New

Cyber Security Systems Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University
paid time off, sick time, remote work
United States, Virginia, Reston
1850 Centennial Park Drive (Show on map)
Jan 23, 2026
APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS: CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday. If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants. Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants. POSITION SPECIFICS The Cyber and Information Security Division of The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University, is seeking a Cyber Systems Security Engineer (CSSE) to support Information Security requirements of our classified networks. This team helps to protect ARL's network and systems by providing proactive security measures, assessing and acting on risks, and ensuring compliance. We are looking for someone who wants to tackle a constant need to solve complex problems, is comfortable communicating and collaborating with a diverse audience, and can easily work alone or in a group. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply. You will: Aid in the development, validation, and submission of information system security plans, security test and evaluation plans, certification and accreditation or authorization packages, and plans of action and milestones in support of compliance requirements Take part in conducting, developing, planning, and coordinating risk assessments of information systems in development, test, production and research environments as required by established or newly determined compliance/audit requirements Conduct assessment and review of systems and networks within the environment to identify where systems/networks deviate from acceptable configurations, enclave policy, and local policy Aid in the development of training material related to compliance and audit requirements to assist employees in individual compliance/audits as applicable Complete technical requirements for networks and systems such as; vulnerability scanning, review of security/event logs, network analysis, security configuration review, and incident response on an as-needed basis Required skills and experience include: An active TS/SCI security clearance with Counter-Intelligence poly Assessment and Authorization with experience using RMF Knowledge and application of NIST 800-53, ICD 503, Department of Defense Directives, and regulatory requirements Operational experience, with familiarity in security/event log auditing Security plan development and/or continuous monitoring for compliance with security plans The ability to certify and maintain information security related certifications. Security+ and CISSP are the most ideal (some other useful certs, CASP, GSEC, CISM) Task and project leadership qualities, to include peer mentoring, progress reporting, ownership of responsibility, etc. Effective analytical, problem solving, and communication skills Efficient organizational, multitasking, and time management abilities with the aptitude to work independently, as part of a team, and across multiple teams in various disciplines Preferred skills and experience include: Vulnerability scanning and mitigation utilizing Nessus, ACAS, SCC, or similar tool Windows or UNIX/Linux operating system administration and secure configuration Network infrastructure (switch, router, firewall) Cisco SEIM management or use for analysis, such as Splunk or ELK VMWare and management of Virtual Machines Policy and procedure development Familiarity with content and application of DISA Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) Definition and interpretation of audit requirements Development and support of a certification test plans and continuous monitoring plans Your working location will be fully on-site, located in Reston, VA. This position may require periodic travel to satellite offices. MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS If filled as Cyber Security Systems Engineer - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree 1+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Cyber Security Systems Engineer - Professional, this position requires: Bachelor's Degree No prior relevant work experience required; previous relevant work experience accepted in lieu of education. Required Certifications: None ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu. BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require candidates topossess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen. SALARY & BENEFITS The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $61,800.00 - $102,300.00.THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure Penn 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. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here. EEO IS THE LAW Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473. Federal Contractors Labor Law Poster PA State Labor Law Poster Penn State Policies Copyright Information Hotlines