INFORMATION SYSTEMS SECURITY ENGINEER SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Published: Sep 17, 2025 - The Information Systems Security Engineer has experience supporting C4ISR systems with RMF package development and expert knowledge of DoD IA/Cybersecurity policies, RMF, and NIST SP 800-53. This role demands an active CompTIA Security+ certification, proficiency with tools such as eMASS, ACAS, STIGs, and SCAP, and advanced skills in cybersecurity, IT, and cloud/network architecture. In addition, the engineer needs strong communication and collaboration abilities to engage stakeholders and ensure system confidentiality, integrity, and availability.

Essential Hard and Soft Skills for a Standout Information Systems Security Engineer Resume
  • Cybersecurity Engineering
  • Risk Management
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • Security Architecture
  • RMF Compliance
  • System Authorization
  • Information Assurance
  • Security Documentation
  • Continuous Monitoring
  • Access Control
  • Stakeholder Collaboration
  • Technical Leadership
  • Communication Skills
  • Problem Solving
  • Team Collaboration
  • Briefing Preparation
  • Customer Interaction
  • Project Management
  • Stakeholder Coordination
  • Security Training

Summary of Information Systems Security Engineer Knowledge and Qualifications on Resume

1. BS in Information Technology with 5 years of Experience

  • In-depth knowledge and experience with installing, configuring, and securing SQL per DoD STIGs.
  • Advanced CISCO networking experience. 
  • Must have in-depth knowledge of routing and switching, as well as configuring and hardening per DoD STIGs.
  • In-depth knowledge and experience with all versions of Microsoft Windows, server, and client.
  • Knowledge and experience in installing, configuring, and securing all aspects of VMWare.
  • Knowledge and experience in evaluating proposed security architectures and designs against security compliance requirements.
  • Basic understanding of information security principles and risk assessment techniques.
  • Experience with using NESSUS and other scanning applications.
  • Advanced communications skills, able to work well with others, independently, and as part of a team.
  • Must be able to work well with others, including educating individuals who may not share the same level of understanding of IT and security.

2. BS in Network Engineering with 4 years of Experience

  • DoD 8570.01-M IAT Level II certification (preferably Level III).
  • Experience applying RMF security and program protection requirements across all phases of the SDLC.
  • Knowledge of Layer 3 network architecture and ability to produce network diagrams using Visio, MagicDraw, or similar MBSE tools.
  • Understanding of common information system threats and their impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
  • Familiarity with system testing, evaluation methods, and RMF assessment processes.
  • Experience with DoD export control regulations.
  • Proficiency with IBM DOORS or comparable requirements management tools.
  • Ability to produce clear, authoritative security artifacts, plans, and reports.
  • Proven skill in working across engineering, program management, and security teams.
  • Capable of evaluating complex technical and security issues and proposing practical solutions.

3. BS in Computer Science with 7 years of Experience

  • Strong technical background or prior System Administrator experience.
  • Proven work experience in PMO Security, with IASAE level II certification (CASP+ CE, CISSP (or Associate), CSSLP.
  • Application Security and Development experience ( OWASP/ ASD STIG).
  • Strong knowledge of the Risk Management Framework NIST SP 800-53.
  • Strong Knowledge of Agile methodology.
  • Experience with Static and Dynamic software testing products.
  • Experience with Microsoft Team Foundation Server and Application Lifecycle Management tools.
  • Strong client-facing and teamwork skills.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills to set and meet deadlines.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills.
  • Able to serve as SCRUM Master and facilitate Agile ceremonies.

4. BS in Computer Engineering with 6 years of Experience

  • Cybersecurity/IA experience supporting C4ISR systems with direct RMF package development.
  • Active CompTIA Security+ certification.
  • Expert knowledge of DoD IA/Cybersecurity policies, RMF, and NIST SP 800-53.
  • Advanced understanding of Cybersecurity, IT, Cloud/Network Architecture, and related concepts.
  • Proficient with systems, networks, deployment environments (data center, cloud), and security threats/vulnerabilities.
  • Skilled in DoD tools for vulnerability/compliance (eMASS, ACAS, STIGs, SRGs, SCAP).
  • Experience in developing RMF artifacts, planning/executing security assessments, and reporting to IPTs, Program Offices, and external stakeholders.
  • Background in program development/oversight, ensuring system confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
  • Strong communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
  • Effective collaborator across IPTs, contractors, and government to align on security requirements.
  • Solid analytical abilities, with expertise in assessing emerging threats, balancing trade-offs, and providing actionable recommendations under pressure.

5. BS in Systems Engineering with 10 years of Experience

  • Experience as an Information Systems Security Engineer (ISSE) or Network Engineer on programs and/or contracts with the customer space.
  • Current CASP or CISSP certification.
  • CISSP-ISSEP certification (DoD 8570 baseline, Level III)
  • Strong technical writing skills with the ability to produce clear, concise, and comprehensive documentation.
  • Excellent communication skills with the confidence to deliver briefings to senior-level DoD officials, both in formal presentations and ad hoc discussions.
  • Expertise in network technology and systems security engineering.
  • Experience in identifying, researching, characterizing, and documenting security weaknesses related to operating systems, software applications, firmware, network hardware components, as well as network architecture design and documented policies and procedures.
  • Experience developing and documenting system security requirements and conducting requirements gap analysis.
  • Knowledge of, and practical experience with the NIST Special Publications 800 Series, CNSSI 1253, and DoD 8500.
  • Experience with network technologies and the ability to demonstrate knowledge of network protocols, communications systems, and architectures.
  • Significant hands-on experience implementing security and/or network components, i.e., routers, firewalls, IPS, IDS, etc.
  • Ability to work independently within a schedule and with little direction. 
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