Security Operations Specialist

Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc. (SPA) delivers high-impact, technical solutions to complex national security issues. With over 50 years of business expertise and consistent growth, we are known for continuous innovation for our government customers, in both the US and abroad. Our exceptionally talented team is highly collaborative in spirit and practice, producing Results that Matter. Come work with the best! We offer opportunity, unique challenges, and clear-sighted commitment to the mission. SPA: Objective. Responsive. Trusted.

The Space and Intelligence Division provides professional services to the US Space Force, Combatant Commands, Intelligence Community, and NASA. Our work includes enterprise architectural assessments, systems engineering and integration, test, planning and execution, cost estimating and analysis, acquisition support, and cybersecurity. We are trusted partners developing approaches and concepts to meet emerging high priority needs, assessing cutting-edge technologies, and supporting capabilities for our National Defense. Come join the fastest growing Division at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc.!

The Space Systems Group (SSG), part of SPA's Space and Intelligence Division, provides timely and objective assessments and recommendations integrating technical, operational, programmatic, policy and business analysis. We focus on our key clients in the Space community including the US Space Force's Space Systems Command (USSF/SSC), one of the three designated Field Commands under USSF. We work tirelessly to provide integrated solutions based on information and communications throughout the chain of command. We provide clear and consistent analysis and recommendations which are aligned to strategic and leadership goals while balancing the ability to execute on time and on budget within the technical communities. Come join an organization responsible for being a key enabler of Spacepower!

SPA has an immediate need for a Security Operations Specialist.

SPA is seeking a mission-driven Security Operations Specialist with deep, hands-on expertise in the implementation and execution of full-spectrum security programs within classified environments. This is not a management or oversight role; this position is operational and delivery focused.

You will be relied upon to develop, document, operate, and enforce security protocols across Operations Security (OPSEC), Personnel Security (PERSEC), Information Security (INFOSEC), physical security, SCIF/SAPF operations, and classified contract security programs in direct support of Department of Defense (DoD) missions. You will serve as a key implementer for secure facility operations, classified information protection, and personnel screening and access management. You will deliver solutions and ensure compliance with applicable directives, including DoDM 5205.07 series, ICD 705, DoDM 5105.21 Volumes 1-3, NISPOM, SEADs, and applicable SAP directives.

Key Responsibilities:

OPSEC: Develop, implement, and maintain OPSEC plans, identify critical information and enforce protection measures, and support mission planning with OPSEC input.
• PERSEC: Coordinate clearance processing, access nominations, and eligibility verifications; manage foreign travel reporting, adverse information reporting, and indoctrinations/debriefings.
• INFOSEC: Enforce classification guidance, conduct security reviews of material, and ensure secure transmission, storage and destruction of classified information.
• Physical Security & Facility Accreditation: Implement and maintain physical safeguards at secure facilities (SCIFs and SAPFs), ensuring compliance with ICD 705 and DoD SAP standards. Manage alarms, IDS testing, access control systems, and emergency procedures.
• SCIF and SAPF Operations: Execute daily operations within accredited SCIFs and SAPFs. Support construction, accreditation, and maintenance activities. Conduct and document TEMPEST evaluations, SCIF management, and secure communications oversight.
• Security Program Delivery (SSO/CSSO/SSR functions):
  • Maintain and update fixed/floating access rosters.
  • Draft and submit visit requests (VARs) and manage clearance crossovers.
  • Conduct SCI and SAP indoctrinations and briefings.
  • Investigate and report security incidents, violations, and potential compromises.
  • Support periodic self-inspections and compliance audits.
• Program Security (SAP): Execute SAP security requirements across all phases of program activity. Develop and implement Program Security Plans (PSPs), manage access control and need-to-know validations, support DD Form 254 execution, and coordinate directly with Program Security Officers (PSOs) to ensure timely and compliant delivery of program security deliverables.
• Security Education and Awareness: Conduct recurring briefings (initial, annual, refresher, termination). Maintain training records and track completion in alignment with DoD and IC policy.
• Security Documentation & Reporting: Draft security standard operating procedures (SOPs), security classification guides (SCGs), fixed facility checklists (FFCs), inspection reports, and deviation requests.
• Liaison and Communication: Serve as the on-site security point of contact (POC) for government customers, accreditation authorities, and oversight agencies. Coordinate with Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), Program Security Officers (PSOs), and Cognizant Security Authorities (CSAs).

You will be expected to work on-site with the Government customer at an off-Base location in Colorado Springs, CO five days per week due to the fast pace, quick-turn nature of the job and the persistent need to access secure networks. Thus, residing in comfortable driving distance of Colorado Springs, CO should be considered.

About the Must Haves

• US Citizenship and current active DoD Top Secret (TS) clearance with SCI eligibility
• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field of study or an additional 4 years of relevant experience above the stated minimum
• Minimum 8 years of progressive, hands-on experience executing DoD/IC security tasks in secure environments
• Experience supporting SCIFs and/or SAPFs, including accreditation, operations, and audits
• Expert-level knowledge of relevant directives, including ICD 705, DoDM 5105.21, DoDM 5205.07, and NISPOM
• Demonstrated experience performing either SSO, CSSO, and/or SSR duties
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with attention to detail in logs, reports, and compliance documentation
• Experience with DISS, NISS, JADE, and other DoD/IC security systems and workflows
• TEMPEST/EMSEC knowledge and exposure
• Experience supporting Special Access Programs (SAPs) or compartmented DoD efforts
• Familiarity with DD 254 processes, Program Security Plans (PSPs), and coordination with PSOs and customer security offices
• Reports to designated work location in Colorado Springs, up to full time, based on the needs of the customer

At SPA, we strive to deliver a robust total compensation package that will attract and retain the top talent. Elements of the compensation package include competitive base pay and variable compensation opportunities.

SPA provides eligible employees with an opportunity to enroll in a variety of benefit programs, generally including health insurance, flexible spending accounts, health savings accounts, retirement savings plans, life and disability insurance programs, and a number of programs that provide for both paid and unpaid time away from work.

The specific programs and options available to any given employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as geographic location, date of hire, etc.

Please note that the salary information shown below is a general guideline only. Salaries are commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations. Salary pay range: 150k - 185k