Section Supervisor - Designated Security Representatives (ZSO)

Description

Are you an expert in the NISPOM (32 CFR Part 117) and sector-level security operations?

Do you have experience leading security professionals in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment?

Do you bring both strategic oversight and hands-on knowledge of government security regulations?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking a Section Supervisor - Industrial Security Specialist - for the Security Services Department (SECD/ZSO) to lead and manage the team of security professionals, Designated Security Representatives (DSRs), supporting Sectors and Departments across the Lab. This individual will oversee the consistent implementation of collateral security requirements, DSR processes and standards, and the coordination of security operations between SECD and mission organizations.

This role requires strong leadership and people management skills, as well as a deep understanding of DoW industrial security compliance standards and sector-level security execution. The Section Supervisor will ensure the DSR and Industrial Security team delivers efficient, high‑quality support that aligns with SECD's mission, supports sponsor requirements, and advances the Lab's broader strategic priorities.

As the Section Supervisor for Industrial Security/Designated Security Representatives, you will...

• Provide day‑to‑day leadership, supervision, and mentorship to the Industrial Security/Designated Security Representatives across Sectors/Departments.
• Oversee performance management for the section-set objectives, provide coaching and feedback, conduct performance evaluations, and support staff growth and development.
• Establish, standardize, and continuously improve department/sector security practices, procedures, and tools to ensure consistent security support across the Lab.
• Serve as a subject matter expert on industrial and collateral security topics, including NISPOM/32 CFR Part 117 requirements, Counterintelligence and Insider Threat indicators, sector/department security execution, and DSR/Facility Administrator (FA) responsibilities.
• Maintain seamless communication and coordination with the Facility Security Officer, Industrial Security Team and other SECD elements to ensure unified implementation of security requirements.
• Coordinate with Sectors/Departments to ensure strong adherence to security requirements and guidelines, and to identify and address emerging security needs.
• In conjunction with the FSO/Industrial Security Team and other SECD sections, contribute to the development and maintenance of Lab‑wide security policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and DSR/FA guidance to ensure alignment with DoW and DCSA requirements.
• Oversee and support DSR involvement in self‑inspections, administrative inquiries, incident response, and corrective action implementation in coordination with SECD, ITSD, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure DSRs effectively support physical, information, and industrial security operations within their Sectors/Departments, including training, awareness, and local process implementation.
• Communicate and collaborate with internal partners such as the Industrial Security team, ISSM teams, Insider Threat/Counterintelligence team, security administration group, physical security group, and program security groups to coordinate and integrate security support.
• Maintain timely communication with SECD and Sector/Department leadership regarding heightened security concerns, trends, and risk areas.
• Lead section hiring efforts-draft requisitions, screen applicants, participate in interviews, and make hiring recommendations.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a Bachelor's degree with at least four years of relevant experience, or a high school diploma with at least seven years of relevant experience in the security career field, with emphasis in industrial, collateral, or sector/department security operations.
• Have at least four years of relevant experience supporting government or DoW programs in a security-related role, such as an Industrial Security Specialist, Designated Security Representative, or similar position.
• Have prior formal or informal leadership or supervisory experience with proven ability to manage, coach, and support a team.
• Have a strong working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), 32 CFR Part 117, and FSO/DSR responsibilities under that framework.
• Have experience in the coordination and implementation of security training and awareness programs.
• Possess strong interpersonal and written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated ability to effectively interact and work with all levels of Laboratory staff, sponsors, customers, and representatives of external organizations; Ability to build trusted relationships across sectors and mission areas.
• Have strong analytical, investigative, and briefing skills with the ability to communicate risks to both technical and non-technical audiences
• Demonstrate strong prioritization, organization, planning, teamwork, problem‑solving, and negotiation skills, with the ability to work in a team environment or independently.
• Are proficient with basic word processing and other computer programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have previous experience serving as a Designated Security Representative (DSR), Lead DSR, Group/Program Security Representative, or in a comparable sector/department security lead role.
• Have experience participating in DCSA assessments and/or supporting NISPOM self‑inspection programs.
• Have previous FSO/AFSO or SECD supervisory experience.
• Possess in‑depth understanding of DoW security processes and requirements and knowledge of and experience with NISPOM/32 CFR Part 117 requirements for industry.
• Are proficient with SIMS, NISS, DISS, OPSLink, ServiceNow, and other security and Lab‑specific tools.
• Hold relevant security certifications such as Industrial Security Professional (ISP), Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC), or similar.
• Hold an active Top Secret security clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at http://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accommodations@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$62,900 Annually

Maximum Rate

$180,300 Annually