Senior Information Systems Security Officer; ISSO Security Clearance

About Independent Software

Who are we? Independent Software is a consulting, product, and solutions firm dedicated to the practical application of software and system engineering technologies to solve complex problems. We bring together world class engineers with proven engineering best practices, domain expertise, commercial technologies, and proven agile management approaches to create high value solutions aimed at helping our customers meet their most critical business and mission objectives.

We are focused on continual learning and evolution. We don’t do things because "that’s the way we’ve always done things"; we listen to our employees and adapt to the changing marketplace. We look at the big picture and encourage our engineers to get training and certifications in emerging technologies that will help shape our customer’s mission. We’ve been profitable year after year.

We’re always on the lookout for great engineers to join the team and we recognize that our employees are the heart and soul of what we do. We focus on recruiting talented people, treating them right, and then allowing them to do what they do best. No red tape. No micromanagement. Smart people want to work with smart people, and we love people who are passionate about what they do and finding ways to do it better.

• Competitive salary
• Company Sponsored Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans
• Company Paid Long Term Disability, Short Term Disability and Life Insurance
• Employee Assistance Program
• 401(k) Profit Sharing Plan and Trust
• A generous Paid Time Off and Holiday package
• Paid training! We encourage all employees to seek out training opportunities like conferences, certification courses and seminars.
• Right work‑life balance

Independent Software is an Equal Opportunity Employer (EOE, M/F/D/V).

Annapolis Junction, MD – Full Time

As an Information Systems Security Officer at Independent Software, you will play a critical role in strengthening and defending the security posture of mission‑critical systems supporting the Department of Defense and Intelligence Community. You will lead cybersecurity efforts across the full system lifecycle, from initial design and Risk Management Framework (RMF) implementation through system authorization, continuous monitoring, and ongoing sustainment. In this role, you will serve as a key security authority for assigned systems and programs, ensuring compliance with evolving DoD and IC policies while proactively identifying and mitigating risks to classified environments.

You will work closely with system administrators, engineers, and program leadership to integrate security into system architecture and operations, ensuring security is embedded—not bolted on—throughout the lifecycle. You will drive system authorization activities, oversee vulnerability management efforts, and guide remediation strategies to maintain operational readiness and accreditation. Additionally, you will provide technical leadership in interpreting security requirements, implementing controls, and responding to emerging threats, while continuously improving processes to enhance resilience, compliance, and mission effectiveness.

Your expertise will directly support national security objectives by ensuring systems remain secure, compliant, and capable of operating in high‑threat, high‑stakes environments.

• Manage daily security operations for information systems ensuring compliance with Department of Defense and Intelligence Community cybersecurity policies, directives, and frameworks
• Support and enforce information assurance initiatives across programs, systems, and enclaves to strengthen overall security posture
• Conduct vulnerability and risk assessments to support accreditation decisions and ensure system integrity throughout development and sustainment
• Administer configuration control for security software, hardware, and firmware ensuring all changes are evaluated for potential security impacts
• Create and maintain critical security documentation, including:
  • System Security Plans (SSPs)
  • Risk Assessment Reports…