Team Lead, Special Programs

The Security Services Department’s overall mission is to identify and counter security threats to the MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s mission of development of game-changing technology in support of National Security, including guarding against compromise by foreign intelligence agencies and insider threats. To accomplish this mission, this department formulates and implements policies, plans, and actions designed to protect facilities against threats of vandalism, accidental destruction, and sabotage; and safeguards personnel, classified and unclassified information systems, personal identifiable information, property, and other assets from exploitation and recruitment by foreign intelligence agencies.

We foster a diverse and inclusive culture where security professionals from a wide range of backgrounds are empowered to solve complex security problems in close collaboration with Laboratory research teams and Government counterparts. Our people are our most important resource, and we encourage a casual and flexible opportunity-filled working environment that is technology-focused. Where mission needs can be met, the Security Services Department encourages flexible schedules and hybrid remote work arrangements.

 MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC) whose mission is research in support of National Security.
* Mission - The Security Services Department’s (SSD) overall mission is to identify and counter security threats to the MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s mission of development of game-changing technology in support of national security, including guarding against compromise by foreign intelligence agencies and insider threats.
* Culture – We foster an inclusive, opportunity-filled environment of empowered team members from diverse backgrounds.

Lead a team of security professionals that are driven to solve complex security problems in collaboration with Laboratory research teams and Government counterparts across the following industrial security areas:
* Leadership & Management: Directly manages teams supporting collateral and special security operations across all security disciplines; participates in interview and selection process, supervision and scheduling, performance appraisal, security program execution, career advancement and performance management processes for team.
* Audit & Compliance: Leads portfolio self-inspection, government inspection programs and associated corrective action plan execution, and maintenance of overall security posture utilizing internal and external tools.
* Business Process Improvement: Defines and tracks key performance indicators across portfolio, implementing process improvements and efficiencies to drive organizational success. In addition, navigates Government mandated changes in both technology and process, seamlessly integrates these into the MIT LL security program.
* Advice and Counsel: Liaises with key internal and external stakeholders with respect to efficient and secure Laboratory operations. Maintains and develops vital contacts with Government counterparts.
* Resource Management: Generates and implements plans to ensure strategic security resources are available to meet Laboratory demands. Ensures Laboratory resources are used appropriately to address collateral requirements across the entire population, and specific to special security needs as conditions dictate.

You will find significant opportunities to do meaningful work in an environment intentionally designed to be one where you will learn, thrive and belong.
* Leadership: Room to advance on your team or to lead cross-functional projects.
* Growth Opportunities: Potential for lateral and vertical movement.
* Education/Training: Management training, mentorship, in-house and external courses.
* Exposure: Engagement with sponsors, stakeholders, Laboratory leadership and other Departments and Divisions.
* Community: Participation is encouraged for Laboratory social events, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), clubs and study groups, volunteering and community service projects.

To work with MITLL, all employees must meet certain basic requirements.
* Leadership experience: 2-5 years of supervisory experience, leading cross-functional teams, developing advanced strategic planning, guiding careers of personnel, mentoring and training staff.
* Risk management experience: 1-2 years of experience managing complex projects and managing risk.
* Higher education: College degree, or equivalent work experience; MBA or JD preferred.
* Regulatory compliance experience: The ability to read, understand and apply government regulation, policies and procedure (NISPOM 32 CFR Part 117, applicable SEADs and EAs, DoD SAP/SCI Community and Intelligence Community directives and manuals, etc.).
* The ability to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret clearance with SCI eligibility.
* Must be a U.S. Citizen.
* Successfully pass a background check and consent to undergoing a government polygraph examination.

The Laboratory values experiences from diverse backgrounds and occupations. The most successful candidates will have the following skills and qualifications.
* Security compliance experience: 1-2 years of experience as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) with DD-254s, Special Caveat Briefings, SF-86 processing, and mandated reporting requirements. Additional SME status with the following tools is highly preferred: DISS, NBIS, NCCS, NISS, SWFT, SIMS.
* Valued competencies: Interpersonal, organizational, presentation, written and verbal communication skills.
* Computer skills: Familiarity with security management software, such as SIMS and government databases such as DISS (Defense Information Security System). Knowledge of business software: Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Office, etc.
* Flexibility: Ability to maintain a primarily in-office schedule with some ability for remote work. Comfortable responding to off-hours emergencies and local/overnight travel as needed (infrequent, but a possibility).

At MIT Lincoln Laboratory, our exceptional career opportunities include many outstanding benefits to help you stay healthy, feel supported, and enjoy a fulfilling work-life balance. Benefits offered to employees include:
    • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans
    • MIT-funded pension
    • Matching 401K
    • Paid leave (including vacation, sick, parental, military, etc.)
    • Tuition reimbursement and continuing education programs
    • Mentorship programs
    • A range of work-life balance options
    • ... and much more  

Please visit our Benefits page for more information. As an employee of MIT, you can also take advantage of other voluntary benefits, discounts, and perks.
Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level DoD security clearance.
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.