Senior Cyber Security Engineer

Overview

The Senior Cybersecurity Engineer serves as a technical leader within the National Institute on Aging (NIA) Information System Security Office (ISSO) by designing, implementing, and maintaining security controls that protect NIA information systems, data, and infrastructure. This role ensures compliance with federal cybersecurity standards while proactively identifying and mitigating risks across systems supporting scientific research and administrative operations. This senior-level role is critical to safeguarding systems that support cutting‑edge aging research.

The ideal candidate is proactive, detail‑oriented, and committed to continuous learning in a rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape. The position requires strong technical expertise, familiarity with federal security frameworks, and the ability to collaborate with system owners, researchers, and IT teams.

• Advise on ZTA roadmap and provide system-specific Zero Trust report cards
• Conduct security assessments, vulnerability scans, and risk analyses
• Monitor system security posture and respond to incidents in coordination with NIH security operations
• Implement and manage security tools such as SIEM, endpoint protection, and vulnerability management platforms
• Ensure compliance with FISMA, NIST SP 800‑53, and NIH/HHS security policies
• Design, implement, and maintain cybersecurity controls aligned with NIST RMF (Risk Management Framework)
• Support system Authorization to Operate (ATO) processes, including preparation and maintenance of security documentation (SSP, POA&M, SAR)
• Provide technical guidance to system owners on secure architecture and system hardening
• Support continuous monitoring activities and reporting requirements
• Assist with incident response, forensic analysis, and remediation activities
  
  Participate in audits and provide required artifacts and evidence

• Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 10+ years of progressive experience in cybersecurity engineering, information security, or related roles
• CISSP industry certification
• Hands‑on experience with NIST RMF and federal compliance frameworks (e.g., FISMA, NIST SP 800‑53)
• Experience supporting ATO processes and developing security documentation (SSP, POA&M, SAR)
• Strong understanding of network security, system hardening, identity and access management, and vulnerability management
• Experience with security tools such as SIEM (e.g., Splunk), vulnerability scanners (e.g., Tenable, Qualys), and endpoint protection platforms
• Experience with Zero Trust Architecture principles
• Knowledge of cloud security principles (e.g., AWS, Azure, or GCP)
• Familiarity with incident response processes and security operations
• Must be able to obtain a Public Trust clearance
• On‑site or hybrid, depending on organizational needs
• Works closely with ISSOs, system owners, cloud engineers, and research staff
• Supports a mission‑driven environment focused on protecting sensitive biomedical research data
• Participates in cross‑functional security and compliance initiatives

• Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Assurance, or related field
• Relevant industry certifications such as CGRC, CISA, CISM, CEH, Security+, or GSEC
• Experience with in federal agencies, NIH, or HHS environments
• Knowledge of FedRAMP and cloud authorization processes
• Experience with Dev Sec Ops  practices and automation tools
• Familiarity with container security and modern application architectures
• Strong scripting skills (e.g., Python, Power Shell, Bash)
• Excellent communication skills and ability to translate technical risks for non‑technical stakeholders

$157,000 – $171,000 yearly salary. The salary range reflects the expected pay for this role at the time of posting. The final offer may vary based on skills, experience, geographic location, market conditions, and internal equity. Additional compensation may include performance incentives and program‑specific awards. We do not use salary history to determine compensation, in line with applicable law.

DLH offers a comprehensive benefits package, including personal time off (PTO), medical, dental, vision, supplemental life with AD&D, short and long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, parental leave, legal services, and more. Employees enjoy a 401(k) retirement plan with a matching component. DLH supports career development with training, e‑learning suites, certification preparation, and education assistance at accredited institutions.

DLH Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. DLH will provide reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans who need assistance to apply. DLH is committed to maintaining a fair and authentic interview process.