SR Computer Scientist - Information System Security Engineer (ISSE)

Description The Senior Computer Scientist (ISSE) is the primary cybersecurity authority for tools and CI/HUMINT data-management systems, ensuring security is designed, implemented, assessed, and sustained throughout the system lifecycle. Position level and location: Senior, one base full-time equivalent; on-site in Reston, Virginia.

The position supports a 40-hour workweek, with schedules subject to mission requirements.

Role summary

The ISSE protects software, prototypes, data flows, and operational tools by embedding security controls into system design and development. The role partners with Software Engineers, Data Scientists, Data Management Tool Administrators, the Technology Project Manager, DIA CIO, and the Foreign Disclosure Officer to balance operational needs with DIA, DoD, NIST, and Intelligence Community security requirements.

Key responsibilities

• Ensure UMM tools and data-management systems comply with DIA security requirements and applicable federal security standards.
• Integrate security controls into software design, development, deployment, and sustainment activities.
• Conduct security assessments, risk analyses, vulnerability assessments, and continuous compliance monitoring.
• Support Authority to Operate (ATO) activities, including required security documentation and certification/accreditation coordination.
• Implement security controls in accordance with NIST and DoD standards and applicable DIA frameworks.
• Define and coordinate security requirements for cross-domain data transfers with Service and Combatant Command tool administrators.
• Support secure data-sharing and system-access requirements.
• Coordinate with DIA CIO on security certification, accreditation, and security-update activities.
• Advise the Technology Project Manager on security requirements and support Software Engineers in applying secure coding practices.
• Ensure foreign-disclosure requirements and controls are incorporated into system designs and data-sharing processes.
• Maintain security controls and standards during system sustainment and support revisions to data-transfer security requirements.

Requirements

• Extensive experience with Risk Management Framework (RMF) and ATO processes.
• Demonstrated expertise implementing security controls, conducting risk assessments, and performing vulnerability assessments.
• Knowledge of NIST, DoD, DIA, and Intelligence Community cybersecurity frameworks and policies.
• Experience securing intelligence systems, software applications, and data-management environments.
• Knowledge of cross-domain security architectures, system access controls, and secure data-sharing practices.
• Ability to work across technical and operational teams, translate security requirements into implementable controls, and balance security with mission needs.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and current awareness of evolving cyber threats and security technologies.

Preferred qualifications

• Relevant cybersecurity certification, such as CISSP, CAP, or CISM .
• Experience supporting CI/HUMINT systems, secure software development, and cross-domain data-transfer solutions.
• Experience working with DIA security certification and accreditation processes. Additional Details Travel: May include CONUS/OCONUS travel in support of training and partner engagements Work Environment: On-site in a secure facility; instruction and coordination conducted in classified environments Security Note All applicants must be U.S. citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance. Who We Are Dark. Star Intelligence delivers mission-critical support to national security operations across intelligence, cybersecurity, technology, and operational support domains. We partner with government customers to strengthen decision advantage, enhance operational readiness, and advance mission success in complex and evolving threat environments. Why Work at Dark. Star? At Dark. Star Intelligence, you’ll contribute directly to high-impact national security missions while growing your professional capabilities in a collaborative, performance-driven environment. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for continuous development within a mission-focused team culture. ADA Accommodations Statement Dark. Star Intelligence is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable laws. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Dark. Star Intelligence is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local law. E-Verify Participation Dark. Star Intelligence participates in the federal E-Verify program to confirm employment eligibility of all newly hired employees in accordance with applicable law.

Benefits

Overview Dark. Star Intelligence offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include: Medical, dental, and vision coverage Paid time off (PTO) and holidays 401(k) retirement plan options Professional development and training opportunities