Junior Security Specialist Officer (SSO)

About the role

We are seeking a Junior Security Specialist Officer (SSO) for our on-site position in the Raleigh, NC office. The ideal candidate must possess an active Secret level security clearance, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret/SCI level clearance.

Responsibilities

• Interpret and enforce government policies and directives pertaining to security policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Aid in the initiation of security clearance investigations and reinvestigations for ARA Raleigh personnel using DISS and NBIS databases.
• Manage and control access to our Raleigh facilities and resources, ensuring only authorized personnel have appropriate access rights to Secure Spaces.
• Ensure physical security measures comply with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards.
• Provide security training and awareness programs for employees to help them recognize and respond to security threats.
• Maintain records and documentation related to security, including incident reports and security plans.
• Perform other duties as directed by the Facility Security Officer (FSO) and Senior SSO.

Requirements

• Active security clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret/SCI clearance within six months.
• Bachelor's degree with 0-2 years of work experience, or equivalent professional experience (at least 6 years) for talented candidates without a degree.
• Works on assignments requiring considerable judgment and initiative.
• Develops solutions to routine technical problems of limited scope following detailed instructions.
• Works under general supervision, providing solutions to technical problems of moderate scope/complexity.

Qualifications

• Working knowledge of U.S. Government security systems and databases, including DISS, NBIS, e-QIP, and NISS.
• General understanding of personnel security, physical security, information security, SCI security, controlled access areas, classified material handling, visit requests, access control, and security documentation requirements.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks, track suspense dates, maintain accurate records, and support day-to-day security operations in a fast-paced classified environment.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and SharePoint, with the ability to prepare reports, trackers, briefings, logs, and other security documentation.
• Professional demeanor with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate clearly and effectively, both verbally and in writing, with employees, leadership, government customers, and security stakeholders.
• Strong sense of personal motivation, initiative, and attention to detail, with the ability to learn new systems, follow established procedures, and adapt to changing security requirements.
• Ability to work under general supervision, identify routine security issues, elevate concerns when needed, and support corrective actions in accordance with applicable policies and procedures.

Desired Qualifications

• Special Security Officer Course.
• DoD 8570 IAM Level I professional certification, such as CompTIA Security+.
• Experience interfacing with DCSA and other government representatives.
• Experience collaborating with federal or government agencies as well as defense contractors.
• Working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program (NISPOM) and Department of Defense regulations.
• Knowledge of DCSA Assessment and Authorization Process Manual (DAAPM).
• Knowledge of Closed Area Standards and Intelligence Community Directive 705.
• Knowledge of the NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-57 and the NIST SP 800-171.
• Knowledge of DoD Manuals 5200.01 volumes 1-4, 5205.07, ICD 705.
• Experience with NISS, DISS, SWFT, ACCS, Access Commander, or other government applications.
• Experience with SharePoint.

About ARA

ARA is an employee-owned international research and engineering company founded in 1979. We provide technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. Our diverse portfolio includes defense, civil, and health technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. ARA is committed to fostering a challenging and innovative work environment where innovation and experimentation are encouraged. We are proud of our Women’s Initiative Network (WIN), which aims to motivate, support, and encourage professional career development for women. For more information about our company and opportunities, visit our website at https://www.ara.com/raleigh/. To learn more about our benefits program, including health, life & disability, retirement, flexible spending, rewards & recognition, work/life balance, professional development, and relocation, visit https://www.ara.com/benefits/.