PDS Security Compliance/Inspection Specialist

Do you specialize in securing classified networks at the physical layer?

Are you an expert in CNSSI 7003 and hardened infrastructure security?

If you have knowledge of Protected Distribution Systems (PDS) and want to lead security operations, we want you on our team at APL!

We are ranked as one ofComputerworld's Top Places to Work in IT six years running, and we are seeking aPDS Security Compliance/Inspection Specialist who will play an instrumental role in the design, implementation, and oversight of secure PDS infrastructures supporting national security systems. You will join a hardworking team of Cybersecurity specialists who are passionate about supporting our Sponsor's mission needs.

As a PDS Security Compliance / Inspection Specialist, you will support the PDS Manager/Owner in the inspection, maintenance, compliance, and operational oversight of Protected Distribution Systems (PDS) supporting classified National Security Systems (NSS). This role supports the secure handling, design, implementation, inspection, and protection of classified PDS infrastructure while ensuring compliance with CNSSI 7003, physical security requirements, and applicable organizational security policies and standards. You will...

• Design, implement, and sustain Protected Distribution System (PDS) solutions that safeguard classified information in accordance with DoD, Intelligence Community, and CNSSI 7003 requirements.
• Perform technical reviews of PDS designs, engineering drawings, installation blueprints, protection methods, and cable pathway documentation to validate security architecture and compliance.
• Lead technical assessments of PDS installations, upgrades, and remediation efforts to ensure secure implementation and accreditation readiness.
• Conduct comprehensive security inspections and technical evaluations of PDS infrastructure to identify vulnerabilities, validate compliance, and recommend corrective actions.
• Analyze physical security protections, intrusion detection measures, tamper-evident mechanisms, and breach response capabilities to strengthen the security posture of classified communications infrastructure.
• Validate PDS implementations against accreditation requirements and security standards for classified computing environments, providing technical recommendations to resolve identified deficiencies.
• Perform periodic technical assessments, compliance reviews, and audit support activities to ensure continued operational effectiveness and adherence to government security requirements.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation related to PDS configurations, inspections, engineering changes, maintenance activities, and lifecycle management.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity engineers, network engineers, facilities engineers, physical security personnel, and government stakeholders to design, implement, and improve secure classified infrastructure.
• Analyze inspection findings, technical risks, and remediation efforts, providing recommendations to improve system integrity and long-term compliance.
• Manage the technical lifecycle of PDS assets, including configuration management, inspection schedules, tamper-evident controls, and infrastructure modifications.
• Investigate suspected tampering, unauthorized modifications, or security incidents affecting PDS infrastructure and support forensic analysis, risk assessments, and corrective actions.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Assurance, or related technical field (or 3+ years of direct PDS experience).
• 3+ years designing, installing, or securing PDS for classified networks.
• Knowledge of CNSSI 7003, DAAPM, NISPOM, and JSIG regulations related to PDS construction, security, and accreditation.
• Experience with hardened conduit systems, encryption methods, cable routing, fiber optics, TEMPEST protections, and penetration-resistant pathways.
• Knowledge of security auditing, compliance assessments, and countermeasure implementation for physical cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Certified in DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II or III (e.g., Security+, CySA+, CISSP, CASP+).
• Hold a current Secret security clearance with the ability to acquire a Top Secret/Tier 5 security clearance within six months. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• 5+ years of experience handling classified network security and PDS compliance for DoD, IC, or federal government facilities.
• Experience leading large-scale, multi-site PDS and encryption solution installations in a classified operational environment.
• Knowledge of emerging physical security technologies, such as fiber optic intrusion detection, microphonic sensors, and electromagnetic shielding.
• Experience in facility security management, SCIF design, or TEMPEST mitigation strategies.
• Currently have an active Top Secret security clearance.

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.