Mercer Engineering Research Center (MERC), a research institute of Mercer University, provides high quality engineering, scientific, and technical support services to both government and private industry customers. The Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist leads and conducts cybersecurity operations for enterprise-based information technology (enclave, systems, or networks), platform-based information technology (systems or aircraft), and/or software development activities. The Senior Principal Cybersecurity Specialist may perform evaluations (compliance audits and/or vulnerability assessments), and is involved in the establishment of strict program control processes to ensure risk mitigation and adherence to national, state, and local laws, and/or MERC policy. The incumbent also supports the development of new techniques and capabilities for system security. Directs and conducts cybersecurity operations for enterprise IT, platform IT, and software development programs. Provides senior-level technical oversight to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of mission-critical systems. Leads multidisciplinary cybersecurity teams, projects, and initiatives to meet organizational and mission objectives. Performs compliance audits, vulnerability assessments, and security evaluations to identify and mitigate risks. Establishes and enforces program control processes to ensure adherence to DoD, federal, state, and local regulations, as well as MERC policy. Develops and maintains risk management frameworks, ensuring systems meet accreditation and certification standards. Researches, develops, and implements new cybersecurity techniques, tools, and capabilities. Advises leadership on emerging threats, evolving technologies, and best practices for proactive defense. Contributes to the design, validation, and continuous improvement of secure systems and software. Partners with program managers, engineers, and external stakeholders to integrate cybersecurity into all phases of system development and operations. Provides expert guidance and mentorship to junior cybersecurity professionals. Represents the organization in technical exchanges, audits, and compliance reviews. Oversees the operation and security of dedicated cybersecurity laboratories used for research, testing, training, and evaluation. Designs and maintains lab environments that replicate enterprise and platform IT systems for vulnerability analysis, penetration testing, and secure system validation. Manages lab resources, schedules, and personnel to support multiple concurrent projects. Ensures lab compliance with DoD, federal, and organizational security standards, including proper handling of classified or sensitive data. Drives innovation by piloting new tools, techniques, and methodologies within the lab before enterprise-wide deployment. Ensures thorough familiarity and awareness of all MERC core capabilities and with the MERC current and potential customer base. Whenever possible, uses any available opportunity to promote MERC capabilities and interests to customers and potential customers. Submits suggestions for new business opportunities or report identified customer problems or opportunities to the Director of Acquisition Strategy through a Chief Engineer. Leads/supports Technical Interchange Meetings with customers. Provides mentorship and leadership to more junior level employees. During all business-related activities, particularly during customer contacts, remains alert for any problem or opportunity that might lead to additional business for any MERC core business area.
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Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree