Cyber Security Project Engineer

REQUIRED: Active TS/SCI with Full Scope Polygraph
LOCATION: Full-time, onsite in the Washington Metro Area
CONTINGENT POSITION

We are seeking a highly motivated Cyber Security Project Engineer to join our team and play a critical role in safeguarding systems, data, and infrastructure. In this position, you'll lead projects that integrate cutting-edge security solutions, ensure compliance with industry standards, and collaborate across teams to anticipate and neutralize threats before they arise. If you're passionate about defending digital environments while driving innovation, this is your opportunity to make a real impact.

With a competitive salary and industry-leading benefits, Ardent Principles offers more than just a job - we offer a career path filled with growth and opportunities. Join us and let's shape the future together!

Who We Are:
We offer advanced services in data science, data engineering, software engineering, AI solutions, cybersecurity, staff augmentation, and IT program management.

Passionate Integrity, Driven by Excellence
"Ardent Principles" signifies our unwavering commitment to excellence, driven by a profound passion and a strict adherence to ethical values. We believe that happy employees make for happy clients. Our mission is to act as a bridge between satisfied clients and fulfilled employees, ensuring that your job and well-being are our top priorities because your satisfaction leads to the success of our clients.

Key Responsibilities

In this challenging yet rewarding role, you are an integral part of what brings our company's mission to life. You must have demonstrated experience with the following responsibilities.

• Conduct technical risk assessments across IT systems, cloud platforms, and mobile networks
• Analyze vulnerabilities using tools like Nmap, Wireshark, Metasploit, and recommend mitigations
• Evaluate system configurations, procurement processes, and software origins for security posture
• Document risks and threat vectors in structured reports for decision-makers
• Perform hands-on penetration testing using approved plans and adversarial tactics
• Exploit system vulnerabilities and simulate real-world attack scenarios to assess resilience
• Analyze test results and develop countermeasures to reduce enterprise risk
• Lead technical exchange meetings and brief senior leadership on findings
• Design and implement secure system architectures for cloud and on-prem environments
• Provide guidance on encryption, PKI, VPNs, and secure data transfer protocols
• Support secure deployment of mission-critical applications and infrastructure
• Collaborate with engineering teams to integrate security into system lifecycles
• Develop and maintain SSPs, POA&Ms, and continuous monitoring plans
• Navigate ICD 503, NIST 800-53, and Sponsor-specific accreditation processes
• Use tools like Xacta, ServiceNow, and RSA Archer to manage A&A artifacts
• Coordinate with ISSMs and system owners to ensure compliance and readiness
• Secure AWS, Azure, and hybrid environments using best practices and compliance frameworks
• Implement Zero Trust Architecture and secure data lifecycle management
• Harden systems against threats using encryption, access controls, and secure configurations
• Assess cloud services for gaps and advise on remediation strategies
• Monitor logs and alerts using Splunk, Rapid7, Nessus, and other security tools
• Respond to incidents and perform forensic analysis to determine root cause
• Conduct vulnerability scans and track remediation efforts
• Maintain system uptime and recovery objectives in high-availability environments
• Create CONOPS, risk assessments, and accreditation documentation
• Translate complex technical findings into executive-level briefings
• Lead stakeholder engagements and technical exchange meetings
• Maintain version-controlled documentation and integrated master schedules

What We Offer You

• Highly Competitive Salary: Recognizing and rewarding your expertise and contributions.
• Generous Paid Time Off: Providing ample time for rest, relaxation, and personal pursuits.
• Dedicated Training Budget: Supporting continuous learning and professional development.
• 100% Employer-Covered Family Vision, Dental, and Health Insurance: Ensuring comprehensive health coverage for you and your family.
• 100% Employer-Covered Life and Disability Insurance: Offering financial security and peace of mind.
• 401(k) Plan with a 6% Employer Match: Helping you plan and save for a secure retirement, with 100% vesting from day one.
• 11 Paid Government Holidays: Observing national holidays to ensure time off with family and friends.
• Spot Bonuses for Exceptional Performance: Rewarding outstanding contributions and achievements.

SCHEDULE:

This is a full-time position with consultants expected to be available and working onsite in the Washington Metro Area during core hours.

Ready to take the next step in your career? Join us and be part of a team dedicated to driving positive change through technology. Apply now with our easy 3-minute, mobile-friendly initial application process. Your future starts here!

About Ardent Principles, Inc

At Ardent Principles, we're more than just a technology company - we're a team of innovators, problem-solvers, and collaborators dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Our mission is to empower organizations with transformative IT solutions and program management services, while our values of integrity, excellence, and teamwork guide everything we do. We foster a culture of open communication, where every voice is heard, and every idea is valued. Join us and be part of a company where your contributions truly make a difference.