Facility Security Officer

Facility Security Officer

Saronic Technologies is a leader in revolutionizing autonomy at sea, dedicated to developing state-of-the-art solutions that enhance maritime operations through autonomous and intelligent platforms.

Saronic Technologies is seeking an experienced Facility Security Officer (FSO) to oversee the overall security program for our cleared facilities, ensuring compliance with the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM, 32 CFR Part 117), DoD directives, and other relevant guidelines. The FSO will manage facility clearances (FCLs), personnel security, physical and information security measures, and compliance activities to support our growing defense operations in a secure environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the management, direction, administration, and development of the facility's security program, including establishing and maintaining security plans, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and compliance documentation.

• Ensure adherence to NISPOM, DoD 5220.22-M, and contract-specific security requirements for cleared facilities.

• Provide guidance and procedures for security operations, coordinating with senior leadership to address and resolve security concerns.

• Conduct security audits, self-inspections, vulnerability assessments, and support Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) reviews and inspections.

• Respond to security incidents and violations, perform investigations, document findings, recommend corrective actions, and prepare reports for internal and external stakeholders, including impact assessments.

• Manage on-site security operations, prioritize tasks, resolve conflicts, and deliver ad hoc security support to facility personnel.

Personnel Security and Access Control

• Manage personnel security clearances (PCLs), including processing background investigations, security briefings, debriefings, and indoctrinations for cleared personnel.

• Maintain personnel security records using systems such as the Defense Information System for Security (DISS), Scattered Castles, related databases.

• Perform access eligibility reviews, submit clearance requests, and process nominations for higher-level accesses as needed.

• Handle security files for cleared individuals, including maintenance of records for indoctrinated staff and processing terminations or transfers.

• Manage incoming and outgoing visit requests, enforce need-to-know principles, and coordinate visitor access controls.

• Develop and deliver security awareness training, education programs, and briefings (e.g., initial, annual refresher, and role-specific) for all personnel handling classified information.

Classified Information and Material Handling

• Account for, control, transmit, package, safeguard, and destroy classified information in accordance with authorized protocols.

• Maintain accountability records for classified materials, including inventories, receipts, transmittals, disposition logs, and required annual audits.

• Ensure proper marking, storage, and handling of classified materials per NISPOM, classification guides, and standards such as 32 CFR Part 2001.

• Implement systems to ensure classified information is used, retained, and disposed of only for authorized purposes, with strict controls for sensitive levels like TOP SECRET.

Physical Security and Facility Management

• Oversee physical security for cleared facilities, including access controls, intrusion detection systems (IDS), closed-circuit television (CCTV), and perimeter safeguards.

• Manage Facility Clearance (FCL) processes, including initial applications, renewals, and expansions, ensuring compliance with DCSA requirements.

• Develop and review physical security plans, coordinate facility modifications or constructions, and collaborate with vendors to integrate security features.

• Implement measures to prevent unauthorized access or compromise, including end-of-day checks, emergency response procedures, and alarm system monitoring.

• Ensure compliance with supplemental directives and standards for physical security, in addition to NISPOM guidelines.

• Coordinate with cognizant security authorities for facility accreditations, inspections, and any international or foreign disclosure considerations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Stay abreast of emerging security threats, technologies, and best practices to strengthen the facility's security posture.

• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., HR, IT, legal) and external entities, including government agencies, auditors, and partners.

• Support insider threat programs, report potential compromises of classified information, and assist in federal investigations as required.

• Ensure compliance with additional controls for sensitive information, such as Technology Control Plans (TCPs), Export Control requirements, and Foreign Ownership, Control, or Influence (FOCI) mitigations.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Information Security, Criminal Justice, or a related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in industrial security, with at least 3 years as an FSO or in a similar role managing cleared facilities.

• Active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for SCI access.

• Thorough knowledge of NISPOM (32 CFR Part 117), DoD directives, and related security regulations.

• Proficiency with security systems such as DISS, JPAS, and e-QIP.

• Excellent organizational, analytical, and communication skills, with the ability to manage sensitive information confidentially.

• Some travel expected.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Professional certifications such as Industrial Security Professional (ISP), Certified Protection Professional (CPP), or Facility Security Officer (FSO) certification.

• Experience in defense contracting, especially in maritime or unmanned systems.

• Familiarity with physical security standards like UL 2050 and insider threat programs.

• Graduate degree in a related field.

Physical Demands:

• Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

• Occasional standing and walking within the office

• Manual dexterity to operate a computer keyboard, mouse, and other office equipment

• Visual acuity to read screens, documents, and reports

• Occasional reaching, bending, or stooping to access file drawers, cabinets, or office supplies

• Lifting and carrying items up to 20 pounds occasionally (e.g., office supplies, packages)

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance plans covering a range of services

• Saronic pays 100% of the premium for employees and 80% for dependents

• Coverage for routine dental check-ups, orthodontics, and vision care

• Saronic pays 100% of the premium under the basic plan for employees and 80% for dependents

• Generous PTO and Holidays

• Paid maternity and paternity leave to support new parents

• Industry-standard salaries with opportunities for performance-based bonuses

• 401(k) plan with company match

• Equity options to give employees a stake in the company's success

• Basic life insurance and short- and long-term disability coverage

• Discounted pet insurance options including 24/7 Telehealth helpline

• Free lunch benefit and unlimited free drinks and snacks in the office

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