Journeyman Cybersecurity Specialist (ISSO Focus)

The primary responsibilities of a Journeyman Cybersecurity Specialist at NexThreat include support for the development and implementation of cybersecurity plans, conducting risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with DoD and DAF policies. You will be involved in the assessment and authorization (A&A) process, vulnerability scanning, incident response activities, and providing guidance to system owners and users. Essentially, you'll play a key role in maintaining a secure environment across multiple DAF bases.

To qualify for the Journeyman Cybersecurity Specialist position at NexThreat, candidates should ideally have a Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, or a related field, or have 4 years of relevant experience. Additionally, a minimum of 3 years of experience in cybersecurity focusing on ISSO responsibilities is required. It's important to have a strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, practices, and regulatory requirements.

A Journeyman Cybersecurity Specialist at NexThreat should be familiar with several key tools including ACAS, SCAP, eMASS, Xacta, Splunk, and Microsoft Sentinel. Familiarity with these tools will be instrumental in conducting vulnerability assessments, managing security controls, and ensuring effective incident response. Understanding NIST SP 800-series publications is also crucial for this position.

Yes, a current DoD Secret Clearance is required for the Journeyman Cybersecurity Specialist role at NexThreat. Additionally, candidates must be eligible to obtain and maintain a Common Access Card (CAC) as part of the role's responsibilities. This is critical as it ensures that you can effectively navigate the security requirements necessary for the position.

Successful candidates for the Journeyman Cybersecurity Specialist position at NexThreat should possess excellent verbal and written communication skills, a deep understanding of cybersecurity principles and technologies, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team. Familiarity with security control implementation, assessment, vulnerability management, and incident response processes are also essential skills that enhance effectiveness in this role.

The Risk Management Framework (RMF) process is critical for assessing and managing risk for information systems. In an interview, you should explain that RMF consists of six steps: Categorize, Select, Implement, Assess, Authorize, and Monitor. Each step involves a detailed examination of security controls and their effectiveness. Employers look for professionals who can demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and practical application of RMF.

In your response, emphasize the systematic approach you take to vulnerability management, which includes continuous scanning, risk assessment, prioritizing vulnerabilities based on severity, and applying timely patches. Discussing experience with tools like ACAS or Splunk will also be advantageous. Highlight that effective communication with stakeholders is key to remediating vulnerabilities properly.

When answering this question, share specific examples of incidents you've managed, including the steps taken for identification, containment, eradication, and recovery. Highlight any frameworks or guidelines you've followed (like NIST) and tools used during your response. Providing quantifiable results (like reduced downtime or restored services) can strengthen your answer.

Prepare your response by outlining a systematic approach: first, review existing documentation and security controls, closely follow compliance requirements, and conduct internal audits or readiness assessments. Mention any tools or frameworks you’d incorporate, such as using eMASS to track compliance. The goal is to ensure that you're fully prepared for an external security assessment.

Show your commitment by discussing various methods you use to stay informed, such as subscribing to cybersecurity journals, attending conferences, and participating in professional organizations like (ISC)². Talk about how you implement learned best practices in your current role, emphasizing continuous professional development as a necessity in the ever-evolving cybersecurity field.

This target answer should discuss prevalent threats such as ransomware, insider threats, or advanced persistent threats (APTs). Explain your reasoning by citing recent events or incidents in the industry. It's important to show that you are not only aware of current trends but also understand the implications they have on cybersecurity measures.

In your answer, discuss your familiarity with regulations such as NIST SP 800-series and how you would regularly audit and update security policies to reflect compliance. Mention conducting training for staff and keeping abreast of any updates to regulations. Compliance isn't just about following procedures; it's about fostering a culture of security within the organization.

Choose a project where you played a key role, outlining your contributions from planning through execution and reflection. Highlight your teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Emphasizing a measurable positive outcome, such as decreased security incidents or improved compliance, will illustrate your effectiveness in the role.

Explain the methodologies you utilize, such as NIST or ISO standards, and talk about how you tailor your assessments based on specific organizational needs. Mention the importance of various assessments like vulnerability assessments and penetration testing, along with effective reporting practices that communicate results clearly to stakeholders.

Your answer should reflect an understanding of the importance of accurate documentation. Discuss the practices you follow, like regularly updating documentation, ensuring clarity, and facilitating accessibility for all relevant stakeholders. Highlight how thorough documentation plays a crucial role in compliance and knowledge transfer within the organization.