IT Security Architect

IT Security Architect Montana State University – Net Sys/Comm Analyst III (Working Title: IT Security Architect) Position Overview The Security Architect will lead efforts to coordinate the development, documentation, and implementation of initiatives to improve the security of MSU’s IT environment. Using the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (CSF) as a guide, the role assesses the security posture of the four‑campus IT environment and coordinates initiatives to identify, document, and implement standards to improve confidentiality, integrity, and availability of MSU’s IT resources. In supervision of the Chief Information Security Officer, this full‑time position works closely with technical and administrative staff across the four campuses and the IT Community to maintain and improve the security of MSU’s data and IT resources. Duties and Responsibilities Develop and maintain security policies and standards for MSU’s four‑campus IT environment. Conduct or coordinate risk assessments and audits using the NIST CSF and other NIST frameworks (NIST 800‑171) to identify and prioritize opportunities to mitigate threats and risks to MSU’s systems and data. Evaluate and recommend solutions and technologies to improve MSU’s security posture. Collaborate with interdisciplinary units to identify, prioritize, and implement mitigating controls for identified risks, including networking, system administration, enterprise services, desktop and user support, and application development. Assist in the planning, coordination, and response to security incidents. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree and a track record of progressively responsible experience in information technology, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Advanced knowledge of network protocols, firewalls, and associated risks. Hands‑on systems and networking administration experience. Demonstrated experience supporting ERP and other enterprise software and Web application environments. Demonstrated experience with data loss prevention, vulnerability management, threat hunting, anti‑malware tools, and SIEMs in a higher education environment. Demonstrated experience providing both technical and functional users with training related to security best practices. Demonstrated experience using a risk‑based approach to identify and prioritize new initiatives. Demonstrated experience with assessing functional requirements to ensure a balanced approach to security with business needs in mind. Demonstrated experience with implementation and maintenance of principle of least privilege. Preferred Qualifications A Bachelor’s degree with an emphasis on cybersecurity (Master’s degree preferred). Demonstrated ability to coordinate among interdisciplinary units to work toward a common goal. Experience working in a multi‑campus higher education environment. Experience responding to, and helping to manage, security incidents. The Successful Candidate Will Communicate effectively both verbally and in written form. Show discretion in handling sensitive information and circumstances, including high‑stress incident handling. Multi‑task, prioritize, and rapidly re‑prioritize a variety of tasks at different levels of complexity and urgency. Additional Information This position is not eligible for sponsorship. Desired start date: upon completion of a successful search. Number of vacancies: 1. Contact Information John Williams – Phone: 406‑994‑7841 – Email: john.williams25@montana.edu EEO Statement Montana State University is an equal opportunity employer. MSU does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law. In compliance with the Montana Veteran's Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. Application Instructions Required documents: 1) Resume, 2) Cover Letter. To apply, visit https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/49143 #J-18808-Ljbffr