Network Security Engineer

Network Security EngineerWe are seeking a highly motivated Network Security Engineer with a strong foundation in security engineering to join the DevSecOps Team of the Joint Mission Integration and Experimentation (JMIE) Division within the Information Advantage Office at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State, based in San Diego, CA. The JMIE Division delivers advanced communications capabilities and secure experimentation networks supporting departmental mission partners, including cross-domain data movement, tactical compute environments, and resilient edge processing.ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning service members to apply.You will:Design, implement, and maintain network security architectures across multi-domain and cloud-connected environmentsDefine and enforce cybersecurity and network administration processes, ensuring consistent protection of data flows across experimental and operational networksCollaborate across infrastructure, systems, and cloud teams using Agile methods to ensure secure design, verification, deployment, and continuous monitoring of networked environmentsDevelop Risk Management Framework (RMF) documentation and Body of Evidence artifacts, including system security plans and concept-of-operations documents for networked and cloud systemsApply security engineering principles—secure design, secure coding practices, static/dynamic analysis, and architectural review—to validate system security requirements across network infrastructureConduct network security assessments within MLS systems, supporting vulnerability analysis, threat modeling and security control validationPlan, execute, and report on security assessments across multiple classification domainsImplement and validate security controls across network architectures, including boundary protections, segmentation, cross-domain interfaces, and secure transport mechanismsCoordinate and oversee RMF documentation required for accreditation of networked cloud environments, including Cybersecurity Strategy and Continuous Monitoring PlansSupport lifecycle security requirements such as patch management, supply chain evaluation, change control, and defect managementMentor and support team members when neededAdditional responsibilities for higher-level roles:Collaborate closely with ISSOs and ISSMs to refine RMF documentation, review system security plans, risk assessments, accreditation packages, and POA&MsOperate independently to develop RMF Authorization & Assessment (A&A) packages and deliver artifacts required to obtain an Authority to Operate (ATO)Required Skills/Experience areas include:Demonstrated experience developing RMF documentation and guiding systems through accreditation across multiple environmentsProven ability to design and scale secure network architectures across multi-domain systemsStrong background in cybersecurity disciplines, including vulnerability management, scanning, compliance evaluation, and control implementationExperience interpreting security policy, generating evidence, and documenting test results for NIST 800-53 / JSIG security controlsActive TS/SCI clearance (or eligibility to obtain)Preferred Skills/Experience areas include:Experience managing configuration control for security-related network hardware, software, and firmwarePrior work as a System or Network AdministratorHands-on experience with Windows and Linux environments, especially in enterprise or tactical networksFamiliarity with DoD technical and policy documentationExperience developing security or RMF training materialsProficiency with eMASS, ACAS/Nessus, STIG application, and network hardeningCertifications such as GRC, CISSP, CISM, CCISO, GIAC, GSLC, or CASP+Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required CertificationsIf filled as Cyber Security Engineer (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications: NoneIf filled as Cyber Security Engineer (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:Bachelor's Degree3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience acceptedRequired Certifications: NoneSalary Range: $100,136.00 - $197,604.00Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time.

One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.