ISSE

Candidates must be U.S. citizens able to obtain and/or maintain a Department of Defense security clearance as a condition and continuation of employment.

Location: Dahlgren, VA — position is hybrid (3 days onsite)
Duration: Anticipated 6 month contract to hire opportunity
Salary: $55–67/hr — weekly pay on W2
Clearance: Qualified candidates should have an active DOD Top Secret clearance
Certifications: IAT II certification is required

Apex Systems is seeking an experienced Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) to support mission-critical Department of Defense programs in Dahlgren, VA. This role is responsible for developing, maintaining, and managing Risk Management Framework (RMF) Assessment and Authorization (A&A) packages while ensuring compliance with cybersecurity requirements and federal security standards. The ideal candidate will have experience supporting DoD environments, conducting security assessments, and working with system owners, engineers, and cybersecurity stakeholders throughout the RMF lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and manage RMF Assessment and Authorization (A&A) packages.
• Support the implementation and execution of the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF) process.
• Conduct security assessments to identify vulnerabilities, risks, and compliance gaps.
• Document assessment findings and provide recommendations for risk mitigation.
• Collaborate with engineers, system administrators, and stakeholders to ensure security controls are properly implemented and maintained.
• Support continuous monitoring activities and security compliance efforts.
• Assist with Interim Authority to Test (IATT) documentation and activities.
• Maintain security documentation, reports, and authorization artifacts.
• Stay current on cybersecurity regulations, emerging threats, and industry best practices.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• 3+ years of experience supporting RMF and Assessment & Authorization (A&A) activities.
• Strong knowledge of NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-37, and DoD cybersecurity requirements.
• Experience implementing and testing security controls.
• Experience conducting vulnerability assessments and security reviews.
• Experience with security assessment tools such as Nessus.
• Understanding of DoD cybersecurity compliance processes and system accreditation.
• Knowledge of RDT&E and/or tactical systems environments.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS).
• Experience managing DoD or Department of the Navy cybersecurity portfolios.
• Working knowledge of STIG Viewer, Vulnerability Remediation Asset Manager (VRAM), and Compliance Technical Orders (CTOs).
• Experience supporting Interim Authority to Test (IATT) efforts.

Required Certifications & Clearance

• Active Top Secret Security Clearance required.
• DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II certification required (Security+, CySA+, CCNA Security, GICSP, SSCP, or equivalent).

Why Apex Systems

Apex Systems connects top technology professionals with opportunities supporting critical national security missions. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, professional development opportunities, and the chance to work on impactful programs supporting the federal government.

Benefits

Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach.