Cyber Operations Lead

$122,200 - $220,900/Yr

Leidos - Miami, FL

Full-time

Miami, FL

Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services

About the position

The Cyber Operations Lead at Leidos is responsible for managing and leading cybersecurity operations for IT and Cyber Services programs supporting the United States Southern Command (USSOUTHCOM). This role involves overseeing defensive cyber operations, ensuring robust cybersecurity measures, and maintaining operational readiness across USSOUTHCOM's Area of Responsibility (AOR). The position requires proficiency in Spanish and focuses on developing security strategies, directing cyber operations, and coordinating with various stakeholders to enhance the overall cybersecurity posture.

Responsibilities

• Lead the execution of cyber operations and ensure the protection of critical IT systems and data within USSOUTHCOM's AOR.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive cybersecurity strategy that includes proactive defense, incident response, and threat mitigation measures in alignment with DoD standards and USSOUTHCOM mission objectives.
• Manage the operation and maintenance of security systems, including intrusion detection, firewalls, endpoint protection, and other defensive measures.
• Lead the analysis and response to cyber threats, incidents, and vulnerabilities, ensuring all events are managed and resolved effectively.
• Coordinate with various stakeholders, including engineering, program management, interagency, and international partners, to ensure a cohesive and unified approach to cyber defense.
• Develop and implement mission defense plans (MDPs) for critical mission-relevant terrain in cyberspace, ensuring key assets are adequately defended.
• Oversee the creation and maintenance of security documentation, including security assessments, risk analyses, and incident reports.
• Ensure compliance with DoD standards, including NIST frameworks, eMASS, and other cybersecurity regulations, to meet the requirements of USSOUTHCOM.
• Lead and manage a team of cybersecurity professionals, providing guidance, mentorship, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
• Drive continual service improvement (CSI) initiatives to enhance security effectiveness, identify capability gaps, and integrate innovative technologies into the cyber defense environment.
• Provide senior-level briefings and reports on the state of cyber operations, including risk assessments, incidents, and mitigation strategies, to senior leadership.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in cybersecurity operations, with a focus on defensive cyber operations and incident response.
• Must currently hold and be able to maintain a Top Secret security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) eligibility.
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) Information Systems Security Management Professional (ISSMP) or equivalent CSSP Manager level certification.
• CompTIA Security+ or equivalent IAT Level II/III certification.
• Proven ability to lead cybersecurity operations in a high-stakes, mission-critical environment, including OCONUS deployments.
• Strong knowledge of DoD security standards, NIST frameworks, and eMASS.
• Experience managing security systems and tools, including SIEM platforms, intrusion detection systems (IDS), and endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to brief senior leadership and coordinate across diverse mission partners.
• Demonstrated ability to lead a cybersecurity team, providing technical guidance and driving strategic cyber defense initiatives.
• Must be proficient in Spanish and be able to speak, read, and communicate fluently.

Nice-to-haves

• Master's degree in Cybersecurity, IT, or a related field.
• Experience supporting cybersecurity for combatant commands or other major defense organizations.
• ITIL Foundation Certification or similar service management qualification.
• Experience with SIPRNet, NSANet, or other secure networks in a DoD environment.
• Knowledge of USSOUTHCOM's mission, operational objectives, and command structure.