Security Specialist (COMSEC)

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 COMSEC Security Specialist will be charged with accountability of COMSEC material, related security education, and performing audits and inventories.

Work Model

This position will be located 100% onsite in El Segundo, CA.

What You’ll Be Doing

• The position will provide day-to-day support for Collateral, Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Program (SAP) activities across the enterprise
• Conduct secure equipment (e.g., secure telephones and encryption devices) and classified keying material inventories, inspections and other COMSEC related support and oversight functions
• Administer a Top Secret inventory and document control program to account for COMSEC equipment and materials.
• Conduct COMSEC briefings for personnel about their COMSEC responsibilities prior to granting access
• Courier classified information and author receipts for classified materials
• Maintaining internal security databases and other records (e.g. COMSEC, security incidents, etc.)
• Knowledge of security classification, associated markings and physical security requirements for secure vaults and rooms

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for the Security Specialist II - COMSEC:

• Current Top Secret Clearance with SCI Eligibility. U.S citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
• Eligibility for access to Special Access Program Information
• Willingness to submit to a Counterintelligence polygraph
• Experience with the following NSA Type-I Encryption Devices: KG-175’s, KG-185, KIV-7, KG-250’s, Omni, DTD, SDS, VIPERs and Secure Terminal Equipment (STE) with KSV-21
• Experience with NISP and/or SCI
• High School Diploma/ GED and a minimum 2-3 years experience with COMSEC
• Knowledge of NSA/CSS 3-16 and standard COMSEC tasks (i.e., updating DIAS, COMSEC briefings, inventories, reporting COMSEC incidents, loading key material)
• Proficiency with all Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, etc.)
• Excellent skills in customer service, verbal, and written communication
• Must complete COMSEC Manager's course within 6 months of starting  

In addition to the above, the minimum requirements for the Security Specialist III - COMSEC include:

• 5+ years experience with COMSEC

How You Can Stand Out

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

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent work or military experience
• 3+ years of experience working with COMSEC materials
• Experience in the handling and safeguarding of classified information
• Experience with the following NSA Type-I Encryption Devices: KG-175’s, KG-185, KIV-7, KG-250’s, Omni, DTD, SDS, VIPERs and Secure Terminal Equipment (STE) with KSV-21
• Experience with NISP and/or SCI
• Experience instructing users on proper use and protection of COMSEC material
• Experience using COMSEC Fill Devices (SKL, RASKL, SDS, etc.)
• Experience with COMSEC specific tracking databases, (CARDS, DIAS, etc.)
• Experience as a Cryptographic Network (CRYPTONET) Controlling Authority (CONAUTH)

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)

$27.28 - $49.92

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.