Senior Systems Security Engineer (SSE)

We are seeking a highly experienced and technically authoritative Senior Systems Security Engineer (SSE) to lead the integration of Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) and program protection principles into a complex missiles portfolio.

The Senior SSE acts as the primary technical authority responsible for ensuring that critical defense systems are architected designed and sustained to be resilient against advanced persistent threats (APTs) and malicious insertions within hardware software and firmware supply this role you will establish secure design principles anti-tamper solutions and cryptographic protections.

Operating as a strategic technical advisor and mentor to engineering staff you will bridge the gap between high-level program protection plans and concrete engineering execution to safeguard vulnerable nodes across all procurement design and development paths.

This position is contingent on contract award.

• Lead the development and implementation of the Program Protection Plan (PPP) and ensure its tenets are seamlessly integrated into the Systems Engineering Plan (SEP) and overall system architecture.
• Architect design and oversee the integration of robust security controls anti-tamper measures secure boot and cryptographic components throughout the entire system development lifecycle (SDLC).
• Serve as the lead technical advisor on all matters related to hardware software and firmware assurance including conducting and reviewing component-level supply chain risk assessments.
• Direct the identification assessment and mitigation of vulnerabilities in Critical Program Information (CPI) and mission-critical functions.
• Support the decomposition of complex weapon systems architectures to identify CPI and vulnerable nodes.
• Conduct complex weapons systems supply chain maps and identify and monitor SCRM risks and vulnerabilities.
• Oversee the analysis of supply chain threat intelligence to assess and articulate the potential mission impact of identified risks to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Interface closely with cybersecurity teams to ensure full alignment of program protection measures with the Risk Management Framework (RMF) and DoW cybersecurity policies.
• Direct program protection working groups consisting of Systems Engineers Cybersecurity Analysts Traditional Security Officers Anti-Tamper Evaluation Teams and SCRM representatives.
• Provide expert technical guidance and mentorship to program managers systems security engineers design engineers software developers and logistics personnel on emerging threats and countermeasures.
• Prepare decision-ready technical reports executive briefs and mitigation plans translating complex supply chain risks into clearly defined operational and mission impacts.

• Bachelors degree in Systems Engineering Electrical Engineering Computer Science or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience in systems security engineering with a direct focus on DoW weapon systems or critical defense infrastructure protection. Strong background in systems engineering principles risk management and the defense acquisition lifecycle.
• Active Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for SCI highly preferred. Must be able to maintain the security clearance required for this position.
• U.S. Citizenship required.

• Deep technical expertise in anti-tamper (AT) technologies hardware/software/firmware assurance cryptography and secure system design.

• Familiarity with program protection concepts and the role of Systems Security Engineering within DoW acquisition.

• Comprehensive knowledge of DoW Instruction 5200.44 (Protection of Mission Critical Functions).

• Thorough understanding of the interplay between SCRM SSE and the DoW acquisition lifecycle.

• Exceptional executive communication briefing and negotiation skills.

• Demonstrated ability to translate complex engineering risks into clear actionable and decision-ready briefings for non-technical leadership.

• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced dynamic environment with shifting priorities.

Preferred (Desirable):

• Advanced Education: Masters Degree in Systems Engineering Electrical Engineering or a relevant engineering discipline.
• Certifications: CISSP with Information Systems Security Engineering Professional (ISSEP) concentration is highly desired.
• Relevant DAWIA certifications in Engineering or Systems Engineering are a plus.
• Specialized Experience:Direct experience designing implementing or assessing protection measures for Middle Tier of Acquisition (MTA) and ACAT I/II level DoW programs.

i3 is a technically diverse 100% team member owned business headquartered in Huntsville Alabama specializing in missile and aviation systems engineering and logistic services electronic warfare and electromagnetic effects analysis UAS system integration and flight operations full lifecycle C5ISR engineering services cybersecurity and IT/IA innovative solutions and virtual training simulation & serious game development and implementation. We have established a broad offering of products and capabilities collectively providing decades of experience supporting the full complement of DoD military services Missile Defense Agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration and a variety of other Government organizations and private industry customers.

Perks of being a team member owner include:

• Long-term financial security
• Higher job satisfaction
• Greater job security
• Personal and professional growth
• Great company culture

Other outstanding benefits:

• Excellent insurance coverage
• 401(k) match
• Generous PTO
• Health and wellness incentives
• Tuition and certification reimbursement
• Countless opportunities to give back to the community through i3 Cares

We work hard. We compete hard. We play hard. Apply now to join us!