Staff Mission COMSEC Engineer

YOUR MISSION

As a Staff Mission COMSEC Engineer, you will be the critical technical expert who designs, tests, deploys, and certifies mission-critical cryptographic capabilities for multiple space and ground systems currently in development. This is an ideal role for a security-focused technologist who wants to build encrypted systems from the ground up for cutting-edge space platforms and critical defense programs.

This hands-on role requires deep technical expertise across a variety of NSA High Assurance devices securing data-in-transit across actively architected space and ground systems. You will design, deploy, measure, and document technical security methodologies and controls spanning the full mission lifecycle — including satellite operations, ground segments, Command & Control (C2) systems, and mission planning platforms — while supporting the end-to-end journey to Authority to Operate (ATO). You will ensure our systems meet the most rigorous federal security standards while accelerating delivery of critical warfighting capabilities to Department of War and Intelligence Community customers.

Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering design, deployment, testing, and certification of cryptographic systems for space-based assets and ground C2 systems, providing technical leadership to cross-functional engineering teams across multiple product lines
• Stay current on emerging technologies relevant to cryptographic product development and implementation
• Maintain required documentation for all controlled equipment and keying material (KEYMAT) per USG regulations and best practices
• Act as lead architect for resilient and survivable cryptographic security architectures and designs
• Work with cross-functional engineering teams through the testing and validation of communication and command links to ensure maximum usability, stability, and system survivability
• Conduct and document risk assessments and provide sound mitigation strategies
• Identify and remediate findings from STIGs, vulnerability scans, penetration testing, and SCA activities to gain and maintain system Authorization to Operate (ATO)
• Ensure compliance with NIST 800-53, CNSSI 1253, ICD 503, JSIG, and other applicable frameworks for National Security Systems (NSS) handling classified information up to TS/SCI

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years in security architecture or encryption engineering, with demonstrated experience designing and deploying cryptographic systems in operational environments
• Active Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility required
• DoD 8140 IAT Level III certification (CASP+, CISSP, CISA, or equivalent) required
• Experience with TEMPEST requirements and processes, specifically for space systems
• Experience with design and successful deployment of NSA Type 1 cryptographic solutions in operational systems
• Familiarity with space system architectures including satellite operations, ground segments, and TT&C systems
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to articulate security requirements to engineering teams, executive leadership, and government stakeholders
• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Engineering, or related field (or equivalent experience)

Preferred Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance with polygraph
• Direct experience securing C2 systems, space systems, or other DoD mission systems
• Experience supporting DoD or IC customers through ATO, re-ATO, or continuous authorization
• Familiarity with Cross Domain Solutions (CDS), data guards, or other information flow control technologies
• Understanding of zero trust architectures and modern identity solutions applied to classified environments

Work Environment

• This role will be onsite in Denver, CO (preferred) or Long Beach, CA #LI-Onsite 
• Fast-paced, mission-critical environment supporting national security space operations
• Requires coordination across distributed teams including spacecraft engineers, ground operations, and government partners
• May require participation in on-call rotation for security incident response and mission-critical system support
• High degree of autonomy and ownership as a trusted, cleared team member
• Occasional travel to government sites, launch facilities, or partner locations may be required

What We Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience and clearance level
• Opportunity to drive security posture for cutting-edge space systems with national security impact
• Professional development support including conferences, training, and security certifications
• Collaborative culture working alongside spacecraft engineers, mission operators, and experienced security professionals
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Compensation

• Colorado Base Salary: $160,000–$265,000
• California Base Salary: $170,000–$280,000 for Long Beach
• Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave

Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.