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Security Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

ARMADA is seeking a knowledgeable Security Specialist to support the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Program Support Center (PSC), Real Estate, Logistics, and Operations (RLO), Intake ...

Security Specialist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$160/hr

Security Specialist ***As required by our governmental client, this position requires being a U.S. Citizen AND an active TS/SCI clearance*** As our Security Specialist, you'll support the security ...

Security Specialist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$160 - $175/hr

As our Security Specialist, you'll support the security, assessment, and authorization of enterprise cloud environments that power mission-critical operations in a regulated federal environment. You ...

Security Specialist

Alexandria, VA ยท On-site

$70 - $90/hr

Security Specialist Full Time Alexandria, VA, US Position Summary The Security Specialist is responsible for providing technical support in development, implementation, and monitoring of the program ...

Security Specialist

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$120 - $150/hr

The security specialist will apply knowledge and experience from multiple security disciplines to include but not limited to, general security, personnel security, industrial security, information ...

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Security Specialist information

See Reston, VA salary details

$33.3K

$83.2K

$140K

How much do security specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for security specialist in Reston, VA is $83,181.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $56,000.00 and $105,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a security specialist?

A security specialist helps to protect valuable assets for a private client, corporation, or government entity. They can also be a personal security specialist or bodyguard. As a security specialist, you undergo a wide range of training, including criminal law, self-defense, situational awareness, computer security, and other disciplines specific to your field. Different types of security specialists require special qualifications that you should acquire. Some states require you to maintain regular certification to act as a licensed security specialist, especially as a bodyguard.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a security specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Security Specialist, you need a solid understanding of physical and information security protocols, risk assessment, and often a relevant degree or industry certifications such as CISSP or CompTIA Security+. Familiarity with security systems, intrusion detection tools, and incident response platforms is typically required. Excellent analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, and clear communication help Security Specialists excel in identifying threats and coordinating responses. These skills and qualifications are vital for proactively protecting organizational assets and ensuring a secure environment.

What are some common challenges security specialists face when balancing proactive threat prevention with daily operational duties?

Security Specialists often juggle the dual responsibilities of actively monitoring systems for emerging threats while also handling routine tasks like access management and compliance documentation. A common challenge is prioritizing urgent security incidents over scheduled maintenance, which requires strong time management and adaptability. Additionally, staying current with rapidly evolving threat landscapes demands continuous learning and collaboration with IT and business teams to implement effective safeguards without disrupting daily operations.

What is the difference between Security Specialist vs Security Analyst?

AspectSecurity SpecialistSecurity Analyst
CertificationsCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEHCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CEH
Work EnvironmentHands-on security implementation, system monitoringSecurity monitoring, incident analysis, reporting
Employer & Industry UsageIT firms, cybersecurity companies, corporate security teamsIT departments, cybersecurity firms, government agencies

Security Specialists focus on implementing and maintaining security measures, while Security Analysts primarily monitor systems and analyze security incidents. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments, but their core responsibilities differ in scope and daily tasks.

How much do security specialists make in the US?

Security specialists in the US typically earn a median annual salary of around $60,000 to $80,000, depending on experience, certifications, and location. Salaries can range higher for those with advanced skills, security clearances, or specialized expertise in areas like cybersecurity or physical security management.

What are the most commonly searched types of Security Specialist jobs in Reston, VA?

The most popular types of Security Specialist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What are popular job titles related to Security Specialist jobs in Reston, VA?

For Security Specialist jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Security Specialist jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Security Specialist jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Security Specialist jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Security Specialist job openings:

Infographic showing various Security Specialist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $82,035 per year, or $39.4 per hour.

Security Specialist

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

Armada Ltd
Insurance Servicesย โ€ขย 51 - 200 employees

Full-time

Re-posted 9 hours ago


Job description

Type: Full TimeLocation: Rockville, MD (National Capital Region)Overtime Exempt: NoReports to: ARMADA HQSecurity Clearance Required: Tier 4 Public TrustActual place of performance is to be determined by the Government; however, work is anticipated to be performed within the National Capital Region (NCR).*****************CONTINGENT UPON AWARD****************************ARMADA is seeking a knowledgeable Security Specialist to support the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Program Support Center (PSC), Real Estate, Logistics, and Operations (RLO), Intake, Suitability, and Badging Services (ISBS). This position supports the day-to-day operations of the Personnel Security Program by processing personnel security actions, initiating and reviewing background investigations, maintaining personnel security records, and ensuring compliance with applicable federal regulations, policies, and procedures governing personnel security, suitability, and credentialing activities.Duties & Responsibilities:The Security Specialist will support the day-to-day responsibilities of the Personnel Security Program, ensuring the program meets legal and regulatory requirements. Utilize the NP2 Portal Components and/or NBIS and HHS PSC specific databases for the lifecycle processing of security, suitability, and credentialing activities that are not inherently governmental. The Security Specialist will serve as a liaison with local agencies (police, criminal investigators, etc.) and other external offices on matters related to the processing of records checks and higher-level background investigations. Use the Position Designation Tool (PDT) to determine appropriate risk levels for position descriptions and ensure accurate data entry for human resources (HR) systems when needed. The Security Specialist will initiate and review eApp of both federal and contract employees who require background investigations for employment checks, renewing a security investigation, or determining clearance eligibility. Review applicant completed eApp and other related and necessary forms for the initiation of background investigations. Ensure all investigations are initiated for the correct level of investigation per the position description. Assist applicants with corrective action concerning completion/submission of personnel security documents. The Security Specialist will assist customers with eApp submissions, perform applicable entries into the ISBS personnel security database, and perform other clerical duties as required. Track personnel security documents to ensure accurate processing. Mail documents and perform basic customer service administrative functions when applicable. Contribute creative ideas and actively participate in team meetings to add value to the team's services. Demonstrate knowledge of personnel security concepts, principles, and practices that provide the ability to independently and/or collaboratively review, analyze, and resolve problems. The Security Specialist will maintain all databases with all required dates and notes pertaining to eApp activities. Safeguard and protect all Personally Identifiable Information (PII) from unauthorized and/or unintended disclosure. Report weekly updates on workload to Government leads. Ensure compliance with Government regulations and policies for the protection of information. The scope extends to personnel clearance processes, facility clearances, classified information systems, reporting associated with Government industrial security requirements, responses to Government compliance assessments, and relevant security training and awareness activities. Use and demonstrate proficiency with CVS, NP2 Portal, SharePoint, Microsoft Office, Security Manager, ISMS, etc.eApp ProcessingThe Security Specialist will perform two hundred and twenty-five (225) or more eApp submissions reviews/releases per day.Perform one hundred and eighty to two hundred and twenty-five (180-225) or more eApp initiations per day.Ensure four thousand five hundred (4,500) or more releases to DCSA per month.Ensure applicants are initiated into eApp within two (2) days of request but not to exceed four (4) days of receipt/assignment.Customer ServiceThe Security Specialist will routinely respond to 800 or more customer requests within twenty-four (24) hours of initial contact at a minimum to confirm receipt of the request, while ensuring that the most accurate and complete information is communicated to the customer as it is available.Respond to all status inquiries and customer emails within twenty-four (24) hours of receipt.Other duties as assigned.Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):Ability to work effectively with Government leadership, technical personnel, and contractor staff. Strong written and verbal communication skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications. Minimum Education/Experience:Bachelor's Degree preferred, not required.Five (5) years of relevant experience managing programs and/or projectsPreferred Experience:Experience supporting a federal Personnel Security Program. Experience initiating and reviewing background investigations through NBIS and/or eApp. Experience processing HSPD-12 personnel security and credentialing actions. Experience using NP2 Portal, Security Manager (ISMS), CVS, SharePoint, and Position Designation Tool (PDT). Experience reviewing personnel security forms and initiating investigations with DCSA. Knowledge of personnel security, suitability, credentialing, and investigative processes. Experience safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII) and handling sensitive information. Experience providing customer support in a federal security environment. Applying: If you feel you have the knowledge, skills and abilities for this position visit our careers page at www.armadausa.com.Disclaimer:The above information has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work to be performed. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of the contractor assigned to this position.ARMADA provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, marital status, amnesty, or status as a covered veteran in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. ARMADA complies with applicable state and local laws governing non-discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including, but not limited to, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.Must be able to successfully pass a background check, and pre-employment drug testing.  Job offers are contingent upon results of background check and drug testing.