Forward Deployed Cyber Security Engineer

Persistent Systems•New York, NY

2d•$190,000 - $242,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Persistent Systems is seeking a Forward Deployed Security Engineer who combines deep cyber security expertise with hands-on software and tool development experience. In this role, you will embed directly with customer teams—traveling to field and operational sites as needed—to understand their operational needs and collaborate closely with internal engineering teams to design and deploy innovative security solutions that enhance mission success in dynamic environments.

Requirements

Strong background in cyber security, including hands-on experience with security testing, hardening, incident response, or vulnerability analysis.
Proficiency in software development or tool creation (Python, C++, Go, or similar), including experience building automation, security utilities, or integration frameworks.
Experience working in forward-deployed or customer-facing roles, preferably in mission-driven environments.
Ability to solve complex technical problems in fast-moving, resource-constrained field settings.
Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate across cross-functional teams.
U.S. citizenship, with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance.
Willingness to travel up to 50% of the time, including extended stays at customer and field locations.

Nice To Haves

Experience with secure communications systems, tactical networks, or distributed architectures.
Familiarity with DevSecOps workflows, CI/CD pipelines, or secure software lifecycle practices.
Background supporting government, defense, or critical infrastructure customers.
Certifications such as CISSP, OSCP, CEH, CompTIA Security+ (DoD 8570/8140 baseline), or equivalent.
Active U.S. security clearance already in place.

Responsibilities

Serve as the onsite technical security representative and primary liaison between customer operations and Persistent Systems engineering—assessing requirements, identifying capability gaps, proposing tailored solutions, and ensuring rapid feedback loops and high-quality outcomes.
Develop, extend, and maintain custom security-focused tools, scripts, and software modules to support fielded systems and mission workflows.
Collaborate with internal engineering, product, and R&D teams to transform customer challenges into actionable development efforts and long-term product enhancements.
Perform security assessments of systems, architectures, and networks, providing clear, actionable recommendations to both customers and engineering stakeholders.
Support deployment, integration, and troubleshooting of secure systems in real-world operational environments.
Translate complex technical concepts into concise guidance for users, stakeholders, and leadership.