Research & Development Specialist

Research And Development Specialist – Advanced (Identity Engineering Services)

Location: San Antonio, TX

Clearance: Secret

Education: BS in Computer Science related field or A BBA in the same technical field or CASP+ Certifications: Microsoft Certified: Cyber Security Architect Expert or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert

Position Description: The Identity Engineering Research & Development (R&D) Specialist supports the DHA Domain and Directory Services Branch (DDSB) by researching, prototyping, and piloting new Identity, Credential, and Access Management (ICAM) capabilities. This role ensures that emerging identity technologies are evaluated, tested, and aligned with DoD Zero Trust and ICAM Strategy requirements before enterprise adoption. Key Responsibilities:

• Research and evaluate emerging identity technologies, authentication methods, and federation standards (e.g., SAML, OAuth, OpenID Connect, FIDO2) for DHA enterprise applicability.
• Prototype and validate new identity integration solutions for Active Directory, Entra ID, MECM, Intune, and MED365 environments.
• Support R&D pilots for PKI/PKE solutions, identity synchronization, and cross-domain federation with DoD mission partners.
• Develop proof-of-concept environments and test cases for identity and access solutions, documenting results and recommendations for enterprise deployment.
• Contribute to the DHA Zero Trust and ICAM implementation roadmap by identifying opportunities to improve access governance, automation, and resiliency.
• Provide technical recommendations to leadership on identity modernization efforts, ensuring alignment with DoD ICAM Strategy and cybersecurity reference architectures.
• Collaborate with engineers, cybersecurity staff, and system administrators to transition validated R&D efforts into operational environments.
• Develops: Identity R&D white papers and test reports, Proof-of-concept solution designs and evaluation results, Recommendations for enterprise adoption of new ICAM capabilities, Updated architectural documentation for identity solutions

The Identity Engineering R&D Specialist drives innovation and modernization within DHA's enterprise identity services. By testing and validating new ICAM technologies, this role ensures that DHA remains aligned with Zero Trust objectives, enhances interoperability with mission partners, and strengthens the security and reliability of healthcare IT services across the Military Health System.