Program Security Specialist

SAIC • El Segundo, CA

8d

About The Position

SAIC’s Horizon program is seeking an experienced Program Security Specialist to develop, implement, and manage comprehensive security strategies for the U.S. Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) Combat Power, Surveillance and Reconnaissance program office. This specialist will embed full-time with the Government’s Space Surveillance and Reconnaissance team, helping shape and deliver the next generation of space-based SDA and S&R capabilities.
The ideal candidate will leverage multi-disciplinary security principles to safeguard critical program information (CPI) and technology, ensuring full compliance with federal security regulations. This role demands a proactive individual capable conceiving, applying, and streamlining security processes and operating independently in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
Fun stuff you will do on the job:
Develop, maintain, and implement Program Protection Plans (PPPs) and Security Classification Guides (SCGs) in compliance with relevant DoD and federal security directives.
Provide expert guidance and support on all security disciplines, including physical security (PHYSEC), information security (INFOSEC), personnel security (PERSEC), and operations security (OPSEC).
Conduct thorough risk and vulnerability assessments to identify potential program weaknesses and recommend effective mitigation strategies.
Provide subject matter expertise on a wide range of security concepts, principles, and practices to internal and external customers.
Coordinate with counterintelligence and engineering teams to assess supply chain risks and integrate findings into protection strategies.
Develop and deliver security briefings, training programs, and awareness initiatives for all program personnel.
Review contract security specifications (e.g., DD 254s) to ensure appropriate security requirements are identified and implemented for support contracts.
Assist in identifying export-controlled or International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) restricted technologies and ensure appropriate handling and dissemination instructions are in place.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree and 14+ years of experience in a relevant field such as Security Management, Criminal Justice, National Security, or Information Technology.
• Strong working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) and various DoD manuals and instructions (e.g., DoDM 5200.01 series).
• Familiarity with security clearance processing systems (DISS/JPAS/NBIS) and classification management policies.
• Strong analytical judgment and problem-solving skills to evaluate complex information and make sound decisions.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft formal plans and reports and deliver briefings.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant security and data management tools.
• Active TS/SCI clearance with current T5/SSBI and willingness to obtain SAP accesses and polygraph if required.

Nice To Haves

• Professional certifications such as Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC), Certified Protection Professional (CPP), or CISSP are highly valued.
• Experience in Research and Technology Protection (RTP) or with Special Access Programs (SAPs) and Controlled Access Programs (CAPs).
• Prior military experience in an intelligence or security role
• Experience supporting USSF/SSC space control or SDA programs.

Responsibilities

• Develop, maintain, and implement Program Protection Plans (PPPs) and Security Classification Guides (SCGs) in compliance with relevant DoD and federal security directives.
• Provide expert guidance and support on all security disciplines, including physical security (PHYSEC), information security (INFOSEC), personnel security (PERSEC), and operations security (OPSEC).
• Conduct thorough risk and vulnerability assessments to identify potential program weaknesses and recommend effective mitigation strategies.
• Provide subject matter expertise on a wide range of security concepts, principles, and practices to internal and external customers.
• Coordinate with counterintelligence and engineering teams to assess supply chain risks and integrate findings into protection strategies.
• Develop and deliver security briefings, training programs, and awareness initiatives for all program personnel.
• Review contract security specifications (e.g., DD 254s) to ensure appropriate security requirements are identified and implemented for support contracts.
• Assist in identifying export-controlled or International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) restricted technologies and ensure appropriate handling and dissemination instructions are in place.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees