Contract Program Security Officer (CPSO)

Apogee Research brings cutting-edge research into practice for the DoD community. We blend agility with rigor to develop new technologies and transition them into operational use. Founded in 2012, Apogee Research brings together cross-discipline teams to solve difficult and often deemed impossible problems across a range of different technical domains. At Apogee Research we work hard, we get things done, and we do it together.

Apogee Research is seeking an experienced, highly motivated, and organized Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO) with a demonstrated capability working within executive-level DoD multi-level security environments.


The CPSO reports directly to the Director of Security and will also assist in managing Special Access Programs (SAPs) and provide expertise in a wide variety of security functions. The CPSO must have experience managing a variety of security functions and tasks such as Program Protection (P2) Plans, Transport Plans, and Test Plans; as well as supporting general security including personnel security, physical security, document control, visitor control, automated information security (AIS), and employee security training.


The candidate must have a strong working knowledge of the NISPOM, DoD SAP Manuals and Security Classification Guides (SCGs), and all other security-related regulations and procedures. The CPSO will interface daily with government personnel regarding program security matters and requirements. CPSO will complete the PAR process, prepare for inspections, process visit requests, conduct security briefings, maintain access rosters, classified shipments, and IDS/access management systems, and perform other duties as assigned. This is an excellent opportunity for an energetic and experienced CPSO who is conscientious, detail-oriented, and enjoys working with a close-knit team. This position can be scoped to meet the capabilities of the right candidate with competitive compensation matched to the key responsibilities of the role.

This job requires final TOP SECRET security clearance. We will only accept candidates that currently have a final TOP SECRET security clearance. All applicants must be a US CITIZEN . This position is full-time, in-person and located in our Arlington, Virginia office.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage Special Access Program (SAP) operations programs.
• Create and maintain Program Protection (P2) Plans.
• Brief Security Classification Guides (SCGs) and ensure accountability of documents.
• Conduct Security briefings to include program level indoctrinations, annual refresher training, and other special event driven training.
• Manage and administer all aspects of industrial security programs for multiple programs in compliance with the DoDM 5205.07 Special Access Program Security Manual, NISPOM, ICD's and other applicable government security directives. Enforce compliance with ICD and DOD Manual policy for SCI and SAP management
• Ensure SAP and SCIF comply with ICD 705 requirements. Prepare packages for Accreditation and Authority to Operate (ATO) and ensure timely approval.
• Develop, coordinate, maintain and execute Security Standard Operating Procedures for the SAPF/SCIF.
• In-coordination with the government security team, conduct annual collateral, SCI and SAP self-inspections utilizing the government provided self-inspection checklists for the facility. Upon completion, the contractor shall develop and provide the government security team for approval corrective action plans to address each deficiency.
• Assist in preparation, review, coordination, execution of OPSEC and Transportation security plans as required.
• Review and generate DD Form 254s and provide guidance of flow down security requirements.
• Conduct security inquiries, identify suspected security infractions and violations, develop reports, and make recommendations to the government security team for corrective action(s).
• Maintain Information Management System for classified documentation; ensure document tracking and control and accountability; maintain reproduction and destruction capabilities.
• Manage safeguarding, control and record keeping of classified information.
• Prepare processes and procedures for creating, handling, and storing classified material.
• Prepare documents for secure transmission (marking, faxing, wrapping, and mailing).
• Respond to alarms and other emergencies after business hours and/or nights/weekends.
• Assist ISSM and ISSO with maintenance and monitoring of classified information systems.
• Prepare and maintain Program Protection (P2) Plans, Security Classification Guides (SCGs) and Transportation Plans.

Requirements for Position

• Must have active TS clearance and be SCI Eligible at time of appointment
• Bachelor's Degree and 4+ years related as an FSO or security specialist (additional experience is considered in lieu of degree).
• Full-Time, In-Person
• Possesses thorough knowledge of the government clearance process and experience with JADE, NISS, DISS and E-QIP.
• Experience in Personnel and Information Security, document, and visitor control, and working in an SCI and/or SAP environment.
• Self-starter, highly motivated, able to multi-task and meet tight deadlines. A strong candidate must have the ability to work well under pressure and deal with changing priorities.
• Must have excellent work habits, including a willingness to work the hours necessary to get the job done.
• Excellent communication skills (oral and written), ability to work in team environment, and must work well with others.
• Effective problem - solving and mediation skills.
• Proven ability to cope with conflict, stress and crisis situations.

Strongly Preferred

• Successful completion of SAP (Special Access Programs) training courses within one month of employment.
• Experience in industrial security and an in-depth knowledge of the NISPOM and keep abreast of ever-changing industrial security regulations
• Experience working with the DoD community. Experience working with DARPA and Department of Air Force is highly desirable.
• Experience working in an SCI and/or SAP environment.
• Experience with reviewing contracts at all levels (from proposal to close out) to identify security requirements and then assure compliance is desired.

About Apogee Research

Apogee Research offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, FSAs, paid vacation, sick leave, and paid holidays. Conveniently located in Arlington, VA, we are a short walking distance from the Ballston Metro station. We offer the choice of paid garage parking or a contribution towards a transit account.

Apogee Research, LLC is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factors.