COMSEC Custodian

KTS develops complex, cutting‑edge aircraft avionics hardware and software solutions supporting digital interoperability, survivability, situational awareness, and data collection. We are seeking an experienced Communications Security (COMSEC) Manager to oversee all aspects of our COMSEC program in accordance with applicable NSA, DCSA, and government directives.
This is a fully on‑site role based at our Des Plaines, IL facility.

The COMSEC Manager will serve as the primary COMSEC Custodian, responsible for the accountability, control, safeguarding, and destruction of all COMSEC material and equipment entrusted to the facility. This individual will work closely with the Facility Security Officer (FSO) and senior leadership to ensure full compliance with all relevant directives and requirements.

Custodian Duties

• Serve as the primary COMSEC Custodian and account holder for all COMSEC material assigned to the facility
• Maintain accurate and auditable records of all COMSEC equipment, key material, and controlled cryptographic items (CCI)
• Conduct and document routine inventories in accordance with NSA/CSS Policy Manual 3‑16 and applicable SOPs
• Process all COMSEC material receipts, transfers, and destructions with proper documentation
• Report COMSEC incidents, discrepancies, or compromises to the FSO and appropriate government authorities in a timely manner

Program Management & Compliance

• Implement and maintain the facility COMSEC program in accordance with NSA, DCSA, and customer requirements
• Draft and update COMSEC‑related Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and program documentation
• Coordinate with government COMSEC representatives and auditors during inspections and assessments
• Manage COMSEC user training and ensure all personnel with COMSEC access are appropriately trained
• Advise program managers and technical staff on COMSEC requirements and best practices
• Interface with DCSA, NSA, and contracting officers on all COMSEC‑related matters

Equipment & Key Management

• Manage the lifecycle of all COMSEC equipment including issuance, maintenance scheduling, and disposition
• Oversee electronic key management using OTAR (Over‑the‑Air Rekeying) and other approved methods
• Coordinate with Type 1 cryptographic equipment vendors and program offices as required
• Ensure COMSEC material is stored in accordance with applicable requirements

• Minimum 5 years of experience in COMSEC, with at least 2 years as a COMSEC Custodian or Account Manager
• Active U.S. Government security clearance at the Secret level or above (clearance must be current and in good standing).
• In‑depth knowledge of NSA/CSS Policy Manual 3‑16, CNSSI 4005, and related COMSEC directives
• Demonstrated experience with COMSEC key management, including physical and electronic key handling
• Familiarity with Controlled Cryptographic Items (CCI) and NSA Type 1/Type 2 encryption equipment
• Experience with COMSEC Management Software (CMS) and the Electronic Key Management System (EKMS) or its successor Key Management Infrastructure (KMI)
• Strong working knowledge of DCSA and DoD security regulations as they pertain to COMSEC
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to maintain precise records
• Must be able to work on‑site full‑time at our Des Plaines, IL office.

• Completion of NSA COMSEC Custodian training or equivalent government‑sponsored course
• Experience as an FSO or Assistant FSO
• Prior U.S. military, government, or intelligence community service in a security‑related role

We recognize that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. As a result, we aim for flexibility in structuring competitive compensation offers to ensure we are able to attract the best candidates. As required by law in this state, the estimated salary range for this position is $90,000‑$130,000 and represents our good faith estimate as to what our ideal candidates are likely to expect.

We tailor our offers within the range based on organizational needs, internal equity, market data, geographic zone, and the selected candidate’s experience, education, industry knowledge, location, technical…