Information System Security Engineer (ISSE)

SMX is seeking a highly skilled and innovative Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) to spearhead advanced cybersecurity initiatives within the USINDOPACOM J6 portfolio of programs.

Join our elite team to support advanced, proactive cybersecurity solutions. This role is at the cutting edge, focused on upgrading current security operations using out-of-band defensive cyber operations, integrating state-of-the-art AI / ML security solutions, and providing the security expertise to integrate system-wide security technical processes.

You will be instrumental in hands-on system testing, optimizing Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) configurations, executing sophisticated system security engineering, implementing next-generation Zero Trust Architectures (ZTA), and ensuring the robust Assessment and Authorization (A&A) of AI / ML DoD systems in a dynamic, mission-critical environment.

This position is hybrid at Hickam AFB and SMX Pearlridge HQ on Oahu, Hawaii.

This position requires a DoD Secret clearance with eligibility for TS / SCI which requires US citizenship for work on DoD contracts.

Application Deadline : December 15, 2025

Essential Duties & Responsibilities :

• Lead Advanced Cyber Operations : Drive the deployment and management of out-of-band defensive cyber operations (DCO) capabilities to ensure continuous, non-disruptive system monitoring and proactive threat mitigation.
• Integrate AI / ML Security Solutions : Research, evaluate, and integrate state-of-the-art AI / ML solutions into existing security tools (e.g., SIEM, EDR, network sensors) to enhance threat detection, anomaly scoring, and automate incident response.
• System-Wide Security Process Integration : Provide senior technical expertise to integrate security technical processes system-wide, ensuring seamless and standardized application of security controls, configuration management, and vulnerability remediation across the entire enterprise.
• System Hardening & Engineering : Perform system security engineering tasks, including designing secure, resilient system architectures, implementing advanced security controls, and hardening systems to meet and exceed DoD and ZTA standards.
• Zero Trust Architecture (ZTA) : Develop, pilot, and implement cutting-edge Zero Trust security measures, focusing on identity-centric access control, micro-segmentation, and continuous verification across diverse computing environments.
• Threat Detection & SIEM Optimization : Configure and optimize advanced SIEM platforms (e.g., Splunk, Elastic, ArcSight) to collect, correlate, and analyze security event data, building customized analytics and dashboards to support proactive threat hunting and DCO objectives.
• A&A and Compliance : Support the Assessment and Authorization (A&A) process by preparing comprehensive security documentation, conducting rigorous risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with DoD standards (e.g., RMF, NIST 800-53).
• Vulnerability Management : Conduct hands-on security testing, vulnerability assessments, and penetration testing using advanced tools (e.g., Tenable, Nessus, Wireshark, Burp Suite) to identify, analyze, and mitigate complex vulnerabilities in Windows, Linux, Active Directory, and virtualized / containerized environments.
• Technical Reporting : Develop detailed security reports, high-impact SIEM dashboards, and A&A artifacts for high-level briefings to senior military and technical leadership.
• Autonomy : Work independently without supervision to meet aggressive mission objectives and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Up to 25% travel may be required.

Required Skills & Experience

Desired Skills & Experience

#LI-AP1  #CJPOST

The SMX salary determination process takes into account a number of factors, including but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories, relevant prior work experience, specific skills, education and certifications. At SMX, one of our Core Values is to Invest in Our People so we offer a competitive mix of compensation, learning & development opportunities, and benefits. Some key components of our robust benefits include health insurance, paid leave, and retirement.

The proposed salary for this position is :

$115,600 — $192,700 USD

At SMX®, we are a team of technical and domain experts dedicated to enabling your mission. From priority national security initiatives for the DoD to highly assured and compliant solutions for healthcare, we understand that digital transformation is key to your future success.

We share your vision for the future and strive to accelerate your impact on the world. We bring both cutting edge technology and an expansive view of what’s possible to every engagement. Our delivery model and unique approaches harness our deep technical and domain knowledge, providing forward-looking insights and practical solutions to power secure mission acceleration.

SMX is an Equal Opportunity employer including disabilities and veterans.

Selected applicant may be subject to a background investigation and / or education verification.

SMX does not sponsor a new applicant for employment authorization or immigration related support for this position (i.e. H1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1 and O-1, or any EADs or other forms of work authorization that require immigration support from an employer).