ISSO IT Systems Engineer

Arlington, Virginia

Job TypeDirect Hire

Confidential Opportunity

ISSO IT Systems Engineer

ISSO IT Systems Engineer opportunity in Arlington, Virginia, with a confidential employer offers unparalleled access to national security programs. This role is built for a seasoned security professional who wants to lead classified information security and shape the future of defense research.

Role Snapshot

CompanyConfidential Employer

LocationArlington, Virginia, USA

IndustryDefense

CompensationDOE

Employment TypeFull Time/Direct Hire

Remote StatusNo Remote

Total Openings1

Opportunity

Step into a role where your expertise directly supports the nation’s most sensitive research initiatives. As the Classified Information Security Lead, you will be the linchpin of a secure campus environment, ensuring that groundbreaking work can proceed without compromise. This is not just another IT job—it’s a chance to embed yourself in the heart of the defense ecosystem, working with cutting-edge technologies and classified systems that few ever see.

Your day-to-day will span the full spectrum of cybersecurity governance: from crafting policy aligned with NIST and CMMC frameworks to hands-on troubleshooting of classified networks. You will be the go-to expert for maintaining the integrity of Secret and Top Secret information, and your decisions will directly impact the success of government-sponsored research. By bridging IT operations and security compliance, you enable scientists and engineers to innovate safely within strict regulatory boundaries.

We are looking for a security professional who already lives and breathes the classified environment. You hold an active TS/SSBI/SCI clearance, possess a CISSP or equivalent certification, and have deep familiarity with DFARS, NIST 800-53, and NIST 800-171. Beyond the checkboxes, you bring a proactive mindset—anticipating threats, mentoring colleagues, and communicating complex security concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. Your background in higher education or research settings is a strong plus, but your dedication to mission success is what truly sets you apart.

This is your opportunity to take ownership of a high-stakes security program at a pivotal moment. The work is challenging, the expectations are high, and the rewards—both tangible and intangible—are substantial. If you’re ready to step into a role where your skills safeguard critical national interests, we want to hear from you. Apply today to start a conversation about how you can make an impact in Arlington, VA.

Non-Negotiables

Candidates must hold an active Top Secret/SSBI/SCI security clearance
Expert-level knowledge of national security frameworks like CMMC, NIST 800-171, and NIST 800-53 is essential
Demonstrated ISSO experience in classified environments is mandatory
A CISSP or equivalent security certification is a must-have
Availability for on-call and after-hours emergency support is required
Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential

What's In It For You

Your compensation will be structured to reflect your critical contributions to classified programs
You will have the chance to work on cutting-edge national security projects that shape the defense landscape
Comprehensive health coverage ensures you and your family stay protected
A robust retirement plan with employer matching helps you build a secure future
Continuous professional development opportunities keep your skills at the forefront of cybersecurity
The role offers the stability and resources of a premier research institution

Responsibilities

You will serve as the Classified Information Security Lead, managing and safeguarding classified information at the Secret and Top Secret levels
Partner with senior leadership to align technology, cybersecurity, and operations with research goals and classified processing requirements
Establish and maintain security policies and procedures, ensuring compliance with CMMC, NIST 800-171, NIST 800-53, and DFARS
Coordinate with sponsors to create and manage unclassified DoD enterprise accounts and enforce DoD security protocols
Install, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot classified IT systems and infrastructure
Support day-to-day management of Arlington campus infrastructure, including servers, networks, email, and data centers
Maintain security documentation and ensure institutional and contractual compliance

Preferred Qualifications

A bachelor’s degree in Information Science, Computer Science, or a related field is preferred, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
A CISSP or equivalent security certification is required
Experience supporting higher education or research-focused environments is a plus
Hands-on experience with CMMC, NIST 800-171, and/or NIST 800-53 is highly valued
Familiarity with personnel and facilities security processes adds strength to your application
The ideal candidate demonstrates proactive problem-solving and the ability to mentor team members

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ISSO IT Systems Engineer

Role Snapshot

Opportunity

Non-Negotiables

What's In It For You

Responsibilities

Preferred Qualifications

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