Information System Security Officer (ISSO)

About the role

CGI Federal is building the next generation of VA's Medical Disability Examination (MDE) program, modernizing how exams are scheduled, performed, and delivered—bringing automation, secure data integration, and human‑centered design to a mission that impacts millions of Veterans. The Information System Security Officer (ISSO) serves as the dedicated security lead for the Contractor's system under the MDE contract, managing all activities required to achieve and maintain an Authority to Operate (ATO) with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The ISSO provides oversight of security controls, regulatory compliance, risk management, and protection of sensitive Veteran data, coordinating all ATO‑related tasks and serving as the primary point of contact with VA IT, security, and privacy teams.

Responsibilities

• ATO Management & Coordination
  • Lead, manage, and coordinate all elements of the VA ATO process, ensuring timely receipt and ongoing maintenance of an ATO for the Contractor's systems.
  • Maintain detailed schedules, track milestones, identify delays, report risks, and update baseline timelines as needed.
  • Manage required documentation, evidence collection, and review processes to support ATO readiness.
  • Serve as the primary liaison with VA security stakeholders, ensuring transparency and accuracy of all security‑related information.
• Security Controls Implementation & Maintenance
  • Ensure all VA‑required IT security controls are implemented, monitored, and maintained on the Contractor's systems in alignment with VA policies, standards, and security frameworks.
  • Coordinate and oversee all IT security activities, including vulnerability management, incident reporting, risk assessments, and compliance tasks.
  • Ensure protection of all Claimant personal, health, and benefits‑related data across Contractor interfaces with VA systems.
• VA Security Engagement & Collaboration
  • Hold and maintain a PIV badge and VA email account to support daily ISSO responsibilities within VA systems and applications.
  • Designate and mentor a backup Security Point of Contact (POC) with PIV credentials to ensure security coverage during ISSO absence.
  • Act as the principal point of contact for VA ISO, System Stewards, CORs, Privacy Officers, and ISSOs for all security and ATO‑related matters.
  • Collaborate closely with the Contractor's internal IT teams to meet VA security and compliance requirements.
• Operational Duties & Security Governance
  • Coordinate access to VA security‑related tools and platforms.
  • Ensure all information security evidence is complete, accurate, and less than one year old.
  • Respond to VA security and privacy data calls in a timely and accurate manner.
  • Review security questionnaires regularly to ensure alignment with current system status and control requirements.
  • Review Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) systems (e.g., eMASS) when system changes occur and execute plans to update ATO documentation.
  • Coordinate all required security scans with the VA Cyber Security Operations Center (CSOC).
  • Support VA Security Control Assessments (SCAs) and remediation activities.
  • Lead Contractor response and management of information security incidents related to VA systems or data.
  • Notify and communicate status updates to VA ISO, System Stewards, CORs, Privacy Officers, and ISSOs regarding any potential security or privacy incidents.
• Compliance & System Integrity
  • Maintain Contractor database integrity, access controls, and data protection measures in accordance with the PWS, Section 9 (Applicable VA IT Systems) and Section 10 (Security).
  • Monitor compliance with all federal, VA, and contract‑specific cybersecurity requirements.
  • Lead continuous improvement efforts to strengthen system security posture.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or advanced degree in information security, IT, cybersecurity, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in information security management, IT regulatory compliance, or equivalent federal security roles.
• Demonstrated experience in federal ATO processes (preferably VA).
• Strong understanding of NIST 800‑53, FISMA requirements, and federal risk management frameworks.
• Experience working with GRC tools (e.g., eMASS) and coordinating with federal cybersecurity organizations.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a VA PIV badge.

Desired Qualifications

• Experience supporting VA programs, systems, or data environments.
• Strong communication, documentation, and stakeholder coordination skills.
• Analytical expertise in risk identification, mitigation, and compliance reporting.

Pay

A reasonable estimate of the current compensation range for this role in the U.S. is $100,800.00 – $245,500.00. CGI typically does not hire individuals at or near the top of the range for their role; compensation decisions depend on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive insurance options
• Matching contributions through the 401(k) plan and the share purchase plan
• Paid time off for vacation, holidays, and sick time
• Paid parental leave
• Learning opportunities and tuition assistance
• Wellness and Well‑being programs