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Contractor Program Security Officer full_time

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

Job Summary

The individual selected will serve as a Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO II/III) to oversee security operations for various Special Access Programs (SAPs) spanning multiple contractor facilities. In this capacity, they will provide on-site support for security actions aligned with both corporate and governmental policies. The CPSO will act as a liaison between multiple customers, primarily interfacing with Aerospace Program Management and government agencies/customers regarding security matters and requirements. Their responsibilities include supporting the Aerospace SAP team in ensuring compliance with program requirements. Additionally, they will be tasked with developing security plans, applying guidelines, and establishing procedures across various security domains such as Personnel Security, Physical Security, Industrial Security, Information Security, Classification Management, Communication Security (COMSEC), and Program Security.

Work Model

100% Onsite – El Segundo, CA

What You’ll Be Doing

  • Coordinate with the Program Security Officer (PSO) and Contractor/Government Program Manager (CPM/GPM) for secure SAP operations.
  • Oversee detailed compliance activities, including reporting and follow-up on security incidents or violations. To include managing investigations (SIR) and report incidents to PSO.
  • Provide initial, refresher, and event-driven training for cleared personnel on SAP processes and conduct program indoctrinations.
  • Conduct pre-travel and post-travel briefings, and coordinate documentation with the customer.
  • Review and support facility upgrades, obtain necessary approvals, and maintain open/close rosters and access controls.
  • Conduct/review annual “Self-Inspection Checklist,” document deficiencies, and submit corrective action plans.
  • Coordinate visitor control process for SAP meetings, schedule and conduct security checks (DISS, JADE).
  • Manage personnel security records and update program-specific tabs in JADE.
  • Create, update, and maintain facility Concept of Operations (CONOPs) and Standard Operation Procedures (SOP)s, coordinate approval with government customers.
  • Oversee transmission of SAP material, provide courier instructions/training to SAP-briefed couriers, develop transportation plans, and reproduction procedures.
  • Implement and interpret Security Classification Guides (SCG).
  • Grant swipe access and support secure communications, including conference room setups and VTC baseline checks.
  • Maintain access rosters, visitor logs (Cleared and Uncleared), SF 702s, manage indoctrination briefings/debriefings, classified material accountability records, and handle COMSEC responsibilities (CRO) via hardcopy and SAP network digital database.
  • Perform battery and safe inventory checks, and review facility security documents.
  • Coordinate on electron Program Access Request (ePAR) routing chains, generate CONOPs and Continuous Security Plans for review/approval.
  • Oversee facility escort duties and shredder maintenance.
  • Receive and handle classified mail, coordinate polygraph sessions, and ensure compliance with COMSEC (CRO) and emergency action plans.
  • Conduct and document annual training and self-inspection checklists.
  • Review/update facility modifications, transportation plans, and SAP addendums.
  • Manage OTAD scheduling, COMSEC updates, and access list reviews.
  • Interpret and implement security classification guidance; Ensure adherence to applicable laws, SCI, or SAP security policies.
  • Coordinating with government PSOs and working in high-security environments.
  • Knowledge of JADE, DISS, SCGs, and other security-related systems and protocols.
  • Excellent organizational and communication skills with attention to detail.
  • Work with ISSM/ISSO to safeguard Information Systems in SAPF
  • Assist in the development of Program Protection Plans, review/update DD Form 254, manage SAP material inventory/disposition.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Security Specialist II – CPSO:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent
  • 3-5 relevant CPSO experience
  • Current TS/SCI with the ability to obtain and maintain SAP accesses. U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
  • Knowledgeable of the DoDM 5205.07 Volumes 1-4 SAP manuals and ICD series manuals
  • Ability to favorably complete a U.S. Government CI scope polygraph
  • Ability to travel in support of mission requirements
  • Willingness to work overtime or weekends as needed

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In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Security Specialist III – CPSO include:

  • Highschool diploma or equivalent
  • 5-8 years security-related experience performing responsibilities specifically within an SAP environment
  • Current TS/SCI with the ability to obtain and maintain SAP accesses. U.S. Citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
  • Strong knowledge of the NISPOM, DoD SAP Security Manuals, Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs), and related security policies and procedures
  • Strong knowledge of JADE, CORE, and other customer-specific systems
  • Ability to favorably complete a U.S. Government CI scope polygraph
  • Ability to travel in support of mission requirements
  • Willingness to work overtime or weekends as needed

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these:

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree
  • CDSE Certifications

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. 

(Min – Max)

$36.72 – $67.20

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

  • Operate Strategically
  • Lead Change   
  • Engage with Impact   
  • Foster Innovation   
  • Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

  • Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

  • Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

  • Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

  • 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

  • Flexible spending accounts

  • Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

  • Relocation assistance

  • Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

  • Education assistance programs

  • An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement. 

Job Overview