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Chief Information Security Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

City of Norfolk, VA

Chief Information Officer

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$159K - $231K/yr

The CIO monitors emerging technologies, assesses their organizational impact, and ensures strong information security practices and reliable access to critical systems. In addition, the CIO leads ...

SAIC

Information System Security Engineer

Mclean, VA · On-site

$200K - $240K/yr

... Chief Information Officer (CIO). * Monitor and track projects in the A&A queue. * Maintain a ... Provide security guidance in terms of policy and technical implementation of those policies.

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Chief Information Security information

See Virginia salary details

$69.4K

$147.5K

$230.5K

How much do chief information security jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for chief information security in Virginia is $147,470.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $117,000.00 and $166,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chief information security officer?

A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) is a senior executive responsible for establishing and maintaining an organization's vision, strategy, and programs to ensure information assets and technologies are adequately protected. The CISO oversees the development and implementation of security policies, manages risk, and ensures compliance with relevant laws and regulations. They also lead incident response efforts and work closely with other departments to foster a culture of security throughout the organization.

What are some common challenges a chief information security officer faces when balancing security initiatives with business objectives?

A Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) often navigates the challenge of aligning robust security measures with the organization's strategic goals. This requires balancing the need to protect sensitive data and systems without hindering business agility or innovation. CISOs must communicate risks effectively to executives and stakeholders, ensuring that security investments are prioritized appropriately. Additionally, they frequently lead cross-functional teams and must stay updated on evolving threats to anticipate and mitigate potential risks while supporting business growth.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chief information security officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), you need deep expertise in information security, risk management, and cybersecurity frameworks, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field and professional certifications like CISSP or CISM. Familiarity with tools such as SIEM platforms, vulnerability assessment systems, and regulatory compliance software is essential. Outstanding leadership, communication, and strategic thinking are crucial soft skills for managing teams and influencing organizational security culture. These competencies are vital for protecting organizational assets, ensuring regulatory compliance, and guiding effective responses to emerging cyber threats.

What is the difference between Chief Information Security vs Cybersecurity Manager?

AspectChief Information SecurityCybersecurity Manager
CertificationsCISSP, CISM, CISACISSP, CISM, CISA (common)
Work EnvironmentExecutive leadership, strategic planningOperational security teams, project management
Employer & Industry UsageLarge corporations, government agenciesMedium to large organizations, tech firms
Search & Comparison IntentStrategic security leadershipSecurity team management

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) focuses on strategic security policies and executive decision-making, while a Cybersecurity Manager handles day-to-day security operations and team management. Both roles require similar certifications and are vital in protecting organizational assets, but they differ mainly in scope and level of responsibility.

What are popular job titles related to Chief Information Security jobs in Virginia?

For Chief Information Security jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Chief Information Security jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Chief Information Security jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Chief Information Security jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Chief Information Security job openings:

Chief Information Security jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chief Information Security job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,470 per year, or $70.9 per hour.

Chief Information Security Officer

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

University of Virginia
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 10K+ employees

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

211th of 627 rated colleges and universities

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Recommended by students

Learn more about University of Virginiaexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 25 days ago

Job description

The University of Virginia (UVA), one of the nation's leading public institutions, seeks an experienced, dynamic, and mission-driven leader to be the next Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). Reporting to the Vice President and Chief Information Officer (CIO), the CISO will provide strategic leadership and oversight to a diverse portfolio. They will lead high-performing teams and work collaboratively across a large, complex institution.
The CISO must enjoy engaging with the University community, drawing on strong communication skills, a natural ability to build relationships, and comfort explaining complex technical concepts to faculty and staff at all levels. The complexity of this position requires strong leadership, collaboration and partnership skills, and the ability to balance the urgency surrounding the risk of emerging threats with university strategies and business needs.
Position Summary
As a critical member of the Information Technology Services (ITS) leadership team, this pivotal role is responsible for establishing and maintaining a university-wide information security management program to ensure that the university's data and assets are adequately protected. The CISO must stay current with the evolving threat landscape (particularly involving AI-based threats), ensure staff are upskilling to keep pace, and challenging the status quo to ensure the University maximizes its investment in its information security resources. The candidate will work closely with IT leadership, administrative leaders, and academic faculties across Grounds to identify, evaluate, and report on information security risks in a manner that meets compliance and regulatory requirements and aligns with and supports the risk posture of the University.
Key responsibilities include:
  • Information Security Program Leadership
  • Team Leadership
  • Policy, Compliance and Audit
  • Community and Partner Engagement
  • Risk Management, Security Operations, Projects, and Incident Response

Attributes, Competencies, and Qualifications
The successful candidate will bring a distinctive blend of leadership, strategic perspective, and technical expertise to advance the institution's information security strategy, strengthen organizational resilience, and build trusted partnerships across the univeristy.
The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following attributes:
  • Curious - Asks thoughtful questions, listens actively, and seeks understanding before taking action.
  • Entrepreneurial - Embraces new ideas, explores innovative solutions, and remains open to different approaches.
  • Resourceful - Identifies practical solutions, navigates constraints effectively, and remains focused despite obstacles.
  • Collaborative - Builds strong relationships, values consultation, and engages stakeholders in developing solutions.
  • Adaptable - Questions existing processes constructively and adjusts effectively as priorities and circumstances evolve.
  • User-Centered - Considers the impact of security practices and technologies on users' ability to work effectively and achieve their goals.
  • Growth-Oriented - Fosters a culture of continuous learning, encourages skill development, and helps teams embrace new approaches as needs change.

In addition, the successful candidate will possess many of the following compencies and qualifications:
  • A bachelor's degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a related field (advanced degree preferred).
  • Professional security management certification is strongly desired, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), or other similar credentials.
  • At least 10 years of experience in a combination of risk management, information security, and IT jobs (at least five must be in a senior leadership role).
  • Knowledge of common information security management frameworks, such as ISO/IEC 27001, and NIST 800-53, 800-171, and Cybersecurity Framework (CSF).
  • Familiarity with AI and machine learning-based tools used across the information security lifecycle.
  • Experience with contract and vendor negotiations and management, including managed services.
  • Experience with Cloud Computing/IaaS/PaaS/SaaS technologies and services.
  • Strong understanding of the higher education sector's policy, regulatory, and legislative environment is preferred.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal, relationship-building, and collaborative skills, and the ability to communicate security and risk-related concepts to technical and nontechnical audiences at all levels.

The CISO role is based in Charlottesville, VA, with an expectation of strong in-person presence to effectively engage with leadership and stakeholders. A hybrid work model is available, with flexibility to work remotely when appropriate and consistent with the needs of the organization.
The full position description can be viewed here.
To Apply
The University of Virginia has retained Opus Partners to support this recruitment. Katie Dean , Senior Partner, and Abigail Maynard , Manging Associate, are leading the search. Applications (resume and letter of interest), confidential inquiries, and nominations should be sent to Abigail Maynard at abigail.maynard@opuspartners.net .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .
The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA's commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment .
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About University of Virginia

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The University of Virginia is distinctive among institutions of higher education. Founded by Thomas Jefferson in 1819, the University sustains the ideal of developing, through education, leaders who are well-prepared to shape the future of the nation.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Charlottesville, VA, US

Year founded

1819

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