VP, Principal Security Engineer

Synchrony; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 155,000 - 260,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking a Principal Security Engineer to enhance security engineering functions, integrating on-premise technologies into AWS cloud environments. The role requires deep expertise in cybersecurity and collaboration skills to lead technical projects and influence security strategies.

Qualifications

• 5 years in Security, Engineering, or related field required.
• 2 years in regulatory compliance and security management frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead efforts to ensure AWS cloud services are built with security best practices.
• Drive complex security initiatives and manage high-impact projects.

Skills

Collaboration

Problem Solving

Communication

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree

High school diploma/GED

Tools

AWS

CISSP

CISM

CISA

GIAC

Job description

Job Description:

Role Summary/Purpose:

We are seeking a highly experienced Principal Security Engineer to lead technical projects aimed at enhancing our security engineering functions. This role involves integrating on-premise security technologies into cloud environments, primarily AWS, and providing technical leadership across teams. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in cybersecurity, DevOps, infrastructure, and development, with strong influence and collaboration skills. This position is critical for advancing our security initiatives in the public cloud and shaping core security solutions.

Our Way of Working

We offer flexibility including options to work from home, nearby hubs, or offices. Occasional in-person engagements such as meetings, training, or culture events may be required.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Lead efforts to ensure AWS cloud services are built with security best practices.
2. Design and implement scalable security solutions bridging on-premise and cloud technologies.
3. Collaborate with security and technology leadership, influencing security strategy.
4. Drive complex security initiatives, proactively managing high-impact projects.
5. Innovate security technologies, challenge the status quo, and provide thought leadership.
6. Contribute to developing advanced security practices and technologies.
7. Guide security leadership with strategic advice integrated into organizational security strategies.
8. Participate in annual budgeting, identifying investment areas.
9. Mentor team members, fostering a culture of learning and collaboration.
10. Serve as a technical leader and SME, guiding best practices adoption.
11. Assess, prioritize, and mitigate security risks with cross-functional teams.
12. Develop technical plans, document analyses, create diagrams, and communicate projects effectively.
13. Maintain and update security policies aligned with regulations and organizational goals.
14. Evaluate and integrate new security tools and processes, documenting requirements.
15. Advise on technical implementation of core services like data protection and network security.
16. Act as liaison between security and engineering teams to embed security in all development stages.
17. Represent security in technical discussions, architecture reviews, and governance.

Qualifications/Requirements:

1. Bachelor’s degree with at least 5 years in Security, Engineering, or related field, or 9 years of equivalent experience with a high school diploma/GED.
2. Minimum 5 years in a security engineering or architecture role.
3. At least 2 years in regulatory compliance and security management frameworks (e.g., PCI-DSS, NIST 800-53).
4. Proven ability to develop security strategies considering technical and organizational factors.
5. Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills across teams.
6. Strong problem-solving skills for complex security issues.
7. Effective communicator and influencer at all organizational levels.
8. Deep knowledge of enterprise technology stacks.
9. Ability to mentor and advise domain experts and contributors.
10. Adaptability to evolving technologies and strategic priorities.
11. Conflict management skills for high-impact initiatives.
12. Willingness to perform other duties or projects as assigned.

Desired Characteristics:

• Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CISA, GIAC.
• AWS certifications like Security – Specialty and Solutions Architect/Professional.
• Understanding of emerging technologies' impact on security requirements.
• Focus on delivering high-quality, efficient service aligned with business needs.
• Strong decision-making skills, balancing costs and benefits.
• Technical expertise in security and IT systems, keeping pace with changes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for influencing across levels.
• Proven experience working effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to communicate complex issues clearly and effectively.

Grade/Level: 13

The salary range is USD 155,000 - 260,000 annually, with potential bonuses. Compensation depends on experience, skills, and market adjustments in CA, NY, and Seattle.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 18 or older.
• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Willing to undergo drug testing, background check, and fingerprinting.
• Must meet Federal Deposit Insurance Act Section 19 requirements.
• Internal posting restrictions apply based on tenure and performance.

Legal authorization to work in the U.S. is required. We do not sponsor visas. All qualified applicants receive equal consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Our Commitment:

We value diversity and inclusion, fostering a culture where your skills and voice are appreciated. We celebrate differences and believe diverse perspectives make us stronger. Our Diversity Networks engage over 60% of our workforce, providing community and growth opportunities.

This opportunity starts with your application. We ensure fair consideration for all qualified applicants without regard to age, race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.

Reasonable Accommodation Notice:

• We provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Please inform us if you need assistance during the application or employment process.
• Contact our Career Support Line at 1-866-301-5627, available 8am – 5pm CST, for accommodations.