Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO)

Applied Research Associates (ARA), Inc. has an immediate need for an experienced IT Professional to serve as an Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) for the Algorithms, Modeling and Assessments (AMA) division in Arlington, VA. The candidate will support multiple programs. The ISSO will coordinate with the Information System Security Manager (ISSM) for these Information Systems to ensure the Risk Management Framework (RMF) requirements are implemented, functional, and kept up to date according to System Security Plans, the DAAPM/NISPOM and applicable NIST Publications. In this position, the ISSO will build, configure, and maintain systems that adhere to government regulations. The responsibilities of this position does not allow for remote work.

What does an ISSO do at AMA?

• Maintains and monitors compliant information systems for use on government contracts.
• Executes the security testing and evaluation to ensure the correct implementation of security requirements.
• Executes security scanning and the analysis of the scan results.
• Maintain file servers, network access, document and analyze system anomalies to ensure optimum equipment performance.
• Prepares system for operational use and support operational tests Supports secure maintenance and continuous monitoring.
• Performs weekly system audits, media reviews, hardware/software configuration management.
• Provides technical support to users.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Minimum requirements needed to be an ISSO in AMA:

• U.S. citizenship is required and be eligible for a Secret Security Clearance based on a Tier 5 investigation.
• Bachelor’s with 2-4 years of related experience or a Master’s with 0-2 years of related experience or High School Diploma with 8-10 years of experience.
• Assist in ensuring compliance with the, DCSA Assessment and Authorization Process Manual (DAAPM), Department of Defense (DoD) regulations, Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs) and Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs).
• Assist the ISSM in conducting security briefings and trainings as needed.
• Assist the ISSM with preparation for Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) Security Vulnerability Assessments (SVA), Command Cyber Readiness Inspections (CCRI) and Other Government Agency (OGA) inspections.
• Have a strong understanding of computer operating systems (Windows and Linux), software and computer hardware.
• Have the ability to configure laptop/desktops/servers, install applications, setup network infrastructure and troubleshoot as required.
• Possess working knowledge of and experience with Cisco routers, firewalls and switches.
• Possess a DoD 8570 IAM-I level professional certification (i.e. Security +) or have the ability to obtain the certification within six (6) months of hire.

Information Systems Analyst Preferences:

• Highest degree of personal and professional integrity and ethics.
• Strong organizational and administrative skills.
• Proficient with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.
• Strong interpersonal skills working with all levels of staff and customers.
• Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment.
• Strong written and verbal communications skills.
• Maintain and adhere to a high level of confidentiality.
• Possess the ability to multitask, prioritize workload, and be flexible.
• Possess the ability to learn new systems and procedures quickly.
• Proficient in IA Security specifications such as Risk Management Framework (RMF) and NIST SP 800-53.
• Experience with security assessment/hardening tools, i.e. STIGs, SCAP, ACAS, etc.
• Security+ Certification.
• Cisco Certification.

Who is ARA?

Do you want to work for a purpose? Applied Research Associates, Inc. (aka ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company. We have been providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences since 1979. ARA has over 2,292 employee owners and continues to grow rapidly. Together, our offices throughout the U.S. and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.

ARA also prides itself on having a challenging culture where innovation & experimentation are the norm. We believe in the importance of open and honest communication as well as work/life balance. Employee ownership ensures you have a voice with what happens in the company. 

To find out more about what the Integrated Mission Systems Sector has to offer, visit our website at: https://www.ara.com/benefits/

                                     ARA is an EOE M/F/Disability/Veteran employer