Information System Security Manager (ISSM)

The Defense Technology Solutions Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a person to fill the position of an Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) to join our team in Albuquerque, NM. The Information System Security Manager (ISSM) is responsible for the implementation, management, and day-to-day oversight of the classified information system security program at a specific cleared facility location. Appointed per 32 CFR Part 117 §117.7(b)(5), the ISSM ensures all classified information systems at the facility operate in compliance with the NISPOM Rule, the DCSA Assessment and Authorization Guide (DAAG), NIST SP 800-53, CNSSI 1253, and all applicable CSA cybersecurity requirements.

The ISSM is primarily responsible for the implementation of the risk management framework (RMF). The ISSM serves as the principal advisor on all matters, technical and otherwise, involving the security of systems under their purview. This role requires close coordination with the facility FSO, the Insider Threat Program Senior Official (ITPSO), Information System Security Officers (ISSOs), DCSA Information Systems Security Professionals (ISSPs), and facility IT support staff.

Essential Functions

• Implement and manage the classified information system security program at the division/branch facility in accordance with 32 CFR Part 117 §117.18 and the DAAG.
• Maintain a productive working relationship with DCSA ISSPs and respond promptly to assessment findings and information requests.
• Develop, maintain, and submit System Security Plans (SSPs), security control assessments, and authorization packages for all classified systems at the facility.
• Manage the full RMF lifecycle of facility classified systems ensuring they operate within the parameters of their DCSA-approved security plans
• Complete RMF packages within DCSA timelines for authorization, reauthorization, extension, and decommission workflows within eMASS to ensure operation continuity
• Supervise site-level ISSOs and any support staff performing NISP-related security functions at the facility.
• Conduct regular security control assessments, continuous monitoring and self-inspections of classified information systems
• Manage the facility’s Plan of Action and Milestones (POA&M) for classified systems, tracking open findings to timely resolution.
• Evaluate and ensure compliance with configuration management and change control processes for all system modifications prior to implementation.
• Serve as the facility-level lead for classified information system security incidents coordinating all external reporting through the FSO and corporate security.
• Develop and deliver annual role-based training for all users and administrators of classified information systems at the facility
• Provide technical guidance for controls on the configuration, hardening, patching, and maintenance of classified systems, networks, and enclaves at the facility.
• Help oversee the sanitization and destruction of classified media and equipment at the facility per NSA/CSS guidelines
• Participate in corporate ISSM working groups and internal security reviews.
• Support the FSO during DCSA security reviews by providing classified IS documentation, evidence of compliance, and technical briefings.

Education

Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, information technology, or a related field. Equivalent combination of education and directly related experience will be considered.

Experience and Skills Required

• Security+
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in information system security, with at least 2 years in an ISSM, ISSO, or equivalent role supporting classified information systems.
• Demonstrated working knowledge of 32 CFR Part 117 §117.18, the DCSA Assessment and Authorization Guide (DAAG), and NIST 800-series publications.
• Experience managing the A&A lifecycle for classified information systems under DCSA cognizance
• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility (or ability to obtain) or clearance commensurate with the highest classification level processed on facility systems.
• Strong technical knowledge of Windows and/or Linux security hardening, STIG application, network security fundamentals, and audit log management.
• Experience with classified system configuration management, media control, and sanitization/destruction procedures.

Core Competencies

• Technical understanding of classified system security controls, network architecture, and risk management
• Knowledge of NISPOM and related CFRs, DAAG, NIST SPs, CNSSI directives.
• Analytical thinking, technical writing, and the ability to produce clear security documentation (SSPs, POA&Ms, incident reports).
• Incident response leadership, including digital evidence preservation and coordination with the FSO, ITPSO, and government agencies.
• Effective collaboration with the FSO, ITPSO, IT staff, program managers, and DCSA ISSPs.
• Discretion and integrity in handling classified information and sensitive cybersecurity data.
• Commitment to continuous professional development and staying current with evolving cybersecurity threats and DCSA guidance.
• Manage individuals and work in a small team to complete projects on set deadlines.

Preferred

• DoD 8570.01-M / DoD 8140 compliant certification at the IAM Level II or higher (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CAP, or CASP+).
• Prior industry ISSM, ISSO, or cybersecurity assessor experience (DCSA, NSA, or IC).
• Knowledge of cross-domain solutions, classified cloud environments (IL4/IL5), and network interconnection security.
• Experience with eMASS or equivalent A&A workflow tools, vulnerability scanners, SIEM/Auditing and STIG Viewer / SCAP compliance tools.

Compensation & Benefits: Pay Range: $130,000 - $150,000 per year based on years of experience, degree and any special skills and knowledge that they may bring to the position. ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees’ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at

Company Information:

Who is ARA? Learn more about ARA and Our Core Values at WHO WE ARE - ARA

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM in 1979, employs over 2200 professionals and continues to grow. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns’ greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, opportunities and autonomy to take active roles as employee owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are expected to advance new capabilities to support company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The core values “Passion, Freedom, Service and Growth” and the motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sum up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at