Security Operations Center Operator

Why choose between doing meaningful work and having a fulfilling life? At MITRE, you can have both. That's because MITRE people are committed to tackling our nation's toughest challenges-and we're committed to the long-term well-being of our employees. MITRE is different from most technology companies. We are a not-for-profit corporation chartered to work for the public interest, with no commercial conflicts to influence what we do. The R&D centers we operate for the government create lasting impact in fields as diverse as cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, defense, and enterprise transformation. We're making a difference every day-working for a safer, healthier, and more secure nation and world. Our workplace reflects our values. We offer competitive benefits, exceptional professional development opportunities for career growth, and a culture of innovation that embraces adaptability, collaboration, technical excellence, and people in partnership. If this sounds like the choice you want to make, then choose MITRE - and make a difference with us.

Department Summary: The MITRE Corporation is seeking a highly qualified candidate for a position as a Physical Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator on our campus in McLean, Virginia. This is a Full-Time position with a primary work schedule of Monday-Friday, 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM .

As a Security Operations Center (SOC) Operator, you serve as a frontline defender of personnel, facilities, and mission-critical operations. The SOC Operator is a key member of the physical security operations team, providing real-time monitoring, coordination, and response during incidents that threaten safety, security, or continuity of operations. These incidents may include natural disasters, workplace violence, facility emergencies, fires, medical events, and other security or life-safety situations.

Throughout each shift, SOC Operators manage multiple systems and communication channels, including emergency telephone lines, electronic access control, intrusion detection systems, video surveillance (CCTV), fire alarm systems, and other technologies that enable timely detection, assessment, and response to security events.

While the assigned shift provides day-to-day stability, the Security Operations Center operates as a 24/7/365 mission-critical function, and operators are expected to support other shifts as operational needs require, including occasional weekends and holidays. Schedule changes are planned in advance whenever possible and are driven by mission requirements, staffing coverage, and incident response needs.

SOC Operators are trusted professionals who play a key role in maintaining continuity of operations during high-impact events. Reliability, punctuality, and flexibility are essential, and in return, operators work within a structured, professionally managed scheduling environment that prioritizes clear communication, fairness, and operational readiness.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate a working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and prior experience operating in a DoD-cleared facility environment.

Job Description:

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Monitors, tests, and responds to intrusion and other alarm systems at multiple locations.
• Uses closed circuit TV (CCTV) video surveillance systems to confirm status of security systems and confirm authorization of individuals requesting access to any secure area.
• Assists shift supervisors in the deployment of security personnel and security personnel activities.
• Communicates effectively with staff, guests, and employees via radio, telephone, email and in-person.
• Monitors and operates computer systems effectively.
• Documents and investigates security events and incidents.
• Dispatches security staff as appropriate and issues equipment.
• Build, improve and maintain effective communication and relationships with co-workers, staff, subcontractors, vendors, and guests.
• Remain flexible to an ever-changing environment and adapt well to different situations.
• Report safety concerns, security breaches and unusual activity both verbally and in writing.
• Handle security incidents or emergency situations appropriately and contact local emergency responders; police, fire dept., EMT's.
• Fully participate in training and certification programs to enhance your ability and advance your career.
• Be thoroughly familiar with our security operations manuals, post orders, policies, procedures, and instructions.
• Have experience and effectively use Microsoft products such as Word, Excel, and Power Point.
• The SOC Operator is responsible for effective and efficient processing of all information relevant to the security operation which includes but is not limited to, effective distribution of phone calls, executing and receiving notifications, effective distribution and action of all information received electronically via email, intranet, service requests, shift activity logs and incident reports.
• Can multi-task and work effectively under pressure or stressful situations in a calm and professional manner.

Basic Qualifications:

• Typically requires a minimum of 2 - 4 years of related experience with a High School Diploma or equivalent in education, or 2 years' experience and an Associate degree, or equivalent combination of education and related work experience.
• This position requires a current DoD Secret clearance as a minimum with the ability to obtain a Top-Secret clearance.
• Per the U.S. Government's eligibility requirements, you must be a U.S Citizen to be considered for a security clearance.
• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a security operation and a proven track record in a security operations center environment; or 5 years of prior security, military, or law enforcement experience.
• ASIS International professional certification as a Physical Security Professional (PSP) is highly desirable.
• Possess strong computer skills and demonstrate the ability to effectively operate and manage security tools and processes. Systems include but are not limited to access control, intrusion alarm systems, CCTV, and communications equipment. Experience with C-Cure Access Control and Intrusion Detection System is preferred.
• Possess strong written and verbal communication skills across all delivery methods, including in person, radio, and telephone communications.
• Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment while also demonstrating the capacity to work independently.
• Neat, professional appearance with a friendly demeanor and a demonstrated ability to deliver high-quality customer service.
• This position has an on-site requirement of 5 days a week on-site.

Preferred Qualifications:

• ASIS International professional certification as a certified Physical Security Professional (PSP) is highly desirable.
• Possess strong computer skills and demonstrate the ability to effectively operate and manage security tools and processes. Systems include but are not limited to access control, intrusion alarm systems, CCTV, and communications equipment. Experience with C-Cure Access Control and Intrusion Detection System is preferred.

This requisition requires the candidate to have a minimum of the following clearance(s):
Secret

This requisition requires the hired candidate to have or obtain, within one year from the date of hire, the following clearance(s):
Top Secret

Salary compensation range and midpoint:
$67,600 - $84,500 - $101,400 Annual

Work Location Type:
Onsite

Commitment to Non-Discrimination

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, local or international law.

MITRE intends to maintain a website that is fully accessible to all individuals. If you are unable to search or apply for jobs and would like to request a reasonable accommodation for any part of MITRE's employment process, please email recruitinghelp@mitre.org for general support and collegerecruiting@mitre.org for intern positions. This service is for individuals requiring reasonable accommodation requests. Please note that vendor solicitations will not receive a reply.

Benefits information may be found here .

Copyright © 1997-2026, The MITRE Corporation. All rights reserved. MITRE is a registered trademark of The MITRE Corporation. Material on this site may be copied and distributed with permission only.