Special Security Representative (SSR)

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory•Laurel, MD

About The Position

The Special Security Representative (SSR) primarily serves as the security representative for multiple Sensitive Compartmented Programs, providing expertise across security functions in accordance with 32 CFR 117 (NISPOM), Intelligence Community Directives, SEADs, and other applicable policies and regulations. The role works collaboratively with APL staff across Information Assurance, Security, program management, contracts, and cost account management, and maintains relationships with government security counterparts. The SSR administers SCI personnel security activities, provides security guidance for program development and operations, ensures compliance with government and company requirements, and develops and implements program-specific policies and procedures. The role also coordinates information-system and network compliance with assigned ISSMs/ISSOs, manages facility security administration, advises leadership on security risks and tradeoffs, and provides expertise on Security Classification Guides. The SSR identifies and resolves security issues, performs physical security responsibilities for multiple facilities, and leads government security inspections.

Requirements

Associate degree in Business, Information Systems, or a security-related field; relevant professional business, IT, or security experience and/or education may be substituted.
At least 3 years of relevant security experience, such as CPSO, CSSO, SSR, PSR, or DoD intelligence experience.
Ability to execute security principles and government special security regulations, such as OPSEC, COMSEC, DCID, NISPOM, DoD Manual 5205.07 Volumes I–IV, ICD 704/705, JSIG, or RMF.
Ability to develop and execute security policy, plans, and procedures.
Experience using SIMS or other security management tools.
Experience using DISS, Scattered Castles, or other classified databases.
Excellent organizational and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with staff at all levels and maintain appropriate relationships with security leadership and supported-organization principals.
Experience with Compartmented Access Programs (CAP) and/or Special Access Programs (SAP).
Active TS/SCI security clearance; selected candidates are subject to a government investigation and must meet access requirements, including U.S. citizenship.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Business, Information Systems, or another relevant field.
Direct experience as a special security representative or officer.
Thorough understanding of DoD organizational structures.
Experience addressing challenges in special secure facilities governed by both U.S. Titles 10 and 50 authorities.
Experience working in an organization with reporting responsibilities to multiple sponsors or authorities.
Some knowledge of information systems.

Responsibilities

Serve as the Special Security Representative for multiple Sensitive Compartmented Programs and provide expertise in applicable security functions and regulations.
Collaborate with APL staff in Information Assurance, Security, program management, contracts, and cost account management, and maintain relationships with government security counterparts.
Perform SCI personnel security activities, including validating access, processing SCI eligibility, handling polygraph requests and nomination interviews, submitting investigative requests, conducting security briefings, and obtaining signed nondisclosure agreements and statements.
Provide security guidance for program development and operations; ensure compliance with government and company regulations; develop, obtain approval for, and implement program-specific policies and procedures, including SOPs.
Participate in self-inspections and government compliance inspections.
Coordinate with assigned ISSM/ISSO to ensure information systems and networks comply with contract requirements and have appropriate accreditations; create and track CUAs, JUAs, and applicable MOUs/MOAs.
Ensure facility security administration, documentation, and management comply with contractual guidance across multiple programs and facilities.
Advise leadership on security risks and tradeoffs that affect project, test, or evaluation objectives.
Advise Program Managers on interpreting, applying, and complying with Security Classification Guides.
Identify and resolve security challenges, including legal, regulatory, and compliance concerns; perform physical security responsibilities for multiple facilities.
Lead government security inspections and advise internal parties on preparation requirements and outcomes.

Benefits

Robust education assistance program
Retirement plans and contributions
Paid time off
Medical insurance
Dental insurance
Vision insurance
Life insurance
Short-term disability insurance
Long-term disability insurance
Flexible spending accounts
Training and development
Potential sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance, or discretionary performance payments