Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist

Mercer University; United States; On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Mercer Engineering Research Center (MERC), part of Mercer University, seeks a Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist to lead cybersecurity operations across enterprise, platform, and software development programs. You will oversee audits, vulnerability assessments, and risk mitigation to ensure compliance with DoD and MERC policy.

Responsibilities include developing security methods, mentoring junior staff, and coordinating with program managers and external stakeholders to integrate

Qualifications

• US Citizenship is required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.
• Ph.D. in Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Forensics, Information Assurance, Information Technology, or related field from an ABET-accredited institution with 9 years of relevant experience; or a Master’s with 14 years; or an undergraduate degree with 15 years.

Responsibilities

• Lead and conduct cybersecurity operations for enterprise IT, platform IT, and software development programs.
• Perform compliance audits, vulnerability assessments, and security evaluations to identify and mitigate risks.
• Develop risk management frameworks and ensure accreditation standards across DoD, federal, state, and local regulations.

Skills

Cybersecurity leadership

DoD compliance

Risk management

Audits & assessments

Team leadership

Education

Ph.D. in Cybersecurity/related field

Master's degree in related field

ABET-accredited undergraduate degree

Job description

Job Title: Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist

Department: MERC

Division: Mercer Engineering Research Center

Primary Job Posting Location: Warner Robins, GA 31088-7810

Job Details

Mercer Engineering Research Center (MERC), a research institute of Mercer University, provides high quality engineering, scientific, and technical support services to both government and private industry customers.

The Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist leads and conducts cybersecurity operations for enterprise-based information technology (enclave, systems, or networks), platform-based information technology (systems or aircraft), and/or software development activities.

The Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist may perform evaluations (compliance audits and/or vulnerability assessments), and is involved in the establishment of strict program control processes to ensure risk mitigation and adherence to national, state, and local laws, and/or MERC policy.

The incumbent also supports the development of new techniques and capabilities for system security.

Directs and conducts cybersecurity operations for enterprise IT, platform IT, and software development programs. Provides senior-level technical oversight to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of mission-critical systems. Leads multidisciplinary cybersecurity teams, projects, and initiatives to meet organizational and mission objectives. Performs compliance audits, vulnerability assessments, and security evaluations to identify and mitigate risks. Establishes and enforces program control processes to ensure adherence to DoD, federal, state, and local regulations, as well as MERC policy. Develops and maintains risk management frameworks, ensuring systems meet accreditation and certification standards. Researches, develops, and implements new cybersecurity techniques, tools, and capabilities.

Advises leadership on emerging threats, evolving technologies, and best practices for proactive defense. Contributes to the design, validation, and continuous improvement of secure systems and software. Partners with program managers, engineers, and external stakeholders to integrate cybersecurity into all phases of system development and operations. Provides expert guidance and mentorship to junior cybersecurity professionals.

Represents the organization in technical exchanges, audits, and compliance reviews. Oversees the operation and security of dedicated cybersecurity laboratories used for research, testing, training, and evaluation. Designs and maintains lab environments that replicate enterprise and platform IT systems for vulnerability analysis, penetration testing, and secure system validation.

Manages lab resources, schedules, and personnel to support multiple concurrent projects. Ensures lab compliance with DoD, federal, and organizational security standards, including proper handling of classified or sensitive data. Drives innovation by piloting new tools, techniques, and methodologies within the lab before enterprise-wide deployment. Ensures thorough familiarity and awareness of all MERC core capabilities and with the MERC current and potential customer base.

Whenever possible, uses any available opportunity to promote MERC capabilities and interests to customers and potential customers. Submits suggestions for new business opportunities or report identified customer problems or opportunities to the Director of Acquisition Strategy through a Chief Engineer. Leads/supports Technical Interchange Meetings with customers.

Provides mentorship and leadership to more junior level employees. During all business-related activities, particularly during customer contacts, remains alert for any problem or opportunity that might lead to additional business for any MERC core business area.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• US Citizenship is required.


• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance.


• A Ph.D. in Cybersecurity, Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Computer Forensics, Information Assurance, Information Technology, or other related information security focused degree from an ABET-accredited institution and 9 years of relevant experience; or a Master’s degree in same and 14 years of relevant experience; or an undergraduate degree in same and 15 years of relevant experience.


• Nine years of experience leading/organizing cybersecurity projects and/or personnel at any level.


• Expert in three of the following areas, proficient in one area, and possess varying levels of knowledge in the remaining areas: software security, system administration, security testing, information assurance, design, implementation, validation, and compliance.

CompTIA Security+ C Final rank will be determined on the qualifications of the selected candidate. Application must include a cover letter and resume.

BENEFITS OF WORKING AT MERC

MERC is a non-profit research institute of Mercer University, a private university founded in 1833. Established in 1987 in Warner Robins, GA, MERC employs more than 200 engineers, scientists, professors, and support staff, who provide sustainable research solutions to government agencies, the Department of Defense, and commercial customers around the world. Warner Robins and the middle GA area are located 90 miles south of Atlanta and within easy driving distance of both the beach and mountains. The area is known for its Southern-style music, food, and restaurants and has a rich cultural and art presence, along with excellent health care and schools. MERC offers a generous benefits package including health and dental insurance, retirement, tuition reimbursement, vacation/sick leave accrual, and holiday pay.

Why Work at Mercer University Mercer University offers a variety of benefits for eligible employees including comprehensive health insurance (for self and dependents), generous retirement contributions, tuition waivers, paid vacation and sick leave, technology discounts, schedules that allow for work-life balance, and so much more! At Mercer University, a Bear is more than a mascot: it's a frame of mind that begins with a strong desire to make the most out of your career. Mercer Bears do not settle for mediocrity or the status quo. If you're seeking an environment where your passion and determination are embraced, then you want to work at Mercer University. For more information, please visit: https://hr.mercer.edu/prospective/

Scheduled Weekly Hours: 40

Job Family: Staff MERC Exempt

EEO Statement: EEO/Veteran/Disability Why Work at Mercer

Why Work at Mercer Mercer University offers a variety of benefits for eligible employees including comprehensive health insurance (for self and dependents), generous retirement contributions, tuition waivers, paid time off, technology discounts and so much more! At Mercer University, a Bear is more than a mascot: it's a frame of mind that begins with a strong desire to make the most out of your career. Mercer Bears do not settle for mediocrity or the status quo. If you're seeking an environment where your passion and determination are embraced, then you want to work at Mercer University. For more information, please visit: https://hr.mercer.edu/prospective/

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER The University will ensure equal opportunity for applicants and employees in all of its policies and practices, including, but not limited to, recruiting, hiring, transfers, promotions, compensation, benefits, layoff and recall policies, University-sponsored training programs, education, tuition assistance, and social and recreational programs. Persons needing reasonable accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in the application process or for other questions regarding employment at Mercer University, please contact Human Resources.