Senior Cyber Security Engineer (Job 1356)

DLH•Bethesda, MD

2d•$157,000 - $171,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Cybersecurity Engineer serves as a technical leader within the National Institute on Aging (NIA) Information System Security Office (ISSO) by designing, implementing, and maintaining security controls that protect NIA information systems, data, and infrastructure. This role ensures compliance with federal cybersecurity standards while proactively identifying and mitigating risks across systems supporting scientific research and administrative operations. This senior-level role is critical to safeguarding systems that support cutting-edge aging research. The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, and committed to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. The position requires strong technical expertise, familiarity with federal security frameworks, and the ability to collaborate with system owners, researchers, and IT teams.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
10+ years of progressive experience in cybersecurity engineering, information security, or related roles
CISSP industry certification
Hands-on experience with NIST RMF and federal compliance frameworks (e.g., FISMA, NIST SP 800-53)
Experience supporting ATO processes and developing security documentation (SSP, POA&M, SAR)
Strong understanding of network security, system hardening, identity and access management, and vulnerability management
Experience with security tools such as SIEM (e.g., Splunk), vulnerability scanners (e.g., Tenable, Qualys), and endpoint protection platforms
Experience with Zero Trust Architecture principles
Knowledge of cloud security principles (e.g., AWS, Azure, or GCP)
Familiarity with incident response processes and security operations
Must be able to obtain a Public Trust clearance

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Assurance, or related field
Relevant industry certifications such as CGRC, CISA, CISM, CEH, Security+, or GSEC
Experience within federal agencies, NIH, or HHS environments
Knowledge of FedRAMP and cloud authorization processes
Experience with DevSecOps practices and automation tools
Familiarity with container security and modern application architectures
Strong scripting skills (e.g., Python, PowerShell, Bash)
Excellent communication skills and ability to translate technical risks for non-technical stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Design, implement, and maintain cybersecurity controls aligned with NIST RMF (Risk Management Framework)
Support system Authorization to Operate (ATO) processes, including preparation and maintenance of security documentation (SSP, POA&M, SAR)
Conduct security assessments, vulnerability scans, and risk analyses
Monitor system security posture and respond to incidents in coordination with NIH security operations
Implement and manage security tools such as SIEM, endpoint protection, and vulnerability management platforms
Ensure compliance with FISMA, NIST SP 800-53, and NIH/HHS security policies
Provide technical guidance to system owners on secure architecture and system hardening
Support continuous monitoring activities and reporting requirements
Assist with incident response, forensic analysis, and remediation activities
Participate in audits and provide required artifacts and evidence