Cybersecurity Manager - Special Programs

Cybersecurity Manager - Special Programs Date: Jul 10, 2026 Location: Lexington, MA, US Company: MIT Lincoln Laboratory Mission The Security Services Department's overall mission is to identify and counter security threats to the MIT Lincoln Laboratory's mission of development of game-changing technology in support of National Security, including guarding against compromise by foreign intelligence agencies and insider threats. To accomplish this mission, this department formulates and implements policies, plans, and actions designed to protect facilities against threats of vandalism, accidental destruction, and sabotage; and safeguards personnel, classified and unclassified information systems, personal identifiable information, property, and other assets from exploitation and recruitment by foreign intelligence agencies. We foster a culture where security professionals are empowered to solve complex security problems in close collaboration with Laboratory research teams and Government counterparts. Our people are our most important resource, and we encourage a casual and flexible opportunity‑filled working environment that is technology‑focused. Where mission needs can be met, the Security Services Department encourages flexible schedules and hybrid remote work arrangements. What Will You Do? The Cybersecurity Manager (Special Programs) reports to the Security Services Department Deputy Chief Information Security Officer (DCISO) and serves as the primary focal point and supervisor for a team of Information System Security Managers (ISSMs) and Information Systems Security Officers (ISSOs) in support of the Laboratory's primary research sponsor. Provide leadership, management, and direction to ensure effective execution of the Special Programs cybersecurity program. Closely monitor and oversee the application of security principles and policies, to include the Risk Management Framework (RMF); Joint Special Access Program (SAP) Implementation Guide (JSIG) or its replacement; Intelligence Community Directive 503 (ICD‑503); and Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs). Oversee and supervise the team, and provide superior customer assistance to Laboratory stakeholders. Requires in‑depth technical knowledge of computer security principles and practices to manage a comprehensive cybersecurity program servicing a diverse enterprise environment of ESXi, Linux, UNIX, Sun, and Windows systems. Monitor and oversee the development and review of all System Security Plans (SSP) produced by the team, ensuring systems are operated, maintained, and disposed of appropriately. Execute security compliance audits, Government compliance inspections, and security vulnerability assessments on Laboratory and Government information systems, ensuring action on vulnerabilities and Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms) in a timely manner and meeting both internal governance and external sponsor requirements. Ensure configuration management and continuous monitoring policies and procedures are established and maintained. Ensure team members participate in an effective cybersecurity education, training and awareness program. Directly conduct prospective candidate screening and hiring actions, participate in personnel retention efforts for assigned staff, and conduct other supervisory duties including scheduling, conducting interviews, and identifying opportunities for professional staff development. What You Need / Requirements Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Computer Information Systems, or related discipline with a minimum of ten (10) years' experience in the Information Security field, preferably within Special Access and Sensitive Compartmented Information Programs. Minimum of seven (7) years' leadership and supervisory experience in a DoD or Industrial Security environment, with demonstrated security process maturity outcomes. Demonstrated knowledge and experience with the National Industrial Security Program, including in-depth knowledge of RMF, JSIG, ICD 503, NIST SP 800‑53, and other associated NIST publications. Strong organizational skills and ability to work under pressure in a self‑directed, multi‑tasking, fast‑paced work environment. Technical experience securing multiple operating systems such as Windows Server, Linux, Solaris, and virtualization technologies. Strong knowledge of network environments and various network infrastructure products such as routers and switches, firewall/VPN equipment, and Data Loss Prevention strategies utilizing endpoint security solutions. Demonstrated capabilities in leading cross‑functional teams and presenting ideas, written and orally, within a collaborative team environment. Ability to multitask projects/programs and redirect priorities as needed. Excellent interpersonal communication, organizational, and customer service skills. Excellent oral, written, and presentation skills. Technical experience, coursework completed toward a degree, and industry‑IT certifications may be considered substitutes for education requirements. Position may require local and some overnight travel. Selected candidate will be subject to a pre‑employment background investigation. Must possess a current in‑scope Top Secret level security clearance with compartmented program eligibility. Ideally You Will Have Experience working as an ISSM for Special Access Programs. Experience leading cybersecurity teams through multiple Government Core Compliance Inspections (CCIs) with successful scores. Experience in relationship‑building, team building, and excellent Government sponsor communication. Cybersecurity Management certifications such as CISSP, CISM, IT auditor certifications such as CISA or GNSA, and other relevant certifications including DODM 8140 baseline certifications are viewed favorably. How Will You Grow? You will find significant opportunities to do meaningful work in an environment designed to be one where you will learn, thrive and belong. Leadership: Room to advance on your team or to lead cross‑functional projects. Growth Opportunities: Potential for lateral and vertical movement. Education/Training: Management training, mentorship, in‑house and external courses. Exposure: Engagement with sponsors, stakeholders, Laboratory leadership and other departments and divisions. Community: Participation encouraged for Laboratory social events, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), clubs and study groups, volunteering and community service projects. Benefits Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans MIT‑funded pension Matching 401K Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.) Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs Mentorship programs A range of work‑life balance options and much more! Hiring Range: $152,100 - $205,300 Disclaimer: MIT Lincoln Laboratory provides a typical hiring range as a good faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to offer for this position at the time of posting. The final salary offered to a selected candidate will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the scope and responsibilities of the role, the candidate's experience, skills and education/training, internal equity considerations and applicable legal requirements. This range reflects base salary only and does not include additional forms of compensation or benefits. Selected candidate will be subject to a pre‑employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance. MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required. Requisition ID: 42922 #J-18808-Ljbffr MIT Lincoln Laboratory