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Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer Jobs

Vantor is seeking a highly motivated, self-starter to join our team as a Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO). In this role, you will serve as the primary security authority supporting one or ...

$15.75 - $18.75/hr

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a self-starting, customer service-oriented Contractor Program Security Officer to join our Special Programs Security Department at the Applied Research ...

Overview The Contractor Program Security Officer will assist in overseeing and managing physical and operational security measures to safeguard personnel, facilities, and classified information ...

Overview The Contractor Program Security Officer will assist in overseeing and managing physical and operational security measures to safeguard personnel, facilities, and classified information ...

Overview The Contractor Program Security Officer will assist in overseeing and managing physical and operational security measures to safeguard personnel, facilities, and classified information ...

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Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer information

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$33.5K

$100.4K

$155.5K

How much do freelance contractor program security officer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance contractor program security officer in the United States is $100,365.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $71,500.00 and $132,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance contractor program security officer?

A Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer is a security professional who works independently or on a contract basis to oversee and manage security protocols for specific programs, often in industries dealing with sensitive or classified information. Their main responsibilities include ensuring compliance with government security regulations, conducting security training, managing security clearances, and responding to security incidents. They may work with multiple organizations, providing expertise on a project-by-project basis to help safeguard personnel, information, and assets.

What is the difference between Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer vs Contract Security Guard?

AspectFreelance Contractor Program Security OfficerContract Security Guard
CredentialsSecurity certifications, background checks, sometimes specialized trainingBasic security training, license depending on jurisdiction
Work EnvironmentCorporate, government, or high-security facilities; often project-basedRetail, events, or building entrances; fixed shifts
Employer & Industry UsageContracted by organizations for security programs; industry includes government and private sectorsHired by security companies or directly by clients for on-site guarding

The Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer typically handles security program management, risk assessment, and compliance in specialized environments, requiring specific certifications. In contrast, Contract Security Guards focus on physical presence and basic security duties. Both roles are essential in security operations but differ in scope, responsibilities, and work settings.

What are some common challenges faced by a freelance contractor program security officer when working with multiple clients?

Freelance Contractor Program Security Officers often manage security protocols across different organizations, each with its own policies and risk profiles. Balancing the unique compliance requirements of multiple clients can be challenging, especially when adapting to varying security cultures and expectations. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to ensure that all parties are aligned and that sensitive information is handled appropriately. Additionally, staying updated with evolving security standards and maintaining clear boundaries between clients' confidential data are critical for long-term success in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance contractor program security officer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer, you need in-depth knowledge of security protocols, risk management, and compliance regulations, often backed by relevant security clearances and a degree in criminal justice or a related field. Familiarity with security information management systems, government security directives, and certifications like Certified Protection Professional (CPP) or Industrial Security Professional (ISP) is typically required. Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are essential soft skills for this role. These skills ensure the protection of sensitive information, compliance with contractual and legal obligations, and the ability to coordinate security measures across multiple stakeholders.
What cities are hiring for Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer jobs? Cities with the most Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Contractor Program Security Officer jobs? The most popular types of Contractor Program Security Officer jobs are:
What states have the most Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer jobs? States with the most job openings for Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer jobs include:

Contractor Program Security Officer

Penn State University

University Park, PA • On-site

$15.75 - $18.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.8

Company rating: 7.8 out of 10

Based on 103 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

228th of 617 rated colleges and universities


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
We are searching for a self-starting, customer service-oriented Contractor Program Security Officer to join our Special Programs Security Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This position will be responsible for development and administration of local security programs/procedures for classified and proprietary materials, documents, and equipment in support of United States Government (USG) and Department of Defense (DoD) programs.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
  • Apply a working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs), and the sponsor's amplifying instructions to assist the day-to-day of the Industrial Security Program operations
  • Assist with implementation of visitor control, safeguarding, classification management, physical security, information system security, security education, access control, alarm testing and maintenance, and personnel security for adherence to all government security requirements
  • Assist with development, review, coordination, and execution of Program Security documentation such as; Fixed Facility Checklist, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Transportation Plans, Program Access Requests (PARs), Emergency Action Plan (EAP), Disaster Recovery Plan, Continuity of Business Plan, and Document and Media Control
  • Manage the control of electronic devices and other security items
  • Assist opening and closing of facilities, perform end-of-day checks and daily inspections; provide/coordinate after-hours alarm support
  • Engage and collaborate with sponsor security staff to ensure program security policies and procedures follow company and customer requirements
  • Establish and maintain effective communications with customers, security staff, program leads, and department management
  • Collaborate with other security staff for special projects as required
  • Assist with escorting visitors, which may require support outside of normal business hours
  • Assist the local Communications Security (COMSEC) account manager for COMSEC policy implementation
  • Coordinate and support classified conferences and provide visitor management support and badging

Required skills/experience areas include:
  • An active Top Secret security clearance, with SCI eligibility
  • Industrial security
  • Success in environments, where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective

Preferred skills/experience areas include:
  • Government security policies, automated information systems security, physical security, and personnel security

Your working location will be fully on-site, located in State College, Pennsylvania. You will be responsible for responding to alarms and escorting visitors, sometimes at off-hours.
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
If filled as Integrated Security Specialist (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:NoneIf filled as Integrated Security Specialist (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:Associate Degree2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications:None
ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL):Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $75,408.00 - $132,204.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
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