Network Security Engineer

Job Description

The Office of Export and Secure Research Compliance (OESRC) is seeking a skilled Network Security Engineer to manage information technology and security administration for classified systems at Virginia Tech. OESRC operates within the Division of Scholarly Integrity & Research Compliance (SIRC), who is responsible for managing the research compliance functions for the Office for Research and Innovation (ORI).

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in systems and network administration, particularly in designing, installing, configuring, and maintaining information systems that support classified research and operations. Expertise in managing Windows domain environments, network infrastructure, and accreditation processes for classified information systems is essential. The candidate should also have a deep understanding of operating systems (Windows and Linux), Active Directory domains, and network security protocols to maintain and support such systems. The candidate should be highly motivated and a proactive self-starter with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining focus and attention to detail. Additionally, the candidate should possess the ability to work both independently and as part of a team, demonstrating initiative and autonomy in the execution of assigned duties.

Familiarity with the Risk Management Framework (RMF) and NIST 800-53 controls is crucial, as the candidate will be responsible for managing security risks and ensuring compliance with all regulatory standards. The Network Security Engineer will oversee the accreditation of classified information systems, ensuring they meet security standards and requirements set by government regulations.

As part of this role, the candidate will be expected to stay current with technical advancements and applicable government regulations, such as the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) and Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs). The Network Security Engineer will also be responsible for providing training and technical guidance to project personnel during system setups, ensuring all security protocols are strictly adhered to.
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Primary Duties:

• Provide direct services to users for all aspects of information systems and network operations, including the setup and accreditation of classified information systems, continuous monitoring, and enhanced security safeguards. This includes instructional training for system users, disaster recovery procedures, cyber incident investigation and reporting, and the proper disposition of materials/data at the completion of a project.
• Support multiple sites on and off-campus, offering comprehensive services such as system maintenance, training, inventory control, and the analysis of current and future security technology needs to ensure continuous compliance and performance improvements.
•Develop, implement, and maintain university policies and procedures to ensure all supported users comply with applicable safeguarding policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements, including those for classified information systems.
• Lead and manage projects from initiation through completion, making strategic decisions and exercising discretion. These projects may range from moderately complex to highly technical, often involving multiple departments. The role will require close collaboration with the Vice President for Research and Innovation, the Information Technology Security Office (ITSO), Network Infrastructure Services , department IT staff, the Contractor Special Security Officer (CSSO), and the Facility Security Officer (FSO). The objective is to develop and enforce comprehensive policy guidelines and procedures for both unclassified and classified information systems, ensuring compliance with government regulations and sponsor-specific rules.
• Adhere to and ensure compliance with government regulations, such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Special Publication 800 series, Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) 189 and 200, NISPOM, Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs), and other applicable Department of Defense publications and industry best practices.

This position reports to the Associate Director, Research Security Program with other duties as assigned.

Offer of employment may require prior approval from the granting agency. Emergency Personnel - facility security related. This position is considered emergency personnel and must be able to respond timely to emergencies within 60 minutes during evenings and weekends as needed. Must have a criminal background check, and a driver’s license check. The offer of employment is contingent upon the successful candidates’ ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance and accesses (TS/SCI).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology, Information Security, Computer Science, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience and certifications.
• Restricted to US Citizens due to access to sensitive information.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance.
• Proven expertise in multi-platform computing infrastructure, including networking, security, backup services, and user support, with significant experience administering systems using Windows operating systems.
• In-depth knowledge of network architecture, network hardware, monitoring and management software, network protocols, routing, switches, firewalls, web filters, and network security methodologies.
• Demonstrated experience with network and system monitoring, data forensics, and data recovery, particularly for classified systems.
• Hands-on experience with system deployment tools, Windows client-server environments, and hardware maintenance.
• Current eligibility to obtain and maintain a security clearance (TS/SCI) required for this role.
• Strong communication abilities to provide customer service and coordinate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Solid understanding of computer security concepts and best practices, particularly in safeguarding classified information systems.
• Proven experience in integrating, installing, configuring, and supporting customized IT systems while ensuring their compliance with security regulations.
• Strong troubleshooting skills, with the ability to diagnose and resolve IT issues for both technical and non-technical users.
• Ability to lift and handle computer equipment and supplies, and work in confined spaces such as under desks. Ability to lift and move equipment over 25lbs.
• Experience working with government or industrial security databases such as eMass, Xacta, DIAS, and similar systems.
• Demonstrated experience in developing policies, procedures, documentation, and training resources for system users and end-users.
• Knowledge of NIST Special Publication 800 series, FIPS 189 and 200, NISPOM, ICDs, and other relevant Department of Defense publications.
• Proven ability to manage projects with a focus on IT budgeting, lifecycle analysis, and compliance with federal regulations.

Preferred Qualifications

• Current field-relevant certifications for IAT Level I, such as A+, Network+, etc.
• Current field-specific professional certifications for IAT Level II, such as Security+, GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC), etc.
• Experience providing IT services at an accredited institution of higher learning, particularly with classified systems.
• Previous or current security clearance at Top Secret level, with SCI access debriefed within the past year.

Appointment Type

Regular

Salary Information

Starting at $100,000; commensurate with experience

Review Date

March 27, 2025

Additional Information

Emergency Personnel - facility security related. This position is considered emergency personnel and must be able to respond timely to emergencies within 60 minutes during evenings and weekends as needed. The offer of employment is contingent upon the successful candidates’ ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance and accesses (TS/SCI).

The successful candidate will be required to have a criminal conviction check and safe driving check.

About Virginia Tech

Dedicated to its motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve), Virginia Tech pushes the boundaries of knowledge by taking a hands-on, transdisciplinary approach to preparing scholars to be leaders and problem-solvers. A comprehensive land-grant institution that enhances the quality of life in Virginia and throughout the world, Virginia Tech is an inclusive community dedicated to knowledge, discovery, and creativity. The university offers more than 280 majors to a diverse enrollment of more than 36,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students in eight undergraduate colleges, a school of medicine, a veterinary medicine college, Graduate School, and Honors College. The university has a significant presence across Virginia, including the Innovation Campus in Northern Virginia; the Health Sciences and Technology Campus in Roanoke; sites in Newport News and Richmond; and numerous Extension offices and research centers. A leading global research institution, Virginia Tech conducts more than $500 million in research annually.

Virginia Tech endorses and encourages participation in professional development opportunities and university shared governance.  These valuable contributions to university shared governance provide important representation and perspective, along with opportunities for unique and impactful professional development.

Virginia Tech does not discriminate against employees, students, or applicants on the basis of age, color, disability, sex (including pregnancy), gender, gender identity, gender expression, genetic information, ethnicity or national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, or military status, or otherwise discriminate against employees or applicants who inquire about, discuss, or disclose their compensation or the compensation of other employees or applicants, or on any other basis protected by law.

If you are an individual with a disability and desire an accommodation, please contact Kaitlin Winfree at kaitnw@vt.edu during regular business hours at least 10 business days prior to the event.