Systems Engineer 3 - (Cybersecurity, Systems Engineering, Zero Trust)

Akina, Inc. is seeking a Systems Engineer 3 with a cybersecurity focus to support assessments for large-scale DoD systems. In this role, you will apply an OCO/DCO mindset alongside systems engineering practices across vulnerability assessment, verification and validation, and acquisition documentation. The position is onsite in Linthicum, MD and requires Zero Trust experience.

You will help evaluate security requirements and capabilities independently, using available technical artifacts such as architecture diagrams, build specifications, and design documentation. The work also includes technical review of contractor proposals to ensure systems resiliency and cybersecurity considerations are addressed effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct cybersecurity assessments of large-scale DoD systems, using an OCO (Offensive Cyber Operations) mindset to perform DCO (Defensive Cyber Operations) activities.
• Perform long-term, in-depth vulnerability assessments using systems engineering principles and all available information, including architecture diagrams, build specifications, design documentation, and systems architecture.
• Complete independent verification and validation of security requirements and capabilities.
• Integrate systems resiliency and security engineering concepts into acquisition documents, such as Performance Work Statements.
• Provide technical evaluations of contractor proposals related to systems resiliency, security, and cybersecurity considerations.
• Use interpersonal skills to build relationships with customers and obtain additional insights, information, and documentation that support mission accomplishment.

Required Qualifications

• Zero Trust experience

Position Details

• Location: Linthicum, Maryland (onsite)
• Salary: USD 187,000 - 229,000 per year
• Minimum Experience: 8 years
• Education: Relevant Bachelor’s degree in a STEM field
• Clearance: TS/SCI with Polygraph required
• Position ID: 10-5015-SE3

Desired Skills

• Cybersecurity certifications (Sec+, CISSP, CEH, etc.)
• Familiarity with NIST SP 800-160
• Familiarity with INCOSE defined life cycle systems engineering processes
• Experience with and/or knowledge of large-scale DoD systems

SE-3 Qualifications

• High School Diploma: + 12 years System Engineering Experience
• Relevant Bachelor’s degree (STEM field): STEM field + 8 years System Engineering
• Relevant Master’s degree (STEM field): STEM field + 6 years System Engineering

Benefits

• 24 days PTO accrued annually
• 11 federal holidays
• 401k is 100% vested on your start date
• Direct company contribution worth 10% of your salary
• Akina covers 100% of healthcare costs for employees
• 50% toward dependents
• Educational assistance towards college classes
• Coverage for costs associated with job related training and certifications

Salary note: Salary is set based on experience, geographic location, and possible contractual requirements and could fall outside of the stated range.