Security Architect

Steerbridge; Vienna (VA); On-site; USD 170,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan with matching

Paid Time Off

Paid Federal Holidays

Job summary

A federal contractor is seeking an experienced Security Architect responsible for modernizing claims processing systems for the Department of Veterans Affairs. You'll design secure solutions aligned with federal standards such as NIST 800-53 and lead the development of System Security Plans. The ideal candidate has over 10 years of experience in cybersecurity architecture and holds a relevant degree. This position offers a competitive salary range of $170,000 to $180,000, emphasizing a commitment to workplace diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Active Secret security clearance or ability to obtain one required.
• 10+ years of cybersecurity architecture experience.

Responsibilities

• Architect secure solutions across cloud and hybrid infrastructures.
• Develop and maintain System Security Plans (SSPs) and lead ATO processes.
• Conduct security risk assessments and vulnerability remediation planning.

Skills

Cybersecurity architecture experience

Expertise in NIST 800-53

Proven experience developing ATO packages

Knowledge of system hardening

Experience with cloud platforms

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cybersecurity or related field

Job description

Overview

SteerBridge Strategies is a CVE-Verified Service-Disabled, Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) delivering a broad spectrum of professional services to the U.S. Government and private sector. Backed by decades of hands-on experience in federal acquisition and procurement, we provide agile, best-in-class commercial solutions that drive mission success.

Our strength lies in our people—especially the veterans whose leadership, discipline, and dedication shape everything we do. At SteerBridge, we don’t just hire talent—we empower it, creating meaningful career paths for those who have served and those who share our commitment to excellence.

SteerBridge seeks experienced Security Architects to support delivery efforts for our Modern Disability Claims ("MDC") project. This initiative is focused on modernizing claims processing systems for the Department of Veterans Affairs (the “VA”). This role will help define, implement, and maintain a robust cybersecurity architecture across cloud and on-premise environments to support secure data handling, system integrity, and compliance with federal security standards.

Security Architects will play a critical role in shaping the security posture of VA claims processing systems, ensuring alignment with NIST 800-53, FedRAMP High, and the Risk Management Framework (RMF) lifecycle. You will lead the development of System Security Plans (SSPs) and Authority to Operate (ATO) packages in coordination with VA stakeholders and security teams.

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Life Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan with matching
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Federal Holidays

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or a related field.
• An active Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain one is required.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE / QUALIFICATIONS

• 10+ years of cybersecurity architecture experience in federal or large enterprise environments.
• Deep expertise in NIST 800-53, FedRAMP High, and the RMF lifecycle.
• Proven experience developing ATO packages and leading security authorization activities.
• Knowledge of system hardening, network security, encryption protocols, and secure SDLC.
• Experience working with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) in secure environments.

Preferred

• CISSP, CAP, or CISM certification.
• Familiarity with VA-specific security requirements and IT systems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to produce audit-ready documentation.
• Experience coordinating with ISSOs, ISSEs, and federal security teams.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Architect secure solutions across cloud and hybrid infrastructures in support of VA claims systems.
• Develop and maintain System Security Plans (SSPs) and lead all phases of the ATO process.
• Apply and interpret NIST 800-53 controls across system and data environments.
• Lead the implementation of the RMF lifecycle, from system categorization through continuous monitoring.
• Ensure security designs meet FedRAMP High baselines and VA-specific cybersecurity requirements.
• Conduct security risk assessments, gap analyses, and vulnerability remediation planning.
• Collaborate with engineering, infrastructure, and compliance teams to enforce secure design principles.
• Manage the creation of security documentation, policies, and control evidence.
• Participate in security audits, penetration testing coordination, and incident response planning.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for data protection, encryption, and identity/access controls.
• Employees in this role are responsible for safeguarding sensitive information and must adhere to all organizational security and privacy policies, ensuring the protection, proper handling, and confidentiality of data at all times.

$170,000 - $180,000 a year

A salary commensurate with background and experience will be offered.

SteerBridge Strategies is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all qualified applicants and employees are treated with respect and dignity—regardless of race, color, gender, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We also provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. If you require assistance during the application process, we encourage you to reach out so we can support your needs.