Senior Defensive Security Engineer – Embedded Systems

Silvus; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Silvus is looking for a Senior Defensive Security Engineer to protect embedded systems from threats. This role involves designing robust security measures and conducting assessments to ensure compliance with standards. Located at Silvus Technologies’ headquarters in West Los Angeles, CA, it requires a hybrid work schedule with at least three days onsite.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in Linux security, scripting in embedded C/C++, and hold a U.S. Government SECRET clearance. Compensation is competitive, ranging from $140,000 to $200,000 annually based on experience.

Qualifications

• 5 years in cybersecurity and 2 years in defensive security roles focused on Linux.
• Active U.S. Government SECRET clearance or ability to obtain it.
• U.S. Citizenship required.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement security architectures for embedded systems.
• Conduct security assessments and audits of Linux-based embedded systems.
• Manage vulnerabilities in Linux-based embedded systems.

Skills

Linux network security

Secure coding

Embedded systems security

Coding/scripting in embedded C/C++

Familiarity with Linux security tools

Clear communication skills

Education

High School diploma or GED

Bachelor or Master’s in Cybersecurity or related field

Tools

iptable

auditd

Lynis

Job description

Senior Defensive Security Engineer – Embedded Systems

Reports to the Director of Software Engineering. Focus on protecting embedded systems from potential threats by designing and implementing robust security measures, conducting security assessments, and ensuring compliance with industry standards.

Location: Silvus Technologies’ headquarters, West Los Angeles, CA. Hybrid schedule: minimum 3 days onsite per week (Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays).

Role & Responsibilities

• Design and implement Linux-based security architectures for embedded systems, focusing on secure boot and kernel hardening.
• Develop and enforce Linux security features, including iptables, netfilter, and auditd for intrusion detection and prevention.
• Conduct security assessments and audits of Linux-based embedded systems to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Integrate Linux security best practices into the development lifecycle (DevSecOps), emphasizing secure coding and configuration management.
• Manage vulnerabilities in Linux-based embedded systems, including timely patching and kernel updates.
• Train teams on Linux security practices, including privilege management, file system permissions, and container security.
• Participate in incident response planning and execution for Linux-based embedded systems.
• Implement Linux-native encryption and authentication mechanisms (e.g., dm-crypt, OpenSSL, PAM) for secure communications.
• Perform other related duties as representative.

Required Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED plus 5 years of experience in cybersecurity, with at least 2 years of experience in defensive security roles focused on Linux-based systems.
• Expertise in Linux network security, secure coding, or embedded systems security.
• Coding/scripting in embedded C/C++ for Linux environments.
• Familiarity with Linux security tools like auditd, Lynis, or vulnerability scanners.
• Active U.S. Government SECRET clearance or the ability to obtain one within 15 months of hire.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen due to clients under U.S. government contracts.
• All employment is contingent upon successful clearance of a background check and drug test.

Preferred Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Bachelor or Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or related field.
• Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, GIAC Security Expert, CompTIA Security+, or Linux-specific (LFCS, RHCE).
• Hands‑on experience implementing Linux security controls (SELinux, AppArmor, iptables) and conducting security assessments.
• Proficiency in Linux security frameworks such as CIS Benchmarks, NIST SP 800‑53, or STIGs.
• Broad experience with Linux secure development lifecycle practices.
• Knowledge of Linux threat intelligence and threat modeling.
• Familiarity with Linux container security (Docker, Podman) and cloud environments.
• Strong communication skills to explain Linux security concepts to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Collaborative teamwork with cross‑functional groups.
• Experience securing resource‑constrained Linux‑based embedded systems.
• Understanding of real‑time Linux systems and their security implications.
• Knowledge of Linux hardware security integration, such as TPM or Secure Enclave.
• Demonstrated experience designing secure Linux communication systems with encryption, authentication, and key management.
• Familiarity with mobile ad‑hoc networking security on Linux platforms.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Office environment.
• While performing duties, the employee is required to:
  • Lift equipment up to 20 lbs. for set‑up of demonstrations or testing.
  • Perform bending and reaching movements to place items on lower and higher shelves.
  • Kneel or squat to access lower shelves.
  • Walk or move in labs.

Compensation

CA Pay Range: $140,000 – $200,000 USD. The actual offer will be based on the individual candidate. Pay will vary depending on experience and qualifications.

EEO & Legal Notices

NOTE – As a U.S. Federal Contractor, Silvus Technologies requires that all candidates being considered for employment for any position (regardless of level) must be a U.S. Person (permanent resident or citizen). Stricter U.S. Citizen‑only requirements for certain Engineering or R&D roles are included in the Required Qualifications section.

Motorola Solutions is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or any other legally protected characteristic.

We’re committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruiting experience for candidates with disabilities or other physical or mental health conditions. To request an accommodation, please complete the Reasonable Accommodations Form.