Security V

Vantage Systems, Inc. (Vantage), is a pioneering force in the realm of multi-disciplinary engineering services for spaceflight projects. Since our establishment in 1992, we have consistently delivered progressive solutions to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Department of Defense (DoD) space flight community earning recognition for our unwavering integrity and dedication to delivering top-tier solutions that align with the U.S. space program missions.

For over three decades, Vantage’s commitment to quality service and innovation has driven our rapid growth. Fueled by a deep understanding of the ever-evolving U.S. space program, we continuously pioneer progressive solutions to address NASA’s & DoD’s pressing challenges. Our unwavering commitment to exceptional service is built upon a foundation of ethics, honesty, and a people-centric approach. Join us as we forge ahead, combining our expertise with NASA’s legacy of excellence to shape the future of space exploration.

We are looking for highly qualified candidates for a contract positioned onsite at the Kirtland AFB in Albuquerque, NM supporting the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) SSHINE contract.

Job description:

The Cybersecurity Lead (Security V) serves as the senior cybersecurity authority responsible for protecting satellite ground systems and ensuring full compliance with Department of the Air Force and U.S. Space Force cybersecurity policies. This role provides strategic and operational leadership across cybersecurity architecture, accreditation, risk management, and continuous monitoring activities. The Cybersecurity Lead is accountable for integrating cybersecurity throughout the system lifecycle, maintaining accreditation posture, and ensuring mission systems remain resilient against evolving threats.

Key Responsibilities:

Cybersecurity Strategy & Governance:

• Lead development and execution of the cybersecurity strategy for satellite ground systems, ensuring compliance with Department of Defense (DoD) and U.S. Space Force policies, including full implementation of Risk Management Framework (RMF) controls
• Serve as the cybersecurity authority for program execution, ensuring alignment with CNSSI 1253, DISA STIGs, and DoD cybersecurity directives
• Apply Zero Trust principles to safeguard satellite ground system architectures against unauthorized access

Accreditation & Compliance:

• Lead and oversee the Authority to Operate (ATO) process, ensuring accreditation packages, vulnerability assessments, and supporting documentation meet U.S. Space Force cybersecurity standards
• Maintain operational proficiency in eMASS and working knowledge of the Cybersecurity Risk Management Construct (CSRMC)
• Lead teams through external cybersecurity audits and internal compliance reviews to ensure regulatory adherence
• Support SAP environment cybersecurity requirements and accreditation activities

Lifecycle Cyber Integration:

• Integrate cybersecurity across the engineering lifecycle using DevSecOps principles and continuous ATO (cATO) methodologies
• Ensure cybersecurity is embedded throughout design, development, testing, deployment, and sustainment processes
• Configure and deploy advanced cybersecurity tools and technologies, including SIEM platforms, endpoint protection systems, and vulnerability scanning tools

Threat & Risk Management:

• Identify system vulnerabilities and conduct threat and risk assessments
• Develop and implement mitigation strategies to reduce risk and strengthen system resilience
• Develop and maintain incident response plans to prepare program teams for cybersecurity events and breaches
• Provide technical oversight of cybersecurity monitoring tools (e.g., Nessus, Splunk, SolarWinds)

Stakeholder Engagement & Leadership:

• Serve as the primary cybersecurity point of contact for customer interactions, including U.S. Space Force, DISA, and other DoD entities
• Provide technical direction to cross-functional engineering teams to ensure secure system implementation
• Mentor and train junior team members and program staff to strengthen cybersecurity knowledge and culture across the organization

Minimum Qualifications:

• Education/ Years of Relevant Experience: 20+ years of experience with BS degree or 15+ years of experience with MS degree or 10+ years of experience with PhD degree
• Clearance: TS with eligibility for SCI Poly