Security Engineer

Job Description

SUMMARY

The City of Gainesville is seeking a skilled Security Engineer to join our Technology department. This role is vital to ensuring the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of city systems and data. The ideal candidate will bring deep expertise in core IT security practices and demonstrate familiarity with Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) compliance standards. This role is ideal for someone who thrives on building new technology solutions from the ground up, enjoys continuous learning, and is passionate about automating operational tasks and scripting to maximize efficiency.

We’re looking for a creative problem-solver who can take initiative, work independently, and help modernize our security posture across a mid-sized environment. The successful candidate will have a track record of providing security solutions that enable business outcomes while ensuring confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems rather than focusing on implementing restrictive controls that hinder operations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Design, implement, and manage security solutions to protect city infrastructure, networks, and data.

Monitor and respond to security incidents, vulnerabilities, and threats across systems and applications.

Conduct regular security assessments, audits, and penetration tests to identify risks and recommend mitigation strategies.

Maintain and enforce security policies, procedures, and standards in alignment with CJIS and other regulatory frameworks.

Collaborate with IT teams to integrate security into system architecture, software development, and operational workflows.

Manage endpoint protection, firewalls, intrusion detection / prevention systems (IDS / IPS), SIEM / SOAR platforms, IAM, CASB, MFA, SSO, and more.

Provide training and guidance to staff on cybersecurity best practices and awareness.

Stay current with emerging threats, technologies, and compliance requirements relevant to municipal IT environments and incorporate threat feeds into operational security tooling.

NON-ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS

Attends work on a continuous and regular basis.

Performs related duties as required or assigned by the Information Security Officer (ISO)

QUALIFICATIONS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job function satisfactorily. Below are the required education, experience, knowledge, skills and abilities to perform the essential functions.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in cyber security, computer science, management information systems, business administration, or a related field. (or equivalent experience)

Experience with CJIS Security Policy implementation and compliance preferred.

Experience working in a government or public sector IT environment preferred.

Three (3) years of experience in cyber security engineering, preferably with a mid-sized organization.

DESIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC)

CompTIA Security+

Microsoft Certified : Azure Security Engineer Associate

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Strong understanding of network security, identity and access management (IAM), M365 security, cloud security, and vulnerability management.

Familiarity with CIS, NIST, ISO 27001, and other security frameworks.

Proficiency with security tools such as firewalls, endpoint detection and response, network detection and response, SIEM, SOAR, email security and web security gateways.

Proficiency with a scripting language. E.g. Python, PowerShell

Excellent problem-solving, communication, and documentation skills.

Ability to manage confidential information with a high level of discretion and professionalism.

Knowledge of audit processes and the ability to interface with internal / external auditors and regulators.

Knowledge of security performance metrics and reporting tools.

Ability to foster a culture of security while enabling operational excellence through the use of technology and innovation.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must possess certain physical abilities and be able to withstand work related environmental conditions.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is often required to sit for prolonged periods of time.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

May be required to work and attend meetings outside regular business hours.

Requires occasional travel to City offices and facilities for on-site support coordination.

Note :

May Require Assessment(s).

May fill multiple positions.

May establish an eligibility list.

Come join our team! The City of Gainesville offers a competitive benefits package and opportunities to grow both professionally and personally.

All ‘regular’ employees are eligible for traditional benefits such as health insurance, life insurance, paid leave, 11 paid a holidays a year, a pension plan and a deferred compensation plan, but we also o ff er great things like on-site fi tness centers, tuition reimbursement, on-site medical sta ff and a wellness program to keep you healthy and happy. Please note; benefits are not available for temporary employees.

Equal Opportunity

The City of Gainesville is an equal opportunity / affirmative action employer and does not discriminate in hiring. Minorities, women and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Individuals with a disability, who require special accommodations during the selection process, should notify the Human Resources Department at 352-334-5077 or TDD / TTY at 352-334-2292.

Veterans' Preference

Veterans are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ Preference ensures that veterans and eligible persons are given consideration at each step of the selection process. However, preference does not guarantee that a veteran or other eligible person will be the candidate selected to fill the position. Section 295.07, Florida Statutes (F.S.) specifies who is eligible for Veterans’ Preference. State of Florida residency is not required for Veterans’ Preference.

If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact recruiting at or by calling 352-334-5077.