Senior Cybersecurity Specialist (DoD)

Zachary Piper Solutions is seeking a Senior Cybersecurity Specialist to support a client in the defense and national security industry. The Senior Cybersecurity Specialist will be responsible for the design, implementation, operations, maintenance, and security of large, complex, and resilient hardware and virtualized infrastructures.

This position requires eligibility for a US Government/Department of Defense Security Clearance

Responsibilities of the Senior Cybersecurity Specialist:

• Serve as the contract Subject Matter Expert (SME) for all matters related to Cybersecurity, Risk Management Framework (RMF), and cyber compliance tools such as eMASS/XACTA, Nessus, HBSS, and Splunk.
• Drive team awareness and implementation of newly emerging Department of Defense cybersecurity requirements.
• Recommend and evaluate new cybersecurity tools to improve automation and efficiency of team processes.
• Ensure Risk Assessments, Exemptions/Exceptions, and RMF packages meet all compliance requirements.
• Oversee monitoring, reporting, and assessment of cyber compliance for all operations and infrastructure in accordance with government policies and schedules.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risk across security systems and infrastructure.
• Interface daily with program management, operations, and engineering leads to ensure coordinated execution of program requirements and improved security posture.
• Conduct manual Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG) reviews.
• Support the development of Plans of Action & Milestones (POA&M) for compliance, authorization, and reauthorization activities.
• Prepare and deliver recurring cybersecurity compliance and vulnerability reports, and brief customers on findings and remediation actions.
• Contribute to the development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Work Instructions, User Guides, and checklists.
• Collaborate closely with the ISSO to develop, maintain, and enhance cybersecurity controls.
  
  

Qualifications of the Senior Cybersecurity Specialist:

• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology, Cybersecurity, or a related discipline (Master’s preferred)
• Extensive experience with RMF, system authorization and accreditation processes, and NIST SP 800-53 controls.
• Hands-on experience accrediting systems using eMASS/XACTA or similar tools, HBSS (or equivalent), and Nessus.
• Current DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification required; IAM Level II or III preferred.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
  
  

Compensation for the Senior Cybersecurity Specialist includes:

• Salary range: $130,000 - $150,000 (depending on experience)
• Full benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, paid holidays, and sick leave as required by law
  
  

This job opens for applications on 04/01/2026. Applications for this job will be accepted for at least 30 days from the posting date.