Information System Security Engineer (ISSO) / IT Systems Engineer

Talent Depot • Arlington, VA

26d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking an experienced Information System Security Engineer (ISSO) / IT Systems Engineer to serve as the Classified Information Security Lead for the organization. This Arlington-based role is responsible for managing and safeguarding Secret and Top-Secret information across diverse research and operational environments. Candidates must be U.S. citizens with an active Top Secret (TS) clearance and SCI eligibility.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship with an active TS clearance and SCI eligibility
• Strong understanding of federal regulations governing classified information (e.g., NISPOM, ICDs, RMF)
• Experience maintaining the security posture of classified and unclassified systems
• Proficiency with cybersecurity compliance, documentation, and system accreditation
• Ability to support diverse research environments, including non-standard or specialized computing setups
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder-coordination skills
• Ability to balance end-user needs, sponsor requirements, and contract timelines in a fast-moving environment

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary lead for classified information security, ensuring full compliance with federal regulations governing the handling, storage, transmission, and protection of national security information.
• Maintain the security posture of classified and unclassified systems, including configuration, monitoring, and continuous improvement.
• Oversee cybersecurity compliance, documentation, and accreditation artifacts (e.g., security plans, risk assessments, POA&Ms).
• Execute contract-specific security duties supporting legal proceedings, research operations, and government-sponsored programs.
• Support research environments spanning multiple sponsors, classification compartments, and non-standard computing environments.
• Work closely with end users, program managers, and sponsors to meet contract milestones, address technical needs, and support new proposals and project launches.

Benefits

• You will serve as the lead authority for classified information security across a mission-driven organization.
• You will work directly with high-impact research programs, legal operations, and government-sponsored initiatives.
• You will shape and maintain secure environments across multiple classification levels and technical architectures.
• You will play a critical role in enabling new research, proposals, and project execution while ensuring full compliance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed