Immediate Opening: Cyber Operational Testing Lead

Cardinal Engineering is currently seeking a Cyber Operational Testing Lead to support operational and developmental test activities, with an emphasis on cyber survivability testing for Naval ship systems. This position supports U.S. Navy missions with full-spectrum cyber capabilities, including vulnerability assessment, penetration testing, and specialized cyber expertise.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Lead and mentor a team of cyber engineers conducting assessments in support of Operational Testing (OT) and Developmental Testing (DT)
Plan, coordinate, and execute cyber survivability testing and penetration testing activities
Coordinate and synchronize blue team and red team operations, including test event planning, rules of engagement support, and execution oversight
Interface with Participating Acquisition Resource Managers (PARMs), system owners, and users to align test objectives, schedules, and technical approach
Develop and deliver briefings and decision-support products for senior leaders and non-technical stakeholders
Lead working groups and technical exchange meetings
Document, manage, and verify Objective Quality Evidence (OQE) supporting test events, findings, and recommendations
Track deficiencies, analyze mission and operational impact, and provide prioritized mitigation recommendations
Identify risks, dependencies, and potential conflicts; recommend solutions and support resolution
Summarize and explain test results in written reports and formal out-briefs

Qualifications

Bachelor’s of Science degree in a technical discipline (e.g., Cybersecurity, Information Systems, Computer Science, Engineering) and 10 years (or 7 years with a Masters of Science degree) of relevant experience is required. Experience leading cyber teams, supporting U.S. Government or military customers, and a current Information Assurance Technical III (IAT III) or Information Assurance Manager II (IAM II) certification OR ability to achieve within six months of hiring is required. Ideal candidate has:

Familiarity with Navy Operational Test and Evaluation Force (OPTEVFOR) (or equivalent OT&E organizations) and operationally realistic test execution
Experience with Operational Technology environments and associated cyber considerations
Risk Management Framework (RMF) exposure supporting assessment/authorization or security engineering activities
Modeling and Simulation experience supporting test design, cyber verification, or analysis
Verification, Validation, and Accreditation (VV&A) experience supporting test credibility and evidence quality

Additional Details

Candidates will be based out of the Naval Surface Warfare Center Dahlgren Division, Dam Neck Activity in Virginia Beach, VA with part-time telework. Occasional travel will be required in execution of assigned duties. Must be a US Citizen and currently possess a TOP SECRET security clearance.

Salary commensurate with years and applicability of experience ranging from $120 – $150K.

Employee Benefits

Cardinal Engineering is an equal opportunity employer. We offer industry-leading employee benefits and growth potential is limited only by the candidate’s ambition:

Generous 401k company contribution
Medical, dental, and vision insurance
Flexible spending and dependent care accounts
Short- and long-term disability
Life insurance plans for your family

If you are interested in joining our team, please submit your cover letter and resume to jobs@cardinaleng.com.