CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER

About the role

Under administrative direction, responsible for the strategy, governance, and operational management of information and cyber security to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of Washoe County services and data; provides direct oversight for Washoe County’s enterprise-wide information security program; and performs related work as required.

Responsibilities

• Leads the cybersecurity strategy supporting Washoe County’s ambitious technology plan to modernize technology, strengthen cybersecurity, improve digital services, and enhance the delivery of public services.
• Serves as the County's principal cybersecurity advisor and is responsible for establishing and maturing the County's enterprise information security program.
• Provides strategic direction for cybersecurity governance, risk management, security operations, regulatory compliance, incident response, and security architecture across a diverse and decentralized technology environment.
• Embeds cybersecurity into business operations while enabling innovation, operational excellence, and the reliable delivery of County services.
• Operates within a governance model that ensures cybersecurity remains both a strategic business enabler and an enterprise risk management function.
• Works collaboratively with Technology Services and departmental leaders to implement secure, resilient, and modern technology solutions.

Requirements

• Eight years of full-time experience in information security and technology infrastructure AND a bachelor’s degree in information security, computer science, information systems, or a closely related field; OR an equivalent combination of training and experience.
• A valid driver's license is required at the time of appointment and must be maintained for continued employment in this classification.

Qualifications

• Professional credibility and an ongoing commitment to professional development are key requirements for this position.
• The following certifications are highly desirable: Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC), Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP).

Skills

• Strategic vision with deep technical expertise.
• Collaborative leadership.
• Effective communication.
• Hands-on practitioner who inspires confidence.
• Builds trust and influences outcomes.
• Collaborates effectively with various stakeholders.
• Deep technical expertise across modern cybersecurity disciplines.
• Translates complex technical risks into clear, actionable business decisions.

Benefits

Not specified.

Pay

Not specified.

Schedule

Not specified.

Conditions of Employment

• Background checks will be conducted on selected applicants through the State of Nevada and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
• New and rehired employees are required to submit to a fingerprint based background investigation.
• Effective January 1, 2025, the $39.00 fee associated with this background investigation will be paid by the employee (if applicable) and deducted automatically from the first paycheck.
• Employment is contingent upon the results of the background check, although a record of conviction will not necessarily bar an applicant from employment.
• Washoe County requires its employees to reside in the state of Nevada or neighboring California communities such as Truckee, South Lake Tahoe or Susanville as of their first day of work.
• Washoe County hires all new employees at the minimum rate of the salary range and eligible employees may receive an annual merit increase of 5% until they reach the maximum salary for the classification.
• Upon promotion, current Washoe County employees are placed at the minimum rate of the salary range for the higher classification of the new position OR a promotional calculation, whichever is greater.