Independent Software

IT Security Specialist, Level 3 (FORECASTED)

Information Assurance - Fort Meade, MD - Full Time

What You Will Do

At Independent Software, we believe national security and cutting-edge innovation go hand in hand. As a Level 3 IT Security Specialist, you’ll play a critical role in protecting some of the government’s most sensitive information systems. You’ll lead initiatives to secure mission-critical environments, work closely with ISSOs and system owners, and provide guidance across the entire security lifecycle. Here, you’ll be part of a team that values trust, deep expertise, and continuous learning—while supporting programs of real national importance.

In this role, you will support the planning, coordination, and implementation of enterprise-wide cybersecurity strategies. You’ll evaluate current security infrastructure, define future program requirements, and guide the implementation of high-security IT systems. The role calls for strong leadership, expert-level technical skills, and the ability to oversee daily security operations across programs.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Maintain the operational cybersecurity posture for systems, programs, and enclaves in support of the ISSM
  • Provide technical support on all matters involving the security of the information system
  • Develop and update system security plans; manage and assess the impact of changes to the system
  • Assist with configuration management of security-relevant system software, hardware, and firmware
  • Implement and enforce information systems security policies, standards, and methodologies
  • Coordinate and implement IT security programs and ensure compliance with applicable frameworks
  • Provide daily oversight and direction to ISSOs
  • Support organizational information assurance programs including compliance, reporting, and risk mitigation
  • Participate in the development and enforcement of the system security policy
  • Ensure systems provide high levels of data security and user compartmentalization

Required Skills and Qualifications:
  • Deep understanding of information system security principles, techniques, and tools
  • Experience supporting or leading cybersecurity compliance efforts (e.g., RMF, NIST)
  • Familiarity with system change management, vulnerability management, and system auditing
  • Experience working with government cybersecurity policies, including DoD and IC frameworks
  • Ability to lead and mentor junior security staff (e.g., ISSOs)

Education and Experience:
  • Twelve (12) years of related work experience in security authorization is required
  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology Engineering, or a related technical field from an accredited college or university
  • In lieu of a bachelor’s degree, an additional four (4) years of IT security experience (for a total of 16 years) may be substituted
  • Experience must include: security tools, hardware/software security implementation, communication protocols, encryption, commercial security products, security incident response, PKI, and authorization services

Certifications:  
  • Candidate must meet IAM Level II or  III certification requirements

Clearance Requirement:
  • Must possess an active TS/SCI with appropriate Polygraph to be considered for this role
 
**This position is contingent on contract award**

We’re an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status.
 
Apply: IT Security Specialist, Level 3 (FORECASTED)
* Required fields
First name*
Last name*
Email address*
Location *
Phone number*
Resume*

Attach resume or Paste resume

Attach resume as .pdf, .doc, .docx, .odt, .txt, or .rtf (limit 5MB) or paste resume

Paste your resume here or attach resume file

Cover Letter
Who referred you to this position? Enter their first and last name here.
What’s your citizenship / employment eligibility?*
What’s your highest level of education completed?*
College or University
LinkedInLinkedIn profile URL:
Desired salary
Earliest start date?
Do you possess an active and current TS/ SCI clearance?*
Do you possess an active and current Polygraph?*
If yes, what agency conducted the polygraph?*
How many years of relevant experience do you have?*
Do you have a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, IT Engineering, or a related technical field?*
Have you previously supported the development or maintenance of a System Security Plan (SSP)?*
Which of the following areas do you have hands-on experience with? (Select all that apply)*
Are you currently DoD 8570 compliant at IAM Level II or III?*
If you answered yes, please list any valid certifications you currently hold.*
Have you worked directly with ISSMs, DAOs, or Security Control Assessors in a professional setting?*
Are you familiar with the Risk Management Framework (RMF) process?*
Have you provided direct oversight or mentorship to ISSOs in a prior role?*
Do you have experience managing or assessing the security impact of changes to IT systems?*
Do you have experience planning, coordinating, or implementing IT security programs and policies for a program, system, or organization?*
Human Check*