ISSE/Penetration Tester, Senior

Overview

Senior ISSE/Penetration Tester

woodcons.com

Location: Annapolis Junction, Maryland, USA

Job Type: Full-Time

Shift: Day

Telework: None

Salary Range: **$180,000 per year to $210,000 per year

** Starting salary is based on minimum education and years of experience and increases based on education and/or experience.

We are seeking a Senior Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) / Penetration Tester to join our team of experienced security professionals supporting mission-critical DoD systems. In this role, you will lead and execute penetration testing activities, assess complex security architectures, and provide expert guidance on improving system security across the full lifecycle.

This position is ideal for a seasoned security engineer who thrives in highly technical environments, enjoys hands-on testing, and can translate findings into actionable risk mitigation strategies for both technical teams and program leadership.

Application Process: Interested candidates should submit their resume detailing their qualifications and experience.

Security Clearance Requirements:

This position requires all candidates to be U.S. Citizens and possess an active TS/SCI Security Clearance with a Polygraph.

Responsibilities

• Plan, lead, and execute internal and external penetration testing on enterprise systems, networks, and web applications.
• Conduct security verification testing, vulnerability assessments, and risk analyses throughout the system lifecycle.
• Analyze system implementations against applicable security policies, frameworks, and compliance requirements, recommending and implementing improvements.
• Design and assess information security architectures for large-scale, distributed systems.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate security threats and vulnerabilities using industry-standard tools and methodologies.
• Collaborate with systems engineering, test, integration, and development teams to ensure security requirements are built into system designs.
• Serve as a subject matter expert for security architecture, providing guidance to program managers, customer technical representatives, and internal teams.
• Evaluate the impact of new development and system changes on the operational security posture.
• Support risk management, security control assessments, continuous monitoring, and related information assurance activities.
• Contribute to Agile ceremonies, including Program Increment Planning.
• Mentor team members by sharing knowledge of vulnerabilities, attack vectors, and remediation strategies.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications:

• At least 10 years of relevant experience performing both ISSE and penetration testing functions.
• Extensive hands-on experience with penetration testing and vulnerability assessment tools, such as Nessus, Nmap, and Wireshark.
• Demonstrated knowledge of security architecture principles, including defense-in-depth, access control, authentication, authorization, PKI, and encryption.
• Experience applying the Risk Management Framework (RMF).
• Experience developing, assessing, and implementing IT security policies and secure system configurations.
• Experience performing risk assessments, security audits, and vulnerability remediation.
• Strong ability to manage multiple tasks and systems simultaneously in complex environments.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly articulate technical findings and trade-offs.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, Information Assurance, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• DoD 8570/8140 compliance (IASAE Level II or III).
• Professional certifications such as:
  • CISSP, ISSEP
  • GPEN, GWAPT, CEH
  • CISM, GWEB
• Experience with scripting or automation languages.

About WOOD

Fringe Benefits:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Retirement Plan: 401(k) with company match.
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO policy including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and career advancement.
• Work-Life Balance: Flexible work schedules and remote work options.
• Wellness Programs: Employee assistance programs, wellness initiatives, and gym membership discounts.

Why Join Us?

• Career Growth: Take advantage of professional development opportunities and career advancement. As a vital part of impactful projects, you will have the chance to drive innovation and shape the future of government systems engineering.

• Supportive Environment: Work in a collaborative and flexible environment that values work-life balance. Join a team of top-tier professionals and engage in dynamic, cross-functional collaboration. Your strategic mindset and proactive approach will be highly valued and supported.

• Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. We recognize and reward your expertise and dedication to excellence.

WOOD is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

Salary : $180,000 - $210,000