Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) Linux/RHEL

Description

The company needs a Linux-focused Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) to handle security, accreditation, and continuous monitoring for mission-critical systems in classified environments.

The role suits a cybersecurity engineer who is also skilled at administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL). You will work directly on Linux systems to apply security controls, fix configuration problems, close vulnerabilities, and support Risk Management Framework (RMF) compliance.

You will work alongside systems engineers, software developers, and cybersecurity staff to design, build, and maintain secure systems for national security missions.

Job category: Security. Full-time, regular position. Minimum clearance to start: TS/SCI.

Responsibilities

• Engineer, configure, troubleshoot, and harden RHEL systems by hand.
• Apply and verify DISA STIG compliance by running SCAP scans, reviewing the results, and fixing security weaknesses.
• Diagnose Linux security settings covering SELinux, SSH, file permissions, authentication, services, and networking.
• Lead or support Assessment and Authorization (A&A) work to earn and keep an Authorization to Operate (ATO) under RMF.
• Write and update security documents such as System Security Plans (SSPs), Security Assessment Reports (SARs), Security Control Traceability Matrices (SCTMs), and Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms).
• Run security assessments and ongoing monitoring against ICD 503, NIST 800-53, CNSSI, and applicable DoD requirements.
• Work with systems, network, software, and DevOps engineers so security requirements are built into each stage of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC).
• Review system designs, infrastructure changes, and software settings to find security risks and propose fixes.
• Write Bash or Python scripts that automate compliance checks, vulnerability scans, and routine admin tasks.

Requirements

• Required: 5+ years of combined experience in cybersecurity engineering, information assurance, Linux administration, or a related technical field.
• Required: At least 2 years of hands-on Linux administration, ideally on RHEL 8 or 9.
• Required: Solid command-line skills covering filesystems, permissions, user management, package management with DNF or YUM, systemd services, log analysis, SSH, and basic network troubleshooting.
• Required: Hands-on work implementing Linux DISA STIGs, running SCAP scans, and remediating vulnerabilities.
• Required: Working knowledge of Linux security tools, including SELinux, firewalld, authentication, and access controls.
• Required: Experience with Bash, Python, or both, for system administration or security automation.
• Required: Strong grasp of RMF, ICD 503, NIST 800-53, and the ATO lifecycle.
• Required: DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II certification, such as Security+ CE, CySA+, SSCP, or another qualifying certification.
• Required: Bachelor's degree in a technical field, or equivalent relevant experience.
• Required: Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Desired: Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) or Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) certification.
• Desired: Experience running RHEL in classified, disconnected, or air-gapped environments.
• Desired: Familiarity with Puppet, Ansible, Red Hat Satellite, or Red Hat Identity Management (IdM/FreeIPA).
• Desired: Experience with ACAS, Nessus, SCAP Compliance Checker, or similar vulnerability scanners.
• Desired: Experience with Git, GitLab, DevSecOps, and automated compliance tooling.
• Desired: Experience supporting Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) or other highly secure mission systems.
• Desired: Advanced cybersecurity certifications such as CISSP or CASP+.

Conditions

Onsite 100% of the time in Sterling, VA.

Up to 25% travel within the continental US. Domestic and international trips may also be available.

Salary range: $86,600 - $181,800.

Final pay depends on factors such as location, Federal Government contract labor categories and wage rates, relevant experience, skills, education, and certifications.

Benefits

• Flexible time off that lets you take the time you need.
• Access to learning resources for career growth.
• Comprehensive benefits covering healthcare, wellness, financial support, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off.