INFORMATION ASSURANCE SPECIALIST COVER LETTER TEMPLATE

Published: Sep 3, 2025 - The Information Assurance Specialist supports DoD RMF assessment and authorization processes by performing vulnerability scans, conducting risk assessments, and maintaining data on end-user issues in accordance with established policies. This role involves developing and implementing security plans, utilizing tools, and coordinating inspections to ensure compliance with security standards. The specialist also manages accreditation packages, verifies user access and classification controls, investigates security incidents, and supports secure hardware and software implementations across assigned locations.

An Introduction to Professional Skills and Functions for Information Assurance Specialist with a Cover Letter

1. Details for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Contribute to the implementation and continuous improvement of security GRC processes such as Policy Management, Information Risk Management, Compliance Management, etc
  • Support, configure, test, implement, and maintain the GRC processes in the applicable GRC product
  • Working closely with the business, IT, security and 3rd party development/implementation partners
  • Assess and advise on the impact of GRC process design options and changes
  • Track remediation activities and relevant metrics to help communicate status, demonstrate progress and build awareness of GRC processes
  • Ensure security compliance objectives through the design, implementation, and management of regulatory program requirements
  • Contribute to the strategy and execution of the overall security governance and risk management program
  • Cultivate relationships with security, IT, legal, risk, and business stakeholders to strengthen security governance and risk management
  • Support Thales UK in ensuring all technical security measures are enhanced and developed, to ensure successful and timely system accreditations and re-accreditations
  • Provide a central point of contact for all technical security matters and concerns, supporting IS project teams and businesses throughout project lifecycles
  • Provide assurance and ensure the successful and secure delivery of all Code of Connections (CoCs), associated cryptographic products, key material and documentation
  • Responsibility for developing and implementing formal and regular technical risk assessments of Thales’ IS environments, recommending remedial action 
  • Work collaboratively with technical project delivery teams to ensure proposed solutions provide the level of security assurance in line with data processing requirements and Thales and customer risk appetites
  • Ensure that technical requirements for Thales assurance activities are delivered in the functional area in line with risk appetite
  • Devise, develop and maintain Information Security design principles and Technology Standards and requirements 
  • Document and publish these Information Security Principles, Standards and requirements for use in the design and architecture of all Thales IT systems
  • Review new and proposed technologies to evolve the list of acceptable Technology Standards


Skills: GRC Process Management, Risk Assessment, Compliance Tracking, Security Governance, Policy Development, Technical Assurance, Stakeholder Collaboration, Security Standards

2. Roles for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Understand the certification and accreditation process for a DoD and/or Federal government system
  • Ensure that all the system or application deliverables meet the requirements of DoD and Air Force Information Assurance (IA) policy
  • Sustain Client for the production/test/development environments
  • Ensure all application deliverables comply with the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) Application Security and Development Security Technical Implementation Guide (STIG)
  • Support activities and meet the requirements of DoDI 8520.02, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) and Public Key (PK) Enabling
  • Achieve standardized, PKI-supported capabilities for biometrics, digital signatures, encryption, identification and authentication
  • Support the review and update of documentation (SSP, IRP, ISCP, etc.) about IA/security policies
  • Review PO&AMs for completeness to ensure all system deficiencies are properly identified
  • Validate POA&Ms are associated with a SAR-generated finding 
  • Close out POA&Ms based on the POA&M Closure process
  • Provide input to the overall security compliance strategy
  • Prepare and oversee the preparation of IA certification and accreditation documentation
  • Manage performance standards for IA activities
  • Identify IT security program implications of new technologies or technology upgrades
  • Register systems in the Enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS) with all necessary artifacts to attain Authority to Operate (ATO)


Skills: Certification Process, STIG Compliance, PKI Support, Documentation Review, POA&M Management, Security Compliance, ATO Preparation, eMASS Registration

3. Functions for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Coordinate and collaborate with the government and other Contractor support about and documentation of connectivity and problem resolution issues for HQ AFSOC and HQ USSOCOM
  • Coordinate all Information Assurance (IA) documentation and feedback with the HQ USSOCOM IA office while keeping SGIP Program Managers abreast on system IA posture
  • Patches, updates, and upgrades to systems provide a coordination plan to the Government for communication of schedule, potential impacts, and applicable mitigation measures
  • Assist in the formulation of adequate regulatory procedures in the safeguarding of classified defense and other protected information
  • Provide system, technical and permissions (i.e., security, policy, access) training
  • Perform Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM) duties for AFSOC SGIP systems
  • Compile supporting data, submit and manage AFSOC-related SGIP Risk Management Framework (RMF) projects
  • Perform continuous monitoring functions
  • Manage system security patching as directed by SOF Information Enterprise (SIE) owners with minimum impact to operations
  • Test and identify impacts to operations before updating systems


Skills: IA Documentation, Problem Resolution, Patch Coordination, Regulatory Procedures, Security Training, ISSM Duties, RMF Projects, System Monitoring

4. Job Description for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Implementing ATO requirements and maintaining the appropriate impact levels of the classified system
  • Developing and maintaining Risk Management Framework (RMF) documentation
  • Work with network monitoring tools for the purpose of identifying deficiencies with approved software
  • Administrative and general cybersecurity support to include preparing presentations
  • Work with program and Cyber Security leadership to develop RMF security artifacts, respond to controls, create/update POA&Ms, attend and participate in status meetings
  • Active participation in providing resolution to the Authorization to Operate (ATO), Risk Management Framework (RMF) Process
  • Review, update, or the creation of documents to support the closure of findings, execution of associated actions and coordination for submission to the government for review and approval
  • Attend enterprise Information Assurance (IA) related working groups and meetings to identify and execute emerging Information Assurance (IA) policies and/or creation and staffing of new IA policies
  • Review and generate correspondence and response as directed on Cyber Security policies and instructions, DISA Information Assurance Vulnerability Alert (IAVA), and other operation orders
  • Facilitates cybersecurity management oversight and technical evaluation
  • Provide effective analysis of cybersecurity policies and processes and ensure timely solutions are provided in accordance with the Risk Management Framework Process lifecycle


Skills: ATO Implementation, RMF Documentation, Network Monitoring, Cybersecurity Support, POA&M Creation, IA Coordination, Policy Review, Security Analysis

5. Accountabilities for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Supports the implementation of new security solutions, participation in the creation and or maintenance of policies, standards, baselines, guidelines and procedures as well as conducting vulnerability audits and assessments
  • Participates in the design of vulnerability assessments, penetration tests and security audits and provides recommendations for application design
  • Uses encryption technology, penetration and vulnerability analysis of various security technologies, and information technology security research
  • Participates in the design and development of new systems, applications, and solutions for external customer enterprise-wide cyber systems and networks
  • Participates in integrating new architectural features into existing infrastructures, designs cyber security architectural artifacts, provides architectural analysis and relates existing systems to future needs and trends
  • Embeds forensic tools and techniques for attack reconstruction, provides engineering recommendations, and resolves integration/testing issues
  • Participates in the creation and enforcement of enterprise security documents (policies, standards, baselines, guidelines and procedures)
  • Maintains documentation, procedures and working instructions in accordance with federal and departmental guidelines
  • Reviews logs and reports and interprets the implications
  • Participates in investigations into problematic activity and assists with plans for appropriate resolution
  • Assist with proposals, including gathering facts, analyzing data and preparing a project overview which compares alternatives in terms of cost, time, availability of equipment and personnel, etc.


Skills: Security Implementation, Policy Maintenance, Vulnerability Audits, Penetration Testing, Encryption Analysis, System Design, Log Review, Incident Investigation

6. Tasks for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Maintaining the database server and all database instances supporting the IMO system applications
  • Installing, configuring, and maintaining SQL Database servers and instances
  • Implementing DISA STIG requirements for all IMO databases and instances
  • Tuning/optimizing databases, maintaining database interfaces, monitoring database use and size, and archiving databases
  • Evaluate and recommend available DBMS products to meet user requirements
  • Determine file organization, indexing methods, and security procedures for a specific user application
  • Working with developers, system engineers, and program managers to create, process, and manage certification and accreditation packages using eMASS
  • Communicate complex concepts to both technical personnel and mid and senior level management
  • Apply DISA STIGs and patches to mitigate vulnerabilities
  • Aid in the development of new cybersecurity plans and the reaccreditation of existing plans
  • Perform cyber review and assessments for information technologies from across the labs
  • Determine security requirement gaps and provide recommendations or mitigations for addressing those gaps
  • Work closely with Information Security Site Manager (ISSM), Information System Security Officers (ISSOs) and system administrators
  • Provide interpretation of NIST/CNSSI requirements and guidelines, along with validation testing
  • Establish Operational Technology (OT) sanitization procedures or periods for processing protocols
  • Perform cyber or telecommunications security assessments
  • Capture, prioritize, and present information requested via federal cybersecurity data calls
  • Handle a high-pressure environment while partnering with customers in multiple Sandia mission areas


Skills: Database Management, SQL Configuration, STIG Implementation, Performance Tuning, eMASS Processing, Cyber Assessments, Security Gap Analysis, NIST Interpretation

7. Expectations for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Provide support regarding DoD RMF assessment and authorization (A&A) processes and matters
  • Maintains information and data regarding end-user issues within the tracking system and according to policies and standards
  • Perform vulnerability scans, conduct risk assessments, and implement vulnerability assessments
  • Reviews, develops, and implements security plans for existing and new computer assets
  • Experience in running Security Content Automation Protocol (SCAP) or Nessus, compliance and hardening tools on systems, to provide risk input to the ISSM
  • Coordinates and performs information security inspections, tests, and reviews
  • Supports the implementation and development of an organization's IT security program
  • Ensures security policies, standards and procedures are established and enforced
  • Trains and briefs employees on the IS systems
  • Ensures users have appropriate security clearance and access to information
  • Verify that applicable security measures identified by the IA Vulnerability Management (IAVM) program are applied
  • Understand classification management, classified document control, and classified media control
  • Submit and track accreditation packages, to include annual reviews of accredited networks/systems
  • Knowledge of techniques to perform clearing, purging, declassifying, and releasing of system memory, media, and output
  • Conduct evaluation and analysis of software/hardware intended for use on the secured IT assets
  • Conducts hardware and software implementations
  • Investigates and reports IS security incidents
  • Ensures proper protection or corrective measures have been taken
  • Supporting the Greenbelt, MD, location and assisting other regional areas


Skills: RMF Support, Risk Assessment, Vulnerability Scanning, Security Planning, SCAP Experience, Policy Enforcement, Clearance Verification, Incident Investigation

What are the Qualifications and Requirements for Information Assurance Specialist in a Cover Letter?

1. Knowledge and Abilities for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Working experience in performing DIACAP and RMF compliance as a Cybersecurity specialist/engineer
  • Demonstrated knowledge and the ability to analyze systems for Cybersecurity compliance
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
  • Knowledge of DoD policies and risk assessment methodologies
  • Experience in writing or executing system security documentation, authorization to operate packages, POA&Ms, and policies
  • Experience in reviewing/editing/writing technical documents
  • Presentation and public speaking skills
  • Must be comfortable presenting technical information to a group
  • Knowledge of the NIST Risk Management Framework
  • Knowledge and understanding of systems and networking technologies and concepts
  • Ability to interpret and assess network diagrams and drawings using Visio
  • Familiarity with Testing, Development, Staging, and pre-production environment CS support


Qualifications: BS in Information Systems with 6 years of Experience

2. Requirements and Experience for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Experience with Intrusion Prevention/Detection systems, network monitoring, syslog, encryptors, and other cybersecurity tool families
  • Familiar with DoD network security practices and Security Technical Implementation Guides (stigs)
  • Understanding of encryption technologies including Hardware Security Modules (HSMs)
  • Must be able to exchange accurate information in these situations
  • Previous experience of providing security input and advice to projects in the Government sector or commercial organisations
  • In-depth knowledge of HMG security policy, NIST, DEFSTAN 05-138 and good practice guidance and their application
  • Wide-ranging knowledge of application, infrastructure and security technologies and familiarity with implementing them in a secure configuration
  • Experience of working in a project environment and awareness of system development lifecycle methodologies
  • Experience within each expertise area of security policy, vulnerability management, and security assessment and authorization
  • In-depth knowledge and experience implementing NIST guidance relating to SA&A, including System Security Plans, Security Test and Evaluation Plans, Risk Assessments, Contingency Plans, and Business Impact Analysis
  • Ability to work and set priorities on multiple projects/tasks at once and operate in a dynamic, fast-paced team-oriented environment
  • Must have IAM Level III Certification (CISSP, CISM or GSLC)


Qualifications: BS in Computer Engineering with 8 years of Experience

3. Education and Experience for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Experience working with Salesforce.com or a similar CRM
  • High aptitude for working with dynamic information systems
  • Highly organized with strong follow-through ability
  • Effective communication ability, with collaboration skills
  • Strong problem-solving skills
  • Ability to organize and deliver information in an understandable manner
  • Information security or Information System Security Officer (ISSO) experience
  • Must be able to obtain Security Plus Certification (DOD 8570 certification)
  • Strong Microsoft Office experience, above-average Excel skills, and some Microsoft Project skills
  • Cross-functional coordination/communication to achieve project goals
  • Strong computer proficiency, accuracy, and attention to detail
  • Knowledge of manufacturing business processes


Qualifications: BA in Intelligence Studies with 5 years of Experience

4. Professional Background for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Ability to facilitate engagement with peers
  • Able to be eager to share knowledge and help team members develop their security awareness
  • Proven dedication and willingness towards continuous improvement and learning new skills and capabilities
  • Able to be open-minded, experienced, or ready to adapt to new ways of working (agile)
  • Experience in systems/security engineering
  • Experience with the Risk Management Framework (RMF) or FedRAMP ATO process, to include a working knowledge of the various steps/stages within the process
  • Knowledgeable of relevant NIST Special Publications guidance as it pertains to the RMF
  • Experience leading RMF Cybersecurity/IA Activities
  • Strong knowledge and experience with DISA Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIG)
  • Must have current CompTIA Security Certification or the ability to obtain CompTIA
  • Able to obtain or utilize technical certifications as part of continuous professional growth


Qualifications: BA in International Relations with 6 years of Experience

5. Education and Qualifications for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Demonstrated experience in creating, processing, and managing certification and accreditation packages
  • Demonstrated experience using automated management information systems to perform fact-finding, analytical, and advisory functions related to information assurance activities
  • Demonstrated experience developing solutions to problems relating to improving information assurance effectiveness, work methods, resource requirements, and utilization and controls
  • Suitable interpersonal and customer service skills to interface with corporate customers
  • Ability to effectively communicate with the Customer, Naval Information Warfare Center - Pacific Center's staff, and peer contractor personnel
  • Software and application security evaluation skills using automated software evaluation tools
  • Network and/or System Administration technical expertise with Microsoft operating systems, Linux/Unix operating systems, Cisco products, and VMWare/virtualization
  • Ability to prepare and execute detailed computer system analysis, including interim and final reports and presentation of analysis data
  • Ability to research policies, procedures, standards, and guidance, and apply under specific conditions for the protection of information and information systems
  • Ability to conduct vulnerability assessments, risk mitigation, and Plan of Action and Milestone (POA&M) development and tracking
  • Understanding and application of mitigation strategies
  • Strong understanding of DIACAP, RMF, ACAS, and Vulnerability Management
  • Good communication skills, both written and oral, to interact with team members and customers
  • Experience in a team environment


Qualifications: BA in Emergency Management with 2 years of Experience

6. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Excellent analytical and strong communication skills
  • Knowledge of current industry trends
  • Excellent problem-solving ability and able to prioritize workload to ensure timely completion
  • Must have an active/current Secret Security Clearance with the ability to obtain Top Secret
  • Strong communication skills to interact with customers, management personnel, and team members, including documentation and writing skills
  • Must have an ability to present simple, easily understood solutions to executive leadership and customers where complex technical problems exist
  • Experience using eMASS, POA&Ms, HBSS, Nessus, Tanium, and ACAS
  • Must have IAM Level I or IAT Level II certification - CISSP
  • Experience with Microsoft Office, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
  • Experience with Nessus, SCAP Compliance Checker, STIGs, hardening systems, and applying IA controls


Qualifications: BS in Information Assurance with 5 years of Experience

7. Accomplishments for Information Assurance Specialist Cover Letter

  • Must possess comprehensive knowledge of the Navy Information Assurance (IA) and Navy Assessment and Authorization (A&A) process
  • Experience in systems and infrastructure security and knowledge of the Department of the Navy (DON) RMF Process Guide 
  • Experience in Information Technology
  • Experience working with the Risk Management Framework (RMF) Assessment and Authorization (A&A) process
  • Able to research and interpret government regulations and standards
  • Able to provide guidance and assistance to all levels of A&A technical and non-technical personnel
  • Experience with Information Assurance Assessment tools
  • Experience with Encryption technologies
  • Experience with Identity and authentication technologies tools,
  • Knowledge of risk management methodology and strong technical skills and analytic ability
  • Demonstrated ability to act independently when making technical and business judgements
  • Excellent communication and writing skills
  • Ability to conduct vulnerability assessments utilizing scanning tools


Qualifications: BS in Information Systems with 6 years of Experience