Air and Ground Crypto Analyst - Cyber Capability Center - TS/SCI

Applied Research Solutions is seeking a full-time Air and Ground Crypto Analyst located in Scott AFB, IL to support the Headquarters Cyber Capability Center (HQ CCC). The HQ CCC is charged with identifying cryptographic capability gaps across all operational domains—space, air, cyber, and ground—and with advancing Air Force (AF) Cryptographic Modernization (CM) initiatives and their associated ground, air, space, and weapons/munitions mission directives.

Why Work with us?

Applied Research Solutions (ARS) is respected as a world-class provider of technically integrated solutions as we deliver premier talent and technology across our focused markets for unparalleled, continuous mission support. Awarded a Best Places to Work nominee since 2020, ARS recognizes that without our career- driven, loyal professionals, we would not be able to deliver state-of-the-art results for our mission partners. We firmly believe that prioritizing our employees is of the upmost importance. We provide a culture where our employees are challenged to meet their career goals and aspirations, while still obtaining a work/life balance. ARS employees are motivated through our industry competitive benefits package, our awards and recognition program, and personalized attention from ARS Senior Managers.  

Responsibilities include:

• Analyze the solutions proposed in Tasks 1 and 2 and their ability to effectively close identified capability gaps for Air & Ground systems.
• Conduct analysis during the Air Force development and implementation of the crypto solution and provide data to the Government to verify the solution meets the needs identified in Tasks 1 and 2. To ensure objective evaluation, the Government will actively participate in the development and implementation of data collection and evaluation methodologies. All resulting related data will be subject to Government review and independent verification to validate the solution's effectiveness.
• Evaluate the solution, implementation, transition, and report any deviations from the implementation plan that would impact the warfighter. The cryptographic solutions range in complexity from 1) ordering and installing off-the-shelf crypto devices, 2) major modification research and development efforts, and 3) design and build a new crypto device. When the Air Force selects and implements a solution to a crypto vulnerability, the contractor shall evaluate the selected implementation against current and potential future vulnerabilities.
• During the algorithm transition phase, the contractor shall provide recommendations to CONAUTHs and system users and periodically assess and provide a report (either written or verbal as requested by the Government) on the status to meet the algorithm transition deadline. The contractor shall evaluate the effectiveness of the transition method and implementation.
• Evaluate the selected algorithm-compliant High Assurance Device (HAD), manage and report on the transition of HADs (hardware) on the cryptonet ordering algorithm compliant keying material, and the cutover from the legacy End Cryptographic Unit (ECU) and keying material to the algorithm compliant HAD and keying material.
• Support the RCMP analysis, and advice to HQ CCC and SAF/CN by collecting and reviewing cryptographic device inputs, modify Excel and database documentation, and reports status to SAF.
• Other duties as assigned in the detailed description under Responsibilities.

Qualifications/ Technical Experience Requirements:

• TS Clearance with SCI/SAP Eligibility.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Space Communication Security (COMSEC) principles, encompassing the entire lifecycle management of cryptographic equipment, from development and fielding to sustainment.
• Possesses a minimum of two years of hands-on experience in cryptographic key management, including ordering, generation, distribution, and destruction, utilizing systems such as the Key Management Infrastructure (KMI).
• Exhibits a comprehensive understanding of the strategic roles and operational responsibilities of Controlling Authorities and COMSEC account management.
• In-depth knowledge and experience with strategic level NSA, DoD, and DAF security policies and procedures as they pertain to cryptographic and keying material, associated classification guides pertaining to cryptographic algorithms, equipment, and COMSEC keying material.
• Minimum of two years of advanced staff experience with planning, organizing, and negotiating effectively with leading cross-functional teams using existing Task Management Tool (TMT) or other staff coordination standards, document reviews, program updates, and background papers to drive the adoption of critical recommendations.
• Minimum of two years of advanced staff experience with planning, organizing, and negotiating effectively with leading cross-functional teams to drive the adoption of critical recommendations.

All positions at Applied Research Solutions are subject to background investigations. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background investigation including criminal history and identity check.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-741.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals on the basis of disability, and requires affirmative action by covered prime contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified individuals with disabilities.

This contractor and subcontractor shall abide by the requirements of 41 CFR 60-300.5(a). This regulation prohibits discrimination against qualified protected veterans, and requires affirmative action by covered contractors and subcontractors to employ and advance in employment qualified protected veterans.