Security Engineer, Systems Security

Saronic•Washington, DC

About The Position

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms. Security at Saronic is a force multiplier. We're seeking a Security Engineer to own the product security and authorization lifecycle for Saronic's autonomous surface vessels. You will serve as the responsible security engineer for one or more vessel programs, owning the security posture from design through production, authorization, and operational deployment. This is a hands-on security engineering role; not a GRC or project management role. No single compliance framework covers autonomous surface vessels today. DoD authorization processes are evolving, commercial maritime regulators are still drafting the MASS Code, and classification societies are issuing their first autonomous vessel certifications. You'll identify the frameworks that apply, architect the vessel's security to satisfy them, and drive authorization to completion. Where standards don't yet exist, you'll define them.

Requirements

6+ years of hands-on experience in product security, systems security engineering, authorization engineering, or a closely related security engineering role for defense or high-assurance platforms
Strong understanding of DoD cybersecurity authorization processes (RMF, ATO/IATT, CSRMC, continuous ATO) with experience contributing to or driving systems through authorization
Working knowledge of NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-171, and CMMC 2.0 and their application to weapons systems, autonomous platforms, or similarly complex defense products
Experience with threat modeling, security architecture, or risk assessment for cyber-physical systems, embedded systems, or operational technology environments
Strong technical foundation, able to read architecture diagrams, evaluate security controls at a systems level, and hold credible technical conversations with hardware, software, and cloud engineers
Ability to clearly communicate with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, including production of security documentation and authorization artifacts
Ownership mindset with the ability to operate in ambiguity, define the path forward, and move work to completion across teams
Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Nice To Haves

Experience as a product security lead, systems security engineer, or authorization lead for a defense platform or program of record
Direct experience engaging with government Authorizing Officials, program offices, or DOT&E as a technical security representative
Experience in defense technology startups, DARPA programs, or organizations that move at speed within the defense acquisition system
Familiarity with maritime-specific frameworks including IMO MASS Code, IACS UR E26/E27, IEC 62443, or classification society autonomous vessel rules
Understanding of autonomous systems security challenges including communications security, electronic warfare hardening, GPS/GNSS resilience, and AI/ML system security
Experience with ITAR/EAR compliance, supply chain security, or manufacturing security for defense products
Familiarity with the defense acquisition lifecycle and how authorization milestones integrate into program schedules

Responsibilities

Own the security posture for one or more vessel programs from architecture through fielding, serving as the responsible security engineer for the product
Drive threat modeling across vessel subsystems including embedded compute, communications, navigation, propulsion controls, sensor fusion, and C2 interfaces and define security architectures, trust boundaries, and segmentation strategies based on findings
Identify and mitigate security risks unique to autonomous maritime platforms, including GPS/GNSS spoofing, RF interference, sensor manipulation, supply chain compromise, and physical access threats
Own the end-to-end authorization lifecycle for vessel programs, from initial security planning through ATO or equivalent customer authorization milestones
Navigate DoD cybersecurity authorization frameworks including RMF, CSRMC, and service-specific requirements across Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, and joint programs
Prepare and maintain authorization artifacts, security documentation, and evidence packages that satisfy Authorizing Officials and program offices
Identify and map applicable compliance frameworks for each vessel and customer segment including NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-171, CMMC 2.0, FedRAMP, IEC 62443, IMO MASS Code, and IACS UR E26/E27 and proactively define Saronic's compliance posture where standards are still emerging
Engage directly with government program offices, Authorizing Officials, DOT&E evaluators, and classification societies as a credible technical representative of Saronic's security posture
Support cybersecurity testing and evaluation efforts, including preparation for operational test events, red team assessments, and cooperative vulnerability assessments
Partner with supply chain and manufacturing teams to address hardware provenance, firmware integrity, and anti-tamper requirements for production vessels
Work with Legal and Contracts to ensure security and compliance requirements are accurately reflected in customer agreements, proposals, and contract deliverables

Benefits

Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services
Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents
Dental and Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care
Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents
Time Off: Generous PTO and Holidays
Parental Leave: Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents
Competitive Salary: Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses
Retirement Plan: 401(k) plan with company match
Stock Options: Equity options to give employees a stake in the companyâs success
Life and Disability Insurance: Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage
Pet Insurance: Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline
Additional Perks: Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office