Quarantine Release/Systems Security Engineer

Systems Security Engineer (Cybersecurity / Quarantine Release)

Location: Dahlgren, VA (Hybrid - 3 days onsite / 2 remote)

Employment Type: Contract-to-Hire / Full-Time

Clearance: Active Secret required (Top Secret preferred)

Certification: DoD 8570 IAT Level II

Salary Range: $65,000 - $80,000

About Apex Systems

Apex Systems is a leading technology services firm that provides innovative solutions to government and commercial clients. We specialize in delivering high-quality talent and expertise across cybersecurity, infrastructure, cloud, and digital transformation initiatives.

Overview

Apex Systems is seeking a Systems Security Engineer to support a DoD client in Dahlgren, VA. This role is focused on vulnerability management, system hardening, and cyber defense operations within a secure enterprise environment.

The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience with DoD cybersecurity tools, network security principles, and risk mitigation strategies , and will play a key role in strengthening the organization's overall security posture.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct vulnerability scans and identify security weaknesses across systems, applications, and networks
• Utilize DoD security tools such as ACAS, HBSS , and related platforms
• Perform application vulnerability assessments and analyze configuration data to identify systemic risks
• Apply cybersecurity principles (confidentiality, integrity, availability, authentication, non-repudiation)
• Implement system, network, and OS hardening techniques (e.g., least privilege, segmentation, logging)
• Troubleshoot and resolve cyber defense infrastructure issues and anomalies
• Perform impact and risk assessments to support remediation efforts
• Analyze threat environments and provide actionable insights to improve security posture
• Implement and maintain access controls, VPNs, and encryption protocols
• Support malware defense using IDS/IPS, anti-malware, and endpoint security tools
• Perform other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience
• 2-5 years of relevant cybersecurity / systems security experience
• Active DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+)
• Active Secret clearance required (Top Secret preferred)
• Strong knowledge of:
  • Networking protocols (TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP)
  • Network security methodologies and architecture (defense-in-depth, zero trust)
  • System, network, and OS hardening techniques
  • IDS/IPS tools and vulnerability management
  • Application security and common vulnerabilities
• Experience supporting one or more of the following:
  • Windows
  • Linux/Unix
  • Mobile platforms (iOS/Android)

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of cyber threats, vulnerabilities, and attack vectors
• Experience with network traffic analysis and monitoring
• Familiarity with Identity and Access Management (IAM) (PKI, SAML, OAuth, etc.)
• Experience with RMF / NIST 800-53 frameworks
• Understanding of wireless and transmission technologies (Wi-Fi, RFID, Bluetooth, VoIP)
• Ability to analyze and respond to various attack types (insider, passive, active, etc.)

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 10-20 lbs
• Occasional bending, twisting, or squatting

Additional Details

• Hybrid schedule: 3 days onsite in Dahlgren, VA
• U.S. Citizenship required to support clearance

Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing® in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work® in the United Kingdom and Mexico.

Everforth Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click here for more details. By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Everforth Apex and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at

Everforth Apex Benefits Overview: Everforth Apex offers a range of supplemental benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life, disability, and other insurance plans that offer an optional layer of financial protection. We offer an ESPP (employee stock purchase program) and a 401K program which allows you to contribute typically within 30 days of starting, with a company match after 12 months of tenure. Everforth Apex also offers a HSA (Health Savings Account on the HDHP plan), a SupportLinc Employee Assistance Program (EAP) with up to 8 free counseling sessions, a corporate discount savings program and other discounts. In terms of professional development, Everforth Apex hosts an on-demand training program, provides access to certification prep and a library of technical and leadership courses/books/seminars once you have 6+ months of tenure, and certification discounts and other perks to associations that include CompTIA and IIBA. Everforth Apex has a dedicated customer service team for our Consultants that can address questions around benefits and other resources, as well as a certified Career Coach. You can access a full list of our benefits, programs, support teams and resources within our 'Welcome Packet' as well, which an Everforth Apex team member can provide.

Everforth Apex Systems is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate or allow discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, genetic information, registered domestic partner status, marital status, disability, status as a crime victim, protected veteran status, political affiliation, union membership, or any other characteristic protected by law. Everforth Apex will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable law.

If you require an accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act to participate in an interview with a virtual recruiter or to use our website for a search or application, please contact our Benefits Department at [email protected] or View phone number on click.appcast.io. Please note that this contact information is strictly to be used for medical ADA accommodations and that no other inquiries will be answered.

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