Information Systems Security Engineer (Hybrid) chez Northstrat

Northstrat is seeking an experienced and driven Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE). The candidate will perform system or network designs that encompass multiple enclaves, to include those with differing data protection/classification requirements. The candidate should understand distributed architectures and cloud-based systems for big data applications. Must be local to Columbia, MD or Northern Virginia.

The ideal candidates shall possess a specific skill set beyond traditional compliance:

Technical Understanding:

• Candidates must be able to thoroughly understand how a system works from a technical perspective, rather than just a compliance-oriented one.

Effective Communication:

• They should be able to clearly relay this technical understanding to a less technical audience (e.g., other traditional RMF roles).

• We are not looking for compliance-only ISSEs for our current roles.

Addressing Current Challenges

We often need to deploy highly technical resources for routine security engineering activities to help build the Body of Evidence (BOE) and defend the security posture of the data systems we build and manage for the Government. Our goal is to:

• Reduce our reliance on these highly technical personnel for routine tasks.

• Utilize them more effectively for their intended purpose: Subject Matter Expert (SME) support.
• Will create, review and edit authorization documentation for completeness and accuracy in accordance with federal and DoD policy.
• Thoroughly understand and be able to implement DoD RMF system accreditation processes.
• Assess use case and operational risk of integrated open source, and GOTS/COTS software components.
• Will use vulnerability management systems, automated security scanning tools, and system accreditation record systems.
• Must be able to grasp new concepts, facilitate information exchanges for data gathering, and collaborate with diverse audiences.
• Will follow established processes where applicable and establish and execute defensible processes where none are prescribed.
• Provide security planning, assessment, risk analysis, and risk management support.
• Recommend system-level solutions to resolve security requirements and guide the development team in meeting the security posture requirements.
• Support the Government in the enforcement of the design and implementation of trusted relationships among external systems and architectures.
• Must apply existing knowledge of IA policy, procedures, and workforce structure to design, develop, and implement secure networking, computing, and enclave environments.
• Must be able to interact well with others to complete work.
• Technical proficiency across technologies is paramount.

Requirements

• Must have a current TS/SCI level U.S. Government clearance is required and therefore all candidates must be a U.S. Citizen.

• At least 9+ years of experience as an ISSE with large multi-tiered programs and Bachelors in related field; OR 7 years relevant experience with Masters in related field; OR High School Diploma or equivalent and 13 years relevant experience.

• Experience implementing DoD system accreditation processes (DIACAP acceptable and RMF preferred).

• A working knowledge of TCP/IP suite of protocols and services, computer architectures, and network topologies is required.

• A DoD 8570 compliance with IAT Level II (SSCP, Security+, CCNA-Security, or GSEC certification) is required

• Experience with DISA STIGs and SRGs, vulnerability management systems, mitigation and compliance processes, and reviewing results from automated security scanning tools.

• The ability to work independently and as part of a team is needed.

• Flexibility is essential to adapt to schedule changes as needed.

Desired Skills:

• CISSP-ISSEP is highly desired

Benefits

Work/Life Balance

Northstrat values true work life balance. We offer power of choice benefits designed to best meet the needs of you and your lifestyle. Our benefits programs are designed to support and encourage wellness, healthy living, retirement investment, and lifetime learning.

Pay Range

There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. We also offer competitive compensation, benefits, and professional development opportunities. Please refer to our Benefits section for additional details.  

Flex Time

Northstrat does not mandate specific working hours. Although project requirements may dictate schedules, a Northstrat employee is only required to work an average of 8 hours per weekday over the course of a month. For example: John worked 12 hours on June 1st to meet a project deadline. On June 15th, John only worked 4 hours because he left early for a long weekend. John’s IBA was not debited for time off because flex time allowed him to carry over those 4 hours from June 1st.

Individual Benefits Account (IBA)

To attract and retain the highest quality staff, Northstrat provides a unique and versatile benefits package, the Individual Benefit Account (IBA), which places the power of choice in the hands of our greatest asset – the employee.

The purpose of the IBA is to provide attractive benefits to all full-time employees of Northstrat on a flexible basis that enables each covered employee to select a package that best suits his or her needs. Whether those needs are paid time off, medical expenses, prescription drug expenses, cash disbursement, or a combination of any of these, the IBA provides flexibility to help you meet your specific goals. The IBA can be used for such things as:

IBA Benefits accrue each month in the amount equivalent to 50% of the employee’s monthly compensation rate. That is, the effective dollar amount of this accrual is in addition to an employee’s salary.

Profit Sharing Plan (PSP)

The PSP is a qualified retirement plan that Northstrat funds quarterly on the employee’s behalf through the IBA in the amount equivalent to 25% (up to the IRS contribution limit) of the employee’s compensation. That is, of the 50% accrual in the IBA, half of the amount accrued is applied to the PSP.

Stock Options

Because Northstrat is an employee-owned company, all new employees are offered stock options. Employees have the opportunity to receive additional stock options based on accomplishment of individual performance goals. Stock owners elect the Board of Directors and are directly impacted by the success of the company.

Lifelong Learning

Our culture promotes and nurtures a growth environment. We hire and scale rapidly to meet the needs of our partner customers. Through periodic company sponsored training events, and the ability to use IBA funds for reimbursement of work-related education expenses you will have the opportunity to continually grow your skills and abilities.

Join Our Talented Team

We hire the BEST employees and value each one. Since 2021, The Washington Post has recognized Northstrat among its "Top Workplaces". We think that your friends and family will like it here too, so we offer employee referral incentives.

Northstrat is an Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status or other legally protected status.