Senior Information Security Analyst/Information Systems Security Officer

Saalex is seeking a Senior Information Security Analyst/Information Systems Security Officer in Ridgecrest, CA. Saalex Solutions, a division of Saalex Corp., is an Engineering and Information Technology Services company with a focus on Test Range Operations and Management, Engineering and Logistics Services, Data Analytics and Business Intelligence Services and Information Technology Services.

Position Type: Full-Time

Salary: $112k - $130k annually (depending on experience)

Work Location: Onsite.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a Senior-level Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) to support the Sub Sonic Aerial Targets (SSAT) program. The ISSO will be based at China Lake, CA, with program support responsibilities tied to Point Mugu operations. This position requires the ability to work independently, including preparing professional reports and cybersecurity documentation without direct oversight. The ideal candidate will also be a strong team player who is willing to embrace challenges, operate outside their comfort zone, and thrive in a dynamic and evolving program environment.

Essential Functions:

• Serve as the on-site cybersecurity focal point for SSAT information systems at China Lake.
• Implement and maintain compliance with DoD Risk Management Framework (RMF) and NIST controls.
• Prepare, update, and maintain System Security Plans (SSPs), POA&Ms, and accreditation documentation.
• Independently draft, review, and submit technical and compliance reports for government review.
• Support the eMASS system for tracking ATO packages and compliance records.
• Perform routine STIG reviews, ACAS vulnerability scans reviews using eMASSter to facilitate POA&M generation for input to eMASS, and patch compliance activities.
• Manage user accounts, access control, and system audit logs in alignment with Navy IA policy.
• Provide cybersecurity awareness and best-practice guidance to program staff.
• Coordinate with China Lake and Point Mugu government cybersecurity leads to support audits, inspections, and readiness assessments.
• Report progress, risks, and issues to the Operations Manager and government sponsor.

Key Attributes:

• Team player mindset, able to collaborate effectively with government and contractor teammates.
• Comfortable being uncomfortable — able to adapt, adjust, and learn in fast-changing, high-pressure environments.
• Willingness to embrace challenges and drive solutions where processes may be unclear or evolving.
• Ability to work independently at China Lake while staying connected with Point Mugu program leadership.
• Professional maturity and confidence in direct government engagement.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving skills to balance multiple tasks.
• Commitment to mission success and maintaining secure, accredited systems.

Professional Development (within 1 year)

The selected candidate is expected to complete the following desired development courses within the first year (company-supported):

• DAU Cybersecurity and ISSO training (e.g., CLE 074, Cybersecurity Fundamentals, RMF for DoD IT).
• Advanced DoD RMF/ISSO-focused training (such as eMASS user training).
• DISA STIG & ACAS Vulnerability Management workshops.
• LinkedIn Learning / equivalent courses on report writing, professional communication, and technical documentation.
• Begin progression toward an advanced certification (CISSP, CASP+, or CISM) if not already held.

Requirements

Required:

• Must meet DoD 8140/8570 Information Assurance Workforce requirements — either through an approved certification (e.g., CompTIA Security+ CE) or education equivalency as defined by the Navy COOL framework (Navy COOL ISSO/ISSM Matrix).
• 5-7 years of cybersecurity or ISSO experience within DoD environments.
• Knowledge of RMF process, eMASS, and DoD IA controls.
• Hands-on experience with STIGs and ACAS scans.
• Demonstrated ability to independently write and deliver professional reports, findings, and compliance documentation.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• 5-7 years of related experience with a MA/MS Degree, OR 7-10 years with a BA/BS Degree, OR 10+ years of experience and a HS Diploma/GED with advanced certifications.

Desired:

• Advanced certification (CISSP, CASP+, or equivalent).
• Prior experience supporting Navy aviation/range programs.
• Familiarity with Cross-Domain Solutions (CDS) and secure data handling.
• Experience with Navy cybersecurity toolsets and compliance inspections.

Education:

5-7 years of related experience with a MA/MS Degree, OR 7-10 years with a BA/BS Degree, OR 10+ years of experience and a HS Diploma/GED with advanced certifications.

Security Clearance:

Active Secret clearance with the ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance required. Requirements to obtain a clearance include US Citizenship, security investigation, etc.

Benefits

• Health Care Plan (Medical, Dental & Vision)
• Retirement Plan (401k, IRA)
• Life Insurance (Basic, Voluntary & AD&D)
• Paid Time Off (Vacation, Sick & Public Holidays)
• Short Term & Long Term Disability
• Training & Development
• Wellness Resources
• Stock Option Plan