Principal Director, Security Operations, West

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, providing technical solutions across satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. This role focuses on leading our security operations for the Western Region. Responsibilities Lead enterprise security operations and implement integrated security solutions that encompass proactive risk management, crisis preparedness, and actionable threat intelligence while maintaining contractual and regulatory compliance across multiple classified environments. Direct all aspects of classified program security, ensuring compliance with NISP, ICD, DoD5205 series SAP Manuals, JSIG, and NISPOM requirements. Build and lead high-performing security teams, including direct management of security professionals, 24x7 contractor guard forces, and oversight of insider threat, counterintelligence, and incident response capabilities. Serve as the organization’s senior security strategist, partnering with C‑suite executives, program managers, and government customers to assess risks, implement controls, and translate complex security requirements into actionable business solutions. Support enterprise insider threat program end‑to‑end, including detection strategy, investigation management, and cross‑functional collaboration with the Insider Threat Program Senior Official, People Operations, and Legal. Oversee SCIF operations, including ICD‑705 construction oversight, COMSEC programs, classified storage and inventory, media control, and visitor management within secure areas. Manage security investigations, incident response, and crisis management, serving as incident commander for security events requiring evacuation, shelter‑in‑place, or lockdown procedures. Direct strategic security budgets, forecast resource requirements, negotiate MOUs with customers, develop Co‑Use and Joint Use Agreements, and optimize security investments. Drive security technology modernization, including EDR, DLP, PSIM systems, and custom tooling to automate security operations and enhance threat detection capabilities. Provide direct support to international programs and collaborate with programs, customers and governments to maintain compliance. Minimum Requirements Bachelor’s degree in security management, intelligence studies, computer science, criminal justice, or related discipline. 12+ years of progressive security leadership experience, with at least 5 years in senior director or executive roles managing classified program security or enterprise security operations in defense, aerospace, or intelligence community environments. Current Top Secret/SCI clearance with ability to obtain and maintain SAP accesses; adjudicated polygraph highly preferred. U.S. citizenship required. Expert knowledge of classified program security requirements, including DoD5205 series SAP Manuals, JSIG, NISPOM, ICD705, ICD503, and DCSA compliance frameworks. Proven experience leading insider threat programs, including investigation management, anomaly detection, digital forensics, incident response, and cross‑functional collaboration. Demonstrated experience managing security teams (40+ personnel) in 24x7 operational environments. Technical proficiency with security technologies such as EDR tools, DLP systems, PSIM platforms, COMSEC equipment, and large‑scale data analysis. Strong analytical and investigative skills with the ability to interpret complex data and provide clear recommendations to non‑technical stakeholders. Experience with SCIF construction and operations, including ICD‑705 compliance and classified storage management. Willingness and ability to provide after‑hours response to security incidents and travel domestically approximately 20‑25% to secure facilities and customer sites. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree in a related discipline. 20+ years of security leadership experience with progression from tactical operations to strategic executive roles. Active Top Secret/SCI with adjudicated polygraph and current investigation. Professional certifications: CPP, PSP, ISP, CISSP, CDSE, ICD‑705 SCIF Construction, or related credentials. Programming or automation experience in Python, Go, or similar; familiarity with infrastructure‑as‑code tools such as Terraform or AWSCDK. Counterintelligence background and experience with foreign intelligence threat assessments. Understanding of export control regulations including ITAR, EAR, and foreign disclosure processes. Government or military intelligence background in counterintelligence, special security, or force protection. Expertise in crisis management and emergency response, including leading organizations through major security incidents. Track record of security innovation and automation in classified environments. Compensation Grade‑based pay range: $180,800.00 – $271,200.00 (annual). Individual salaries within this range are determined by factors including education, experience, and skills. Benefits Comprehensive health care and wellness plans. Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation. Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options. 401(k) plan with company contributions ranging from 8% to 12% of eligible compensation, plus matching contributions, and immediate vesting upon hire. Flexible spending accounts. Variable pay program for exceptional contributions. Relocation assistance. Professional growth and development programs, including education assistance. Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect. EEO Statement The Aerospace Corporation is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at View phone number on click.appcast.io or by email at View email address on click.appcast.io. #J-18808-Ljbffr