Space Systems Cybersecurity and Assessments Project Leader
About The Position
The Cyberspace Combat Department (CCD) within the Cyberspace Systems Security Subdivision (CS3) is at the forefront of defending our Nation's interests in, from, and to the space domain. Our team of leading cybersecurity professionals specializes in defensive cyber operations, space-focused cyber assessments, reverse engineering, and exploit development to ensure cyberspace superiority in support of space control operations. We integrate cutting-edge technologies with deep expertise in cyber warfare to deliver combat-credible capabilities that enable the Joint warfighter to achieve space superiority. We are seeking a Space Systems Cybersecurity and Assessments Project Leader to serve as a technical authority primarily supporting National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) and US Space Force (USSF) missions. In this role, you will work with both internal and external customers as a technical authority, consultant, primary investigator, and project engineer for space-focused cybersecurity initiatives. You will lead technical evaluations of cyber capabilities for Industrial Control Systems/Operational Technology (ICS/OT), space systems, and ground infrastructure while deploying and maintaining advanced cybersecurity tools and platforms that protect national security space systems from cyber threats. This position requires expertise in space systems cybersecurity, cyber assessments, security tool deployment, and emerging defensive cyber technologies. You will interface between customers and Aerospace technical and management staff, mentor less experienced personnel, and drive innovation in space cybersecurity operations.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, or related STEM discipline.
- 6+ years of increasingly responsible professional experience in cybersecurity or space systems security, including systems engineering and/or program management experience.
- Security+ or DoD 8140-compliant certification (e.g., SEC+, CEH, GIAC) meeting DoD Cyber Workforce Program requirements.
- Proven experience with Intelligence Community (IC) and space systems cybersecurity.
- Technical expertise in: Administering and configuring Elastic
- Commonly used offensive cyber tools, such as those found in Kali
- Building, deploying, and maintaining containers using Podman
- Developing Python code for automation and security tools
- Cloud configuration and troubleshooting
- Strong analytical skills for requirement gathering, technical assessments, and analyses of alternatives.
- Demonstrated ability to establish effective working relationships with customers and stakeholders.
- High level of innovation, creativeness, and initiative with out-of-the-box mindset.
- Willing to travel occasionally to work location or customer site approx. 15% of the time if required.
- This position requires an active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain Special Access Program (SAP) clearances, which is issued by the U.S. government.
Nice To Haves
- Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Systems Engineering, or a related field.
- Offensive security certifications: OSCP, CEH, GPEN, or similar penetration testing certifications.
- Extensive Machine Learning expertise
- Knowledge of space system operations including ES, spacecraft commanding and telemetry
- Familiarity with ICS/OT security and emerging space vehicle cyber defense capabilities.
- Deep security expertise with hands-on assessment experience for ICS/OT and/or Space Missions.
- Experience with NRO, NSA, U.S. Space Force, USCYBERCOM, or other IC agencies.
- Knowledge of NIST SP 800-53, RMF, SPD-5, and space cybersecurity requirements.
Responsibilities
- Deploy and Maintain Cybersecurity Tools: Administer and configure Elastic-based security platforms; build, deploy, and maintain containerized applications using Podman; develop and update automation code (primarily Python) for cyber operations.
- Conduct Space-Focused Cyber Assessments: Perform vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, and security evaluations; conduct analyses of alternatives and requirement gathering for capability development decisions.
- Support Space Vehicle Cyber Defense: Apply knowledge of emerging space vehicle cyber defense capabilities, electronic warfare support (ES), spacecraft commanding and telemetry to advance defensive cyber operations.
- Lead Machine Learning Operations: Support building, testing, and verifying machine learning models for cyber threat detection and analysis.
- Manage Projects and Coordinate with Stakeholders: Lead technical teams; coordinate with vendors and government stakeholders to deploy cybersecurity capabilities across the enterprise; interface between customers and Aerospace staff.
- Foster Innovation and Mentorship: Exhibit innovation and out-of-the-box thinking to solve complex cybersecurity challenges; mentor less experienced staff.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
- Relocation assistance
- Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
