Freelance Contractor Program Security Officer Jobs in California

The Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO) / Assistant Facility Security Officer (AFSO) will support the Director of Security/FSO in managing all classified program security requirements across the company's cleared manufacturing and engineering operations. This role ensures compliance with NISPOM, DoD/IC directives, and customer-specific security requirements, while enabling program execution, facility accreditation, and personnel clearance management. The CPSO/AFSO provides day-to-day operational support to maintain APEX's eligibility to perform on classified contracts and to sustain secure facility operations as the business continues to expand.

Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and stewardship of APEX's Security program, ensuring compliance with USG requirements for all sensitive information, including CUI and Compartmented data for DoD and IC customers.
• Manage classified program security activities, including document control, visit requests, access rosters, briefing/debriefings, and secure communications.
• Oversee the management of employee clearances, ensuring compliance with regulations such as NISPOM, ICDs and FSO requirements, and ensuring all personnel have appropriate access
• Conduct regular audits of clearance status and initiate corrective actions when discrepancies arise, collaborating with HR, legal, and compliance teams to ensure timely clearance processing.
• Support the company's Insider Threat Program, including reporting, training, and behavioral indicator awareness.
• Prepare for and support DCSA and sponsoring agency inspections, self-inspections, and audits, ensuring documentation accuracy and readiness.
• Provide security training for employees and contractors, perform physical security assessments, respond to incidents, and collaborate with local law enforcement to maintain a secure environment across facilities.
• Assist with recording daily checks on the cleared facility access control, alarm response, and physical security system oversight in support of UL 2050 and DoD requirements.
• Assist in maintaining Technology Control Plans (TCPs) and support export-controlled workflows in coordination with Engineering, Operations, and Export Compliance.
• Serve as a backup to the FSO for daily operations, classified program support, and government interface.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. Citizen with a current/active TS or TS with SCI eligibility
• 3+ years of IC and DoD security experience showing increasing levels of responsibility.
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge of NISPOM, SAP, SCI, and related security regulations.
• Hands-on experience with DISS, NBIS, NISS and other security related databases.
• Experience with and understanding of DD Form 254's.
• Must be a team player, confident in your ability and able to contribute to the overall growth of the security team.
• Strong understanding of the security procedures and security clearance process and ability to resolve security and/or clearance problems effectively.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with all levels of management.

Desired Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Security Management, Information Security, or related disciplines).
• Security industry certifications, i.e. NCMS Industrial Security Professional (ISP®)
• Experience with SCIF management, construction, and ICD 705 Technical Specification as either a CPSO or in a supporting role.
• Experience as a COMSEC Manager or maintaining COMSEC accounts.
• Strong interpersonal abilities, adept at collaborating with internal teams and engaging effectively with customers to ensure security objectives are met.
• Experience within aerospace or defense contractor environments, with expertise in both physical and IT security, as well as familiarity with the unique security needs of these industries.

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

• Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

• Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

• Comprehensive PTO package: To reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

• Competitive 401(k) plan: With generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

• 8 weeks paid parental leave: Plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

• Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks: To keep you fueled throughout the day

• Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

• Your dream desk setup: And all the tools you need to be your most productive self

• World-class Playa Vista office: With the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

• Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Ready to join a team where your contributions matter and your future is bright? Let's build something extraordinary together.

Apex Technology, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.