Systems Security Engineer (Hybrid)

Nightwing provides technically advanced full-spectrum cyber, data operations, systems integration and intelligence mission support services to meet our customers’ most demanding challenges. Our capabilities include cyber space operations, cyber defense and resiliency, vulnerability research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and software modernization. Nightwing brings disruptive technologies, agility, and competitive offerings to customers in the intelligence community, defense, civil, and commercial markets.

Position Overview

We're seeking a Systems Security Engineer to ensure secure product integration into forward-deployed DoD tactical systems such as radars, missile defense platforms, C4ISR systems, and other mission-critical fielded equipment. You'll work directly with customer platform program offices to help architect security approaches that address operational constraints of tactical environments while meeting DoD security requirements. This is not an administrative RMF compliance role. We need someone who can engineer security into tactical hardware/software systems at the lowest levels, then help navigate the authorization process. You'll work hands-on with actual platforms in test labs and operational environments, not just enterprise IT infrastructure.

What You'll Do

• Develop security solutions that work within the constraints of forward-deployed systems (SWaP limitations, real-time requirements, etc)
• Create meaningful security artifacts including Attack Trees for operational systems, Key Management Plans for product or system crypto implementations, and System Security Plans for fielded platforms
• Map security requirements across different customer frameworks (800-53, Anti-Tamper, Cyber Survivability, Zero Trust) and translate them into implementable technical solutions
• Interface with platform security personnel and accreditation authorities to support authorization processes

Required Skills

• Core Technical Experience
• Experience with tactical/embedded DoD systems - actual hands-on security or software integration work with platforms such as: Radar systems, Missile defense systems, Avionics or flight control systems, C4ISR equipment, Electronic warfare systems, Tactical communication systems, Other forward-deployed mission systems
• Understanding of hardware security constraints in tactical environments
• Experience integrating commercial security products into government platforms or weapon systems
• Knowledge of operational security considerations for forward-deployed systems
• Deep knowledge of DoD cybersecurity requirements, frameworks, and processes (RMF, Anti-Tamper, Cyber Survivability, Zero Trust, etc.)
• Experience with security artifact development that goes beyond checkbox compliance
• Knowledge of cryptographic implementations and key management in operational contexts
• Ability to map security requirements across different frameworks
• Experience interfacing with platform security engineering and accreditation authorities

Professional Skills

• Strong technical writing and documentation skills
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical teams and government stakeholders
• Experience working on-platform or in test labs with actual hardware and software

Valuable Additional Skills And Experience

• Platform & System Security
• TPM and Secure Boot technologies implementation
• Familiarity with OS internals (Linux and/or Windows) in embedded or tactical contexts
• Real-time operating system (RTOS) security considerations
• Experience with weapon system or tactical platform security requirements
• Security Testing & Assessment
• Security testing methodologies (penetration testing, vulnerability assessment) for embedded systems
• Experience with security assessment tools (static/dynamic analysis, fuzzing) applicable to tactical systems
• Experience with security requirements for embedded systems or kernel/driver software

Our Ideal Candidate

Someone Who Has Actually worked on tactical platforms in labs, test ranges, or operational environments

Designed security solutions for systems with real operational constraints

The ability to navigate complex DoD security requirements while delivering practical, implementable solutions

Experience translating between the operational/engineering world and the compliance/accreditation world

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Qualified applicants may be subject to a security investigation and must meet minimum qualifications for access to classified information.
• Active Secret or TS clearance strongly preferred.