Secure Systems Engineer – Cyber Architecture & Edge Security

The Aerospace Corporation • Colorado Springs, CO

2d

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation is seeking an experienced cybersecurity professional to serve as a Secure Systems Engineer (Information Security Staff V), supporting the architecture and engineering of secure, resilient systems across enterprise IT, edge computing, and operational technology (OT). The role embeds security into the software development lifecycle, strengthens defenses at the network edge, and advances automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC) practices across engineering teams. The position is part of a cybersecurity team responsible for securing complex aerospace environments.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of professional IT or cybersecurity experience.
• At least 5 years of network security experience, with specific experience or strong working knowledge of edge computing architectures.
• Demonstrated, informed use of AI-assisted coding tools and the ability to validate, understand, and take ownership of AI-generated code.
• Familiarity with OT environments and their distinct security considerations.
• Programming familiarity sufficient to engage meaningfully in code reviews.
• Strong technical IT background, such as systems administration, networking, or infrastructure engineering, with hands-on experience.
• Practical experience with automation and IaC tools and principles, such as Terraform, Ansible, or CloudFormation.
• Ability to collaborate across engineering, IT, and security teams on complex technical initiatives.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a US Secret security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or Information Systems.
• Familiarity with AI/ML model development concepts and lifecycle.
• Experience with secure testing and development methodologies, such as SAST/DAST, secure code scanning, or penetration testing fundamentals.
• Familiarity with threat modeling frameworks such as STRIDE, PASTA, or DREAD.
• General awareness of NIST frameworks and risk management guidance; deep compliance framework experience, such as CMMC, is a plus but not required.
• Familiarity with applicable cybersecurity laws and regulations.
• Experience operating in specialized OT environments such as aerospace, defense, or industrial control systems.
• Relevant certifications such as Security+, CySA+, GSEC, CISSP, or equivalent.
• Track record of mentoring junior engineers or contributing to team-wide technical standards.
• Current and active Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Partner with software engineering teams to embed secure software development practices throughout the SDLC, including design, build, and release.
• Assess and strengthen network security controls, particularly for edge computing architectures and distributed or remote deployments.
• Maintain working awareness of OT systems and their distinct risk considerations in an aerospace environment.
• Apply programming familiarity to contribute to and eventually lead software review initiatives, identifying security weaknesses in application logic.
• Architect, troubleshoot, and secure systems across hybrid, cloud, and on-premises environments.
• Advance automation and IaC adoption to improve the consistency, repeatability, and security of deployments.
• Support secure testing methodologies and contribute to threat modeling exercises as expertise develops.
• Produce clear, thorough technical documentation for audits, knowledge transfer, and engineering standards.
• Stay current on cybersecurity laws, regulations, and risk management frameworks relevant to aerospace and defense.
• Coordinate with SOC, IT operations, and engineering stakeholders on architectural security matters and emerging threats.
• Mentor junior staff and share engineering and security expertise across the cybersecurity team.
• Stay informed about emerging secure development, automation, and AI-assisted engineering trends.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) plan with company-paid benefits based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested upon hire.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

What This Job Offers

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