Cybersecurity Architect - required onsite (hybrid) in Fairfax, VA

Cybersecurity Architect - required onsite (hybrid) in Fairfax, VA (must be local to DC metro area)

Overview

ILS Inc. is seeking an experienced Cybersecurity Architect to support a federal program’s security and compliance requirements. The Cybersecurity Architect will play a critical role in developing the strategy of developing and maintaining the security posture of enterprise IT systems in accordance with federal regulations, including FISMA, NIST 800-53, and FedRAMP. This position requires on-site presence two days per week at our Fairfax, VA headquarters.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously maintain a robust cybersecurity architecture strategy to support enterprise security objectives.
• Leverage emerging and existing technologies to strengthen cybersecurity defenses, including cloud security, identity and access management, encryption, and threat detection solutions.
• Evaluate, recommend, and implement tools that enhance the organization’s security posture
• Serve as the primary security point of contact for assigned federal information systems throughout the Development Security and Operations (DevSecOps) Life Cycle.
• Ensure compliance with NIST 800-53, FedRAMP, and agency-specific cybersecurity frameworks.
• Coordinate with system owners, engineers, developers, and external stakeholders to implement security controls and remediation strategies.
• Conduct and support security assessments, continuous monitoring, and vulnerability management activities.
• Participate in risk assessments, threat modeling, and incident response planning.
• Track and report on the status of security findings, plans of action, and ongoing audit activities.
• Support the development and delivery of security training and awareness activities for program staff.

• Bachelor’s degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in information security or cybersecurity roles, including direct Cybersecurity Architecture experience supporting federal systems.
• Strong knowledge of NIST SP 800-53, FISMA, and FedRAMP frameworks.
• Hands-on experience preparing and maintaining ATO packages and supporting RMF processes.
• Familiarity with vulnerability scanning tools (e.g., Nessus, Qualys), SIEMs, and security dashboards.
• Excellent documentation, communication, and coordination skills.

Preferred Skills

• Professional certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CAP, or Security+.
• Experience using eMASS, CSAM, or other compliance management platforms.
• Understanding of cloud security controls in AWS, Azure, or GCP environments.
• Background in supporting applications or systems within government, finance, or healthcare sectors.
• Knowledge of incident response, audit readiness, or insider threat programs.