Special Security Officer (SSO)

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly. Who We’re Looking For We are seeking an experienced Special Security Officer (SSO) to lead and support security operations for Quantum Space’s classified and national security programs. This is a highly visible role for someone who understands how to operate effectively within the national security space environment and has experience supporting complex classified programs. The ideal candidate brings deep knowledge of government security requirements, strong relationships within the classified space community, and the ability to navigate customer organizations with credibility and sound judgment. You will serve as a trusted security partner to our leadership, engineering, business development, and program teams while building and maintaining strong working relationships with government customers and security stakeholders. You will help ensure Quantum Space has the security infrastructure, processes, and partnerships necessary to pursue and execute increasingly complex classified missions. This role is ideal for someone who combines deep security expertise with strong judgment, discretion, and the ability to build trusted relationships across government and industry. Where You’ll Make an Impact Serve as a primary security interface between Quantum Space and U.S. Government customers, security representatives, and classified program stakeholdersBuild and maintain trusted relationships across the national security space and government security communitiesDevelop and execute security strategies supporting classified programs and new mission opportunitiesAdvise program and company leadership on security requirements, risks, and considerations affecting classified programsManage security requirements associated with classified programs, facilities, personnel, information, and operationsSupport Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Program (SAP) activities, as applicableCoordinate personnel security actions, including clearance processing, indoctrinations, debriefings, visit requests, access determinations, and related documentationSupport the establishment, accreditation, and ongoing operation of classified facilities and secure work environments, including SCIFs and SAPFs as requiredDevelop, implement, and maintain security policies, procedures, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) consistent with government and customer requirementsInterpret and implement applicable security directives, including ICDs, DoD requirements, and customer-specific guidancePartner with business development and program teams to identify security requirements early in the capture and program lifecycleSupport classified proposal, capture, and customer engagement activitiesConduct security education, training, briefings, and awareness programs for employees supporting classified activitiesPrepare for and support government security reviews, inspections, and assessmentsMaintain strict accountability and protection of classified information and assetsHelp build a security culture that enables teams to move quickly while maintaining uncompromising standards for protecting national security information What It Takes 7+ years of progressively responsible security experience supporting classified U.S. Government, defense, intelligence, aerospace, or national security programsSignificant experience supporting classified programs within the national security space or highly regulated aerospace and defense environmentStrong understanding of personnel, physical, information, and program security requirementsExperience supporting SCI and/or SAP environmentsWorking knowledge of applicable security policies and frameworks, including ICD 705, DoD Manual 5205.07, NISPOM requirements, and related government security guidanceExperience interacting directly with government security representatives and program security stakeholdersDemonstrated ability to establish credibility and build trusted relationships with government customersAbility to navigate complex government organizations and security processes effectivelyStrong understanding of how security requirements intersect with program execution, business development, and new program captureStrong judgment, discretion, and ability to operate independently in sensitive environmentsExcellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to translate complex security requirements for technical and non-technical teamsActive Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibilityAbility to maintain all security clearances and accesses required for the position Nice-to-Have Experience Established relationships within the Southern California national security space and classified security communityExperience supporting government space acquisition, development, or operational programsExperience serving as an SSO, CPSO, FSO, CSSO, or senior security professional supporting classified aerospace or space programsExperience working directly with government program offices and customer security organizationsExperience establishing, accrediting, or managing a SCIF and/or SAPFExperience supporting SAP and SCI program environmentsExperience helping an organization establish or expand its classified program capabilitiesFamiliarity with DCSA requirements, DISS, NBIS, NISS, and related security systemsExperience supporting classified capture, proposals, and new business activitiesKnowledge of counterintelligence, OPSEC, insider threat, and security education programsExperience operating in a fast-paced aerospace, defense technology, or growth-stage environment What You’ll Get Ownership – Help build and shape Quantum Space’s classified security infrastructure and capabilitiesPartnership – Develop trusted relationships with customers and security stakeholders supporting critical national security missionsMission – Enable highly consequential spacecraft programs supporting U.S. national security objectivesImpact – Directly influence Quantum Space’s ability to pursue, win, and execute classified missionsGrowth – Play a foundational role as our classified portfolio, facilities, and security organization expandCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity sharing Location: Hawthorne, CA Base Salary: $150,000 to $200,000 The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package. Additional Requirements To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.