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Operational Security Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Trulieve

Technical Security Specialist

Scottsdale, AZ · On-site

Technical Security Specialist Reports to: Director of Security Department: Security Location ... Assists with collection of intelligence, operations, and the communication of time-sensitive ...

Armada

Security Specialist - Journeyman

Keyser, WV

The Journeyman Security Specialist will support daily operations in coordination with the Special Security Representative (SSR) or Government SAP Security Officer (GSSO) to implement enhanced ...

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Operational Security Specialist information

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$34.5K

$78.2K

$131.5K

How much do operational security specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for operational security specialist in the United States is $78,176.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $100,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Operational Security Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Operational Security Specialist, you need a solid background in security protocols, risk assessment, and threat mitigation, often supported by a degree in cybersecurity or a related field. Familiarity with security information and event management (SIEM) tools, incident response systems, and certifications such as CISSP or CISM is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for this role. These abilities ensure that vulnerabilities are identified and addressed proactively, keeping organizational assets and sensitive information secure.

What are some common challenges faced by Operational Security Specialists when implementing security protocols across diverse teams?

Operational Security Specialists often encounter challenges in ensuring that security protocols are consistently followed by employees from different departments with varying levels of security awareness. Coordinating training, overcoming resistance to change, and addressing gaps in communication between technical and non-technical staff are common hurdles. Specialists must tailor their approach to educate and engage team members, promote a culture of security, and regularly assess compliance to mitigate risks effectively. Building strong cross-departmental relationships is essential for fostering cooperation and maintaining robust security standards.

What is the difference between Operational Security Specialist vs Security Analyst?

AspectOperational Security SpecialistSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentField operations, security teams, on-siteOffice, cybersecurity teams, monitoring centers
Industry UsageMilitary, government, corporate securityIT firms, financial institutions, tech companies

Operational Security Specialists focus on physical security measures, operational procedures, and on-site security protocols. Security Analysts primarily analyze cybersecurity threats, monitor networks, and implement digital security measures. While both roles require similar certifications and often work within security teams, their environments and daily tasks differ significantly, with operational specialists emphasizing physical security and analysts focusing on cyber threats.

What are Operational Security Specialists?

Operational Security Specialists are professionals responsible for protecting an organization’s sensitive information, assets, and operations from security threats and vulnerabilities. They develop, implement, and maintain security policies and procedures to safeguard data and ensure compliance with regulatory standards. These specialists also conduct risk assessments, monitor for security breaches, and train staff on best security practices. Their work is crucial in preventing data leaks, cyberattacks, and other security incidents that could impact business operations.
More about Operational Security Specialist jobs
What states have the most Operational Security Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Operational Security Specialist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Operational Security Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Operational Security Specialist jobs are:
Operational Security Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Operational Security Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 4% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,176 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

Security Specialist - TS/SCI Required

Tulk LLC

Springfield, VA

Other

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Security Specialist

TULK is seeking applicants who can provide security expertise, guidance, consultation, facilitation, and leadership in all security related functions pertaining to: personnel security; industrial and physical security; computer investigation and awareness; security operations; and other security business.

Qualified candidates should hold a Top Secret SCI (TS/SCI) security clearance, hold a Bachelors degree or possess equivalent experience and demonstrate 7-10 years of experience, 3 of which should be within the DOD or IC (Intelligence Community).

Additionally, candidates must have 2 years of hands-on experience with Common Access Cards and Government Security Management Systems

Your resume should show significant experience in a distinct functional or cross-functional security areas (e.g., personnel, physical, industrial security; computer investigations; classification management; operational security; security education, etc.)

You should also have experience directing the activities of security specialists as necessary on related activities.

Successful candidates must obtain DoD Security Professional Education Development (SPeD) Certification IAW DoD Manual 3305.13M within 1 year of service start date.

Related job titles include: IT Infrastructure Specialist; Classification Management Specialist; Operations Security (OPSEC) Specialist; Personnel Security Specialist; Security Education and Awareness (SEA) Specialist; Senior Security Specialist; Security Customer Service Representative; Adjudicator; Adjudicative Risk Assessor; Suitability Support; Quality Assurance Support; Information Management/Technical Support; Special Actions and Investigations; Security Analyst; Security Analyst (Developmental); Senior Physical Security Specialist; Case Manager; Access Control Specialist; Industrial/Physical Security Specialist; Industrial Security Specialist; Security Technician/Office Coordinator; Security; Security Technical Writer/Editor; Security Data Miner/Analyst; Customer Support; Background Investigations Support, Financial Disclosure Analyst.

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