The Mission Concepts and Capabilities Division (MCC) of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking several full-time Mission Planning Support (MPS) F-15 Intermediate Information System Security Manager (ISSM) to add to our team. The right candidates will manage cybersecurity and security compliance for F-15 Training Systems at Hill AFB, Nellis AFB, and Langley AFB. These roles require expertise in RMF processes, ISSM responsibilities, and coordination with multiple stakeholders to maintain system authorizations and ensure secure operations of mission planning systems.

We are looking to add the following number of right candidates to the following locations:

(1) Mount Home
(1) Eglin AFB
(1) Seymour Johnson AFB
(1) Nellis AFB

This position is contingent upon award of a contract expected in March 2026.

Essential Functions:

Manage security aspects of F-15 Training Systems and support obtaining/maintaining IATTs, ATOs, ISAs, ATCs Coordinate with TSPO, AFLCMC SPO Simulators Division, local Government personnel, and prime contractor to ensure cybersecurity Ensure systems operated and maintained IAW JSIG, NISPOM, and F-15 security policy; support secure disposal of equipment Validate user clearances and need-to-know before account creation; perform transfers and terminations Monitor and report security incidents within 24 hours; assist in investigations and corrective actions Monitor vault systems for secure connections and recovery processes Collect and review audit logs quarterly; report deficiencies Conduct quarterly reviews of user/equipment lists; rectify discrepancies Perform quarterly compliance and vulnerability scans; report findings within five business days Perform annual risk assessment and submit to TSPO Conduct annual inventory of F-15 Training Systems and submit results Conduct quarterly self-assessments; notify TSPO of expiring authorizations and assist with renewals 3Coordinate creation and maintenance of RMF authorization packages (SSP, POA&Ms, SCTM, CONMON, IASOP, hardware/software lists) Support assessments by providing documentation and addressing deficiencies Review and update AIS authorization packages; perform self-inspections and vulnerability mitigation Review, track, and conduct AIS training Maintain AIS security records and prepare Co-Utilization Agreements Prepare reports on security safeguards applied to computer systems Support technical review and inspection teams Assist with A&A efforts for Government and Contractor organizations

Required Skills:

Bachelors degree with 5-7years of experience with USAF fighter squadron, group, or wing weapons and tactics shop security-related operations (A-10 or F-15 experience desired) OR 10+ years of experience with DoD flying squadron, group, or wing weapons and tactics in lieu of a degree Experience with DoD and USAF security guidelines regarding computer and network security up to a TS SAP level Experience with current system software supported at the organization including OS and application packages Experience using and maintaining computer systems/networks, equipment, and software; and training users on new systems Active / current TS clearance with SCI and SAP/SAR eligibility and willingness to submit to a Counterintelligence polygraph Must be a US Citizen DoD 8140 role-based qualifications for Work Role 722: ISSM

Preferred Skills:

Active Top Secret SCI with polygraph clearance Have recent experience supporting CAF FS/AFWX/ASOS or wing weapons and tactics who security related operations

 

COMPANY INFORMATION:

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 2000 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership generates greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Mission Planning Support (MPS) F-15 Intermediate Information System Security Manager (ISSM) position.

 

Compensation & Benefits:

Pay Ranges: From $134,000- $144,000 000 per year based on location, years of experience, degree and any special skills and knowledge that they may bring to the position.

ARA offers competitive benefits that address our employees’ needs now and in the future. Learn more about each of our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/.