Contractor Special Security Officer; CSSO​/Facility Security Officer; FSO

Position Summary

We are searching for an energetic, detail-oriented, analytical, and self‑starting security professional to operate as a Contractor Special Security Officer (CSSO)/Facility Security Officer (FSO) in our Security Services Office at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State, located in Reston, VA. In this position, you will be a key contributor of our security team, building high‑trust partnerships with our team and management as you support collateral and sensitive compartmented information programs.

ARL is an authorized DoD Skill Bridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Location:

Fully on‑site in Reston, VA. Periodic travel to remote locations may be required.

• Follow the 32 CFR Part 117 National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual, Intelligence Community Directive, and other government regulations to administer aspects of the Department of Defense, Intelligence, and other industrial security programs while ensuring compliance with government and ARL security policies and procedures.
• Prepare SF86/eApplication and Sensitive Compartmented Information customer nomination packages, and coordinate with customer security representatives to process security clearance requirements.
• Prepare and issue subcontractor DD254s and visitor authorization letters, validate/coordinate cleared visitors, and create/program employee badges.
• Interface with program management to address specific security items for each program/contract, protect classified government information, monitor security procedures, and ensure compliance with all program aspects, including personnel, physical, and administrative security systems and procedures.
• Interpret security policies and directives, develop and conduct various security and security education program briefings, and provide guidance and train employees on access, classification, marking, and record maintenance.
• Maintain classified storage and audit documents, investigate losses and security violations, and recommend corrective actions.
• Maintain the alarm system, including updates, combination changes, and records.
• Maintain files for customers and audits.
• Prepare for and represent ARL in bi‑annual self‑inspections.

• Active security clearance at the Top‑Secret level or higher with the ability to obtain SCI eligibility.
• Experience with Defense Information System for Security, Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Process, National Industrial Security System, and National Background Investigations Services.
• Industrial security knowledge of 32 CFR, 117 NISPOM, and ICD.
• Personnel and physical security, visitor control, and document handling expertise.
• Security management experience in a contractor community.
• Completion of FSO Program Management for Possessing Facilities in Center for Development of Security Excellence.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to effectively manage ambiguity and multi‑task in a fast‑paced and agile environment.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.

• Completion of SCI Contractors Special Security Officer (CSSO) course.
• Completion of additional CDSE correspondence courses.
• Knowledge of DOD/IC policy and nomination process.

Integrated Security Specialist – Senior Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree and 6+ years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. No required certifications.

Integrated Security Specialist – Advanced Professional:
Bachelor’s Degree and 3+ years of relevant experience; or equivalent combination of education and experience. No required certifications.

Employment requires successful completion of background checks in accordance with University policies. All positions at ARL require the ability to obtain a government security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required. Pre‑employment drug screening is also required.

Salary range: $76,700.00 – $. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full‑time employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement plans, paid time off, and a 75% tuition discount for employees, spouses, and children.

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to a disability, please contact .