Cybersecurity Architect

The Kansas Judicial Branch is hiring a Cybersecurity Architect to design, build, and oversee enterprise-wide cybersecurity capabilities across its networks and information security programs. In this onsite role in Topeka, KS, you will work under the supervision of the Chief Information Security Officer, helping translate security needs into practical architecture, policies, and coordinated response and recovery planning.

This position focuses on security architecture and governance for the organization, including threat analysis, incident response and disaster recovery oversight, vulnerability testing and auditing, and ensuring alignment with applicable laws, statutes, and regulatory requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and build the organization’s security architecture framework.
• Develop and implement policies and procedures that support data security.
• Research, evaluate, and recommend new security technologies and strategies.
• Analyze potential security threats, incidents, and vulnerabilities.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to identify the organization’s information security needs.
• Provide oversight and coordination for incident response and disaster recovery plans.
• Train new staff on network security issues, applicable policies, and best practices.
• Ensure compliance with changing laws and applicable regulations.
• Test and audit systems for vulnerabilities and overall security assurance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Technologies and Standards

• Cloud: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud
• Security controls: firewalls, VPN, IDS/IPS
• Frameworks/Regulations: GDPR, NIST CSF 2.0, PCI-DSS
• Operations: incident response, DFIR

Education and Experience Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, cyber security, or a related field.
• Additional relevant experience may be substituted for formal education on a year-for-year basis for the education requirement.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree in computer science, information systems, cyber security, or a related field.
• Professional certifications are highly encouraged.
• Experience with cloud security (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Knowledge of regulatory requirements and standards such as GDPR, NIST CSF 2.0, and PCI-DSS.
• Experience with incident response and DFIR.

Additional Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Proven experience as a cybersecurity architect or in a similar role.
• Strong understanding of firewalls, VPN, IDS/IPS, and other security technologies.
• Excellent knowledge of current security threats, techniques, and the security landscape.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• A customer service attitude with a focus on service delivery.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize, and quickly adjust in a rapidly changing environment.
• Mature analytic problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with peers, project teams, and management.
• Ability to leverage best practices and lessons learned from external organizations and academic institutions addressing cyber issues.
• Knowledge of applicable laws, statutes, and/or administrative/criminal legal guidelines and procedures.
• Knowledge of emerging technologies that may be exploited.
• Ability to travel in and out of state with some overnight trips.

Salary and Benefits

• Salary: USD 117,250 - 129,231 per yearly
• Benefits: State Employment Center - Benefits (ks.gov)

Application deadline: Open until filled.