Cyber Security Architect

Job Description

Job Description

Description

REQUIRED :  Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph
LOCATION :  Full-time, onsite in Herndon, VA

We’re seeking a Cyber Security Architect who will support the evolution toward a mature Zero Trust posture while shaping secure, scalable IT direction across complex environments. In this role, you will bring working knowledge of frameworks such as NIST SP 800‑207—covering micro‑segmentation, least‑privilege access, and continuous verification—along with experience in modern network security architectures including SDN, SASE, and API‑gateway‑driven designs. 

Who We Are:
Ardent Principles delivers cutting‑edge capabilities across data science, data engineering, software engineering, AI solutions, cybersecurity, staff augmentation, and IT program management. We thrive at the intersection of mission, technology, and innovation.

Passionate Integrity, Driven by Excellence
At Ardent Principles, we don’t just offer jobs—we build careers rooted in purpose. Our competitive salary ranges and industry‑leading benefits are designed to support long‑term stability, growth, and overall well‑being. We’re committed to creating an environment where talented people can do their best work and feel valued while doing it. 

Join us as we continue building the future of secure, high‑impact solutions.
Key Responsibilities

In this challenging yet rewarding role, you are an integral part of what brings our Company's mission to life.  You must have the following required skills, certifications and demonstrated experience in and/or with:

• Evaluating and advising on zero trust architecture maturity models and road mapping phased adoption.
• Working within the IT and Cybersecurity policies, standards and guidance domains, organizing and shaping IT direction given to an organization's workforce.
• Applying critical thinking to identify strengths and weakness of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems related to zero trust architecture.
• Working knowledge of zero trust architecture frameworks (e.g., NIST SP 800-207), including micro-segmentation, least-privilege access, and continuous verification.
• Network security architectures, such as software-defined networking (SDN), secure access service edge (SASE), or API gateways.
• Working knowledge of identity and access management (1AM) and multi-factor authentication (MFA) systems.
• Working with cloud-native security (e.g., AWS 1AM, Azure AD, or Google Cloud 1AM) and hybrid/multi-cloud environments.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams (e.g., security, DevOps, compliance) to help align zero trust architecture goals and outcomes, with business objectives.
• Engaging with stakeholders to coordinate activities across organization boundaries.
• Preparing schedules, roadmaps, and management plans.
• Working with executive technical writing or editing to create cohesive products, narrative, or program artifacts for various audiences, including senior leadership.
• Translating technical information into clear, readable documents and presentations to be used by technical and non-technical personnel.
• Tracking project or program dependencies including but not limited to process improvements and changes, and technical integration challenges.
• Assessing, documenting, and tracking program and project requirements and follow-on technical exchange meetings (TEMs).
• Tracking and monitoring on-going projects and initiatives.
• Coordinating program and project management process activities such as program and project reviews and creating documentation.

Highly Desired Qualifications

Other skills and demonstrated experiences that are highly desired but not mandatory to perform the work, include:

• Understanding threat landscapes, including lateral movement prevention and behavioral analytics using SIEM tools (e.g., Splunk) or UEBA platforms.
• Architecting scalable, resilient zero trust architecture solutions that incorporate automation (e.g., via Infrastructure as Code with Terraform or similar) and monitoring for real-time anomaly detection.
• Assisting in identification and definition of process efficiencies.
• Creating, drafting, and reviewing Cybersecurity policies and program documentation.
• Working as a Network Architect or Security Architect.
• Degree or equivalent experience in a business, computer science or technology discipline.

What We Offer You

• Highly Competitive Salary : Recognizing and rewarding your expertise and contributions.
• Generous Paid Time Off : Providing ample time for rest, relaxation, and personal pursuits.
• Dedicated Training Budget : Supporting continuous learning and professional development.
• 100% Employer-Covered Family Vision, Dental, and Health Insurance : Ensuring comprehensive health coverage for you and your family.
• 100% Employer-Covered Life and Disability Insurance : Offering financial security and peace of mind.
• 401(k) Plan with a 6% Employer Match : Helping you plan and save for a secure retirement, with 100% vesting from day one.
• 11 Paid Government Holidays : Observing national holidays to ensure time off with family and friends.
• Spot Bonuses for Exceptional Performance : Rewarding outstanding contributions and achievements.

SCHEDULE:

This is a full-time position with consultants expected to be available and working onsite in Herndon, VA during core hours.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of a team dedicated to driving positive change through technology. Apply now with our easy 3-minute, mobile-friendly initial application process. Your future starts here!