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Program Security Specialist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Security Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

The Security Specialist will assist the Program Manager (PM) and Program Security Officer (PSO) with the overall security management functions of the SCIF and, if necessary, a SAPF. This includes ...

Serve as a Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO) or SAP Personnel Security Officer (SPO) providing direct support to the Government Program Security Officer (PSO) and the other Security ...

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Security Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

The Security Specialist will assist the Program Manager (PM) and Program Security Officer (PSO) with the overall security management functions of the SCIF and, if necessary, a SAPF. This includes ...

Security Specialist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$100K - $160K/yr

The Security Specialist will assist the Program Manager (PM) and Program Security Officer (PSO) with the overall security management functions of the SCIF and, if necessary, a SAPF. This includes ...

The Security Specialist will assist the Program Manager (PM) and Program Security Officer (PSO) with the overall security management functions of the SCIF and, if necessary, a SAPF. This includes ...

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Program Security Specialist information

What is a program security specialist?

Program Security Specialists are professionals responsible for ensuring the protection of sensitive information and assets within a specific program or organization. They develop, implement, and oversee security policies and procedures to safeguard classified or proprietary data from unauthorized access, disclosure, or theft. Their duties often include conducting risk assessments, coordinating security training, managing clearances, and ensuring compliance with government or company regulations. Program Security Specialists work closely with other security personnel, managers, and sometimes external agencies to maintain a secure environment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program security specialist?

To thrive as a Program Security Specialist, you need a thorough understanding of security protocols, risk management, classified information handling, and typically a bachelor’s degree in security management or a related field. Familiarity with security systems, government regulations (such as NISPOM), and certifications like Certified Protection Professional (CPP) are commonly expected. Strong attention to detail, analytical thinking, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing sensitive programs and liaising with stakeholders. These skills and qualifications are essential to ensure compliance, safeguard critical assets, and maintain trust in high-security environments.

What are some common challenges faced by program security specialists when balancing project requirements with security protocols?

Program Security Specialists often need to navigate the tension between meeting strict project deadlines and ensuring full compliance with security protocols. One common challenge is collaborating with project managers and technical teams to implement necessary security measures without causing project delays. This role requires strong communication and problem-solving skills to advocate for security best practices while supporting the overall success of the program. Proactively addressing potential security risks and providing practical solutions can help maintain both security standards and project timelines.

Program Security Specialist (Advanced)

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Koniag, Inc.
Investment Management and Consulting Services • 501 - 1,000 employees

$160K - $190K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Job description

This position may be filled prior to the posted deadline. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Koniag IT Systems, LLC, a Koniag Government Services company, is seeking a Program Security Specialist ( Advanced) with a TS/ SCI (SAP Eligibility Required) to support KITS and our government customer in Falls Church, VA.
We offer competitive compensation and an extraordinary benefits package.
Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, paid parental leave, life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, commuter benefits and tuition reimbursement.
We are seeking a highly meticulous and experienced Program Security Officer (PSO) to manage and protect highly classified mission data, capabilities, and Special Access Programs (SAP). In an environment where technology research, development, testing and evaluation (RDT&E) and advanced planning are constantly targeted by near-peer adversaries, robust program planning and security is the foundation of our success.
The ideal candidate will go beyond standard compliance checklists to provide holistic, operational security support. You will be responsible for the daily execution of all security disciplines, including Personnel Security (PERSEC), and Information Security (INFOSEC), operational security (OPSEC) and technology protection-ensuring that programmatic implementation, technology development operational planning, Special Technical Operations (STO), and advanced research activities remain secure from insider and external threats.
Key Responsibilities:
SAP & SCI Management:
  • Administer the routine day-to-day security execution of Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Programs (SAP) in accordance with DoD Manuals (DoDM 5205.07 Vols 1-4) and Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs).

Personnel Security (PERSEC):
  • Manage the clearance lifecycle for program personnel. Process PARs (Program Access Requests), conduct pre-screenings, manage read-ins/read-outs, and administer the continuous evaluation and insider threat programs.

InformationSecurity(INFOSEC):
  • Develop, maintain, and enforce Security Classification Guides (SCGs) and Program Protection Plans (PPPs). Ensure the proper marking, storage, transmission, and destruction of highly classified materials.

Security Integration:
  • Work directly with the OPSEC SME, Counterintelligence liaisons, anti-tamper SMEs, and System Security Engineers (ISSO/ISSM) to ensure program security requirements are deeply integrated into technology roadmaps, program protection planning and IT, environment and ecosystem architectures.

Audits & Inspections:
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for government security audits and inspections (e.g., Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) or sponsor-level assessments). Conduct internal self-inspections to ensure total compliance

Basic Qualifications:
Clearance:
  • Active Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) with government reserving the right to polygraph. After hiring, must be assessed for SAPs access.

Experience:
  • 10-15+ years of direct experience in industrial, DoD, or IC security, acting as a Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO), Program Security Officer (PSO), or Contractor Special Security Officer (CSSO).

Regulatory Expertise:
  • Master-level understanding of the NISPOM (32 CFR Part 117), DoDM 5205.07 Volumes 1-4, and ICDs (specifically 704, 705, and standard INFOSEC directives).

Systems Proficiency:
  • Experience with government security systems of record, such as DISS (Defense Information System for Security), JADE, or scattered castles.

Education:
  • Master's Degree desired but bachelor's will suffice.

Highly Desired Qualifications:
STO / IO Experience:
  • Previous experience providing security support specifically to Special Technical Operations (STO), Information Operations (IO), or Offensive Cyber programs.

Certifications:
  • CDSE (Center for Development of Security Excellence) certifications such as the Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC), Special Program Security Certification (SPSC), or Physical Security Certification (PSC).

Insider Threat Operations:
  • Training or experience managing specialized Insider Threat mitigation programs for highly cleared populations.

Our Equal Employment Opportunity Policy
The company is an equal opportunity employer. The company shall not discriminate against any employee or applicant because of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity (except where gender is a bona fide occupational qualification), national origin or ancestry, age, disability, citizenship, military/veteran status, marital status, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. We are committed to equal employment opportunity in all decisions related to employment, promotion, wages, benefits, and all other privileges, terms, and conditions of employment.
The company is dedicated to seeking all qualified applicants. If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply for a position on our website, please get in touch with Heaven Wood via e-mail at accommodations@koniag-gs.com or by calling 703-488-9377 to request accommodations.
Koniag Government Services (KGS) is an Alaska Native Owned corporation supporting the values and traditions of our native communities through an agile employee and corporate culture that delivers Enterprise Solutions, Professional Services and Operational Management to Federal Government Agencies. As a wholly owned subsidiary of Koniag, we apply our proven commercial solutions to a deep knowledge of Defense and Civilian missions to provide forward leaning technical, professional, and operational solutions. KGS enables successful mission outcomes for our customers through solution-oriented business partnerships and a commitment to exceptional service delivery. We ensure long-term success with a continuous improvement approach while balancing the collective interests of our customers, employees, and native communities. For more information, please visit www.koniag-gs.com.
Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. Shareholder Preference in accordance with Public Law 88-352

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About Koniag

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Investment management and consulting services

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Kodiak, AK, US

Year founded

1972

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