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Operational Security Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 Aug 13, 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?

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 is an operational security specialist?

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
Infographic showing various Operational Security Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 10% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,176 per year, or $37.6 per hour.

$90K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

You will serve as a SECURITY SPECIALIST in the Cyber Operations and Security Division (Code 163) of SUPSHIP. You will develop & monitor security policies, program & procedures for Personnel, Physical, Information, Industrial & Operational Security as well as Anti-Terrorism Force Protection functional security disciplines.
A relocation incentive is generally a single payment intended to offset some of the relocation costs experienced by the selectee. A relocation incentive may be authorized.Qualifications:Your resume must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the to the next lower pay band, NH-02 (GS-11 equivalent) in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private or public sector leading or coordinating the requirements of multiple security areas (e.g. physical security, industrial security, anti-terrorism/force protection program) to ensure nondisclosure of information, property or materials.
Additional qualification information can be found from the following Office of Personnel Management web site: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/#url=List-by-Occupational-Series
Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.Education:This job does not have an education qualification requirement.Employment Type: OTHER