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Security Cooperation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Security Cooperation Advisor

Aiea, HI · On-site

$105K - $153K/yr

SMX is seeking a Security Cooperation Advisor to contribute to defense modernization and allied interoperability efforts across INDOPACOM. This position supports the development and implementation of ...

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Security Cooperation information

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$12

$18

$24

How much do security cooperation jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for security cooperation in the United States is $18.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is security cooperation?

Security cooperation refers to activities undertaken by governments, particularly defense and military organizations, to build relationships and enhance the capabilities of partner nations. These activities can include training, joint exercises, military sales, and information sharing to promote mutual security interests and regional stability. Security cooperation helps foster alliances, increase interoperability among forces, and address shared security challenges such as terrorism, transnational crime, and humanitarian crises.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Security Cooperation, and why are they important?

To excel in Security Cooperation, professionals typically need a solid background in international relations, defense policy, and cross-cultural communication, often supported by relevant degrees or military experience. Familiarity with tools like the Security Cooperation Information Portal (SCIP), foreign military sales (FMS) processes, and certifications such as the Defense Institute of Security Cooperation Studies (DISCS) are common requirements. Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and diplomatic acumen help build trust and effective partnerships with foreign counterparts. These abilities ensure successful collaboration, compliance with regulations, and the achievement of mutual security objectives.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in Security Cooperation roles?

Professionals in Security Cooperation often navigate complex, multi-national environments where aligning the priorities of different stakeholders—such as host nations, U.S. agencies, and allied partners—can be challenging. They must manage sensitive information, coordinate logistics for joint training or equipment transfers, and ensure compliance with evolving regulations and policies. Effective communication, cultural awareness, and adaptability are crucial, as daily responsibilities can shift rapidly based on global events or policy changes. Collaboration across military, diplomatic, and civilian sectors is frequent, requiring a proactive and solution-oriented mindset.

What is the difference between Security Cooperation vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity CooperationSecurity Analyst
Required credentialsOften requires security clearance, military or government certificationsTypically requires security clearance, cybersecurity or IT certifications
Work environmentGovernment agencies, defense contractors, international organizationsCorporate, government, or cybersecurity firms
Employer and industry usagePrimarily in defense, foreign policy, and international security sectorsIn cybersecurity, risk management, and information security sectors

Security Cooperation involves managing international security programs and collaborations, often within government or defense sectors. Security Analysts focus on protecting information systems and analyzing security threats within organizations. While both roles require security clearances and related certifications, Security Cooperation emphasizes diplomatic and strategic aspects, whereas Security Analysts concentrate on cybersecurity and threat mitigation.

More about Security Cooperation jobs
What cities are hiring for Security Cooperation jobs? Cities with the most Security Cooperation job openings:
What states have the most Security Cooperation jobs? States with the most job openings for Security Cooperation jobs include:
Infographic showing various Security Cooperation job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,415 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Security Cooperation Advisor

Security Cooperation Advisor

SMX

Aiea, HI • On-site

$105K - $153K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

SMX is seeking a Security Cooperation Advisor to contribute to defense modernization and allied interoperability efforts across INDOPACOM. This position supports the development and implementation of strategies that strengthen international partnerships and enhance network-enabled warfighting capabilities. The advisor will apply expertise in command, control, communications, and computer systems (C4) to develop and execute roadmaps that improve interoperability with partner and allied militaries. The role involves close coordination across multinational staffs, Joint and Combatant Commands, and Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition organizations to ensure communications and information systems are operationally ready whenever and wherever required. This position requires a strategic thinker who can build lasting professional relationships, manage complex projects, and align modernization efforts to meet mission objectives.
This position requires a current DoD Top Secret/SCI clearance which requires US citizenship for work on DoD contracts.
This position is onsite in Aiea, Hawaii.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
  • Develop, manage, and execute interoperability and modernization plans with allied defense partners.
  • Serve as liaison across U.S. and partner nation staffs to ensure alignment with DoD strategic objectives.
  • Coordinate with acquisition and program offices to enable secure, interoperable C4 capabilities.
  • Analyze systems and architectures to identify opportunities for enhanced connectivity and mission effectiveness.
  • Represent the organization at multinational forums, working groups, and planning events.

Required Skills & Experience
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in U.S. military C4 or network-enabled warfighting operations.
  • Minimum of 10 years of experience in security cooperation or foreign military engagement.
  • Minimum of 5 years of experience on a Joint, Combatant Command, or Component Command staff.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with senior leaders, technical experts, and international stakeholders.
  • Ability and willingness to travel up to 25%.
  • Active TS clearance w/SCI eligibility
  • Bachelor's degree.
  • Active passport with at least 6 months validity for visa and travel purposes.

Desired Skills & Experience
  • Experience with Program Executive Offices or the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
  • Familiarity with Command and Control (C2) structures and European theater operations.
  • Understanding of Combined and Joint All-Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) concepts.
  • Ability to interpret or design network architectures.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Master's degree preferred.
  • Project Management Professional (PMP), or Agile certification.

#CJPOST
The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.
The proposed salary for this position is:
$105,000-$153,000 USD
At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.
We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what's possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.
SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.
Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and/or education verification.
SMX does not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization or immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1 and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).