connected to secure government networks and enforce cybersecurity requirements.
• Configure IAM, MFA, and RBAC for cloud and on-prem systems.
• Implement and monitor security controls (IDS/IPS, SIEM, endpoint protection).
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing; mitigate risks.
• Manage networking infra (firewalls, VPNs, load balancers) for secure connectivity.
• Conduct security audits, risk assessments, and disaster recovery planning.
• Develop incident response plans and support rapid threat mitigation.
• Stay informed on security trends and best practices; provide guidance.
• Maintain learning management, content management, scheduling apps, and inventory databases.

Skills

Cloud security

IAM/MFA/RBAC

Firewall/VPN/IDS/IPS

SIEM/Endpoint protection

Linux/Windows server

NIST ISO 27001 FedRAMP

Incident response

Penetration testing

Networking fundamentals

DoD security concepts

Education

Bachelor’s degree in MIS/CS/IT

Tools

AWS

Azure

Google Cloud

SharePoint

CloudOne

ACAS

Splunk

CrowdStrike

Syslog/SIEM tools

Job description

Who We Are

CAE Vision: Our vision is to be the worldwide partner of choice in defense and security, and civil aviation by revolutionizing our customers’ training and critical operations with digitally immersive solutions to elevate safety, efficiency and readiness. CAE Defense & Security Mission: CAE's Defense and Security business unit focuses on helping prepare military customers to develop and maintain the highest levels of mission readiness. CAE Values: Empowerment, Innovation, Excellence, Integrity and OneCAE make us who we are and we strive to make a difference in the world while helping each other succeed.

What We Have to Offer

• Comprehensive and competitive benefits package and flexibility that promotes work-life balance
• A work environment where all employees are valued, respected and safe
• Freedom to succeed by enabling team members to deliver, take initiatives and make decisions
• Recognition, professional development, advancement and having fun!

Summary

The IT Specialist (Programmer/Operator) supports the IT Lead in maintaining and operating central network servers, end‑user workstations, and common desktop applications for a CAE training systems environment. This role manages hardware, software, cloud services, cybersecurity controls, data management systems, learning platforms, scheduling and administration tools, and inventory applications. The IT Specialist performs system configuration, security monitoring, vulnerability assessments, incident response, and technical support while ensuring compliance with applicable security frameworks and Department of Defense (DoD) standards.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and manage secure cloud environments (SharePoint, CloudOne, AWS) in alignment with NIST, ISO 27001, FedRAMP, and related standards.
• Administer systems connected to secure government networks and enforce applicable cybersecurity requirements.
• Configure and maintain Identity and Access Management (IAM), MultiFactor Authentication (MFA), and Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) for cloud and on premises systems.
• Implement and monitor security controls, including IDS/IPS, SIEM, and endpoint protection solutions.
• Conduct vulnerability assessments and penetration testing; identify and mitigate system risks.
• Manage networking infrastructure such as firewalls, VPNs, and load balancers to maintain secure connectivity between cloud and on prem environments.
• Conduct recurring security audits, risk assessments, and disaster recovery planning.
• Develop and maintain security incident response plans and support rapid mitigation of threats.
• Stay informed on emerging security trends, vulnerabilities, and industry best practices.
• Provide technical guidance and training on cloud and cybersecurity practices to internal personnel.
• Monitor overall system usage and performance.
• Ensure scheduled and non‑scheduled backup procedures—including media handling, documentation, storage locations, and testing—remain functional and compliant.
• Perform information security vulnerability scanning using ACAS tools and produce reports and remediation plans (POA&Ms).
• Install, test, configure, maintain, and upgrade systems, applications, hardware, and network infrastructure in compliance with cybersecurity requirements (STIG, SRG, NIST).
• Implement, monitor, and sustain established technical security controls for the computing environment.
• Develop compensating controls for identified security gaps.
• Assist with developing or maintaining system documentation, security plans, procedures, and technical references (network topology, hardware/software inventories).
• Maintain learning management systems, content management systems, scheduling applications, configuration management tools, websites, and inventory databases.
• Provide technical support for end users regarding workstation applications, network access, and system usage.
• Support website maintenance, updates, and availability.
• Assist in coordinating system deployments and updates.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications and Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 5 or more years of experience in Information Technology or related environments.
• Ability to obtain an Information Assurance Technician (IAT) Level III certification within six months of completing the probationary period.
• Experience with cloud environments such as AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud.
• Due to U.S. Government contract requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this role.

Preferred Skills

• Strong background in firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, SIEM systems, and endpoint security.
• Knowledge of security frameworks including NIST, CIS, ISO 27001, and FedRAMP.
• Familiarity with incident response tools and monitoring systems such as Splunk, Sentinel, or CrowdStrike.
• Proficiency in Linux and Windows server administration.
• Strong analytical skills in risk assessment, cybersecurity troubleshooting, and secure solution implementation.
• Knowledge of client/server environments, telecommunications, network migration, desktop computing, and systems integration.
• Experience with network analysis, design, tuning, and support.
• Understanding of large‑scale storage technologies (SAN, NAS, fiber channel, tiered storage, replication, backup).
• Proficiency in Ethernet networking protocols.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; ability to explain technical security concepts to non‑technical users.
• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work overtime, alternate shifts, or weekends as required.
• Understanding of military protocols and customs.

Security Responsibilities

Must comply with all company security and data protection / usage policies and procedures. Personally responsible for proper marking and handling of all information and materials, in any form. Shall not divulge any information, or afford access, to other employees not having a need‑to‑know. Shall not divulge information outside company without management approval. All government and proprietary information will be accessed and stored electronically on company provided resources. Incumbent must be eligible for DoD Personal Security Clearance. Due to U.S. Government contract requirements, only U.S. citizens are eligible for this role.

Work Environment

Work is performed in a professional office environment using standard communication and computer equipment. Domestic and international travel may be required. Occasional work within training environments that may include exposure to mechanical systems, elevated areas, operational training devices, and potential electrical or mechanical hazards.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Ability to walk, climb stairs, and access simulator or cockpit environments. Ability to detect odors, noises, or other auditory/visual indicators related to system performance or environmental conditions. Ability to perform general mobility tasks within training device areas as needed.

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for their job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Position Type

Position Type Regular

About CAE

About CAE At CAE, our mission is clear: to help make the world a safer place. For nearly 80 years, we’ve driven innovation in simulation, training, and mission readiness to support critical operations worldwide. By leveraging advanced technologies, we empower our customers to operate smarter, faster, and more sustainably. Join a purpose-driven organization where bold ideas are encouraged, collaboration drives progress, and your growth fuels our shared success.

Position Type Regular Equal Opportunity Employer CAE is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, national origin, age, religion, sex, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. At CAE, everyone is welcome to contribute to our success.

CAE USA Inc. is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will be considered for employment without regard to any protected characteristic, including disability and protected veteran status, as defined under federal, state, or local laws.

Applicants needing reasonable accommodations should contact their recruiter at any point in the recruitment process. If you need assistance to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at [e-mail].

Applicants needing reasonable accommodations should contact their recruiter at any point in the recruitment process. If you need assistance to submit your application because of incompatible assistive technology or a disability, please contact us at [e-mail].

Data Privacy Privacy Statement | CAE As part of our process, we may use AI‑supported tools to help review applications, with human decision‑making at every step.

CAE thanks all applicants for their interest. However, only those whose background and experience match the requirements of the role will be contacted. Welcome to CAE! As a global leader in Civil Aviation and Defense & Security across 40 countries, we advance together as One CAE, fueled by thousands of passionate individuals operating in a culture where everyone can thrive. We hold ourselves accountable for building an inclusive community at every level, and our comprehensive benefits support you professionally and personally. Together, we are All For shaping a future where safety, sustainability, and inclusivity lead the way. Join us and be part of something bigger—where your impact reaches beyond CAE and helps shape the world of tomorrow.