Subject Matter Expert (SME)

As a Subject Matter Expert (SME) at Cybervance, your primary responsibilities will revolve around developing and enhancing Operational Technology (OT) policies for the Social Security Administration. This includes collaborating with various stakeholders to assess existing environments, identifying gaps, and creating cybersecurity policies that align with industry standards such as NIST and IEC. You will document controls, support authority to operate (ATO) processes, and provide educational content to ensure compliance and awareness among staff.

To excel in the Subject Matter Expert (SME) role at Cybervance, candidates should possess in-depth knowledge of Operational Technology (OT) policies and cybersecurity frameworks, especially NIST SP 800 and IEC 62443 standards. Experience in the government or critical infrastructure sectors is highly desirable, along with strong documentation and communication skills. A collaborative mindset and the ability to assess environments critically will also be important.

The Subject Matter Expert (SME) plays a crucial role in enhancing the security of Operational Technology systems at Cybervance by developing comprehensive policies that align with best practices and regulatory standards. By conducting thorough assessments, identifying vulnerabilities, and documenting controls, the SME ensures that the OT systems used by the Social Security Administration are secure, reliable, and efficient, directly impacting the agency’s operational integrity.

At Cybervance, the work environment for the Subject Matter Expert (SME) is collaborative and dynamic, with a focus on innovation and teamwork. You will interact regularly with stakeholders, including SSA employees and contractors, attend meetings, and engage in discussions about policy formulation and compliance strategies. Given the remote nature of the position, you will have the flexibility to manage your work hours while ensuring timely completion of your projects.

A Subject Matter Expert (SME) directly influences the success of Cybervance's projects by developing crucial OT policies that safeguard the infrastructure of the Social Security Administration. By identifying weaknesses, closing security gaps, and providing educational resources, the SME significantly contributes to the overall safety and compliance of operational technology systems, ensuring they operate effectively and securely.

When answering this question, emphasize your hands-on experience with NIST SP 800 and IEC 62443. Provide specific examples where you applied these standards in developing cybersecurity policies and practices. Highlight your understanding of how these frameworks are crucial for ensuring operational integrity and security in critical infrastructure.

Explain your methodical approach to gap identification, which should include assessing existing frameworks and conducting stakeholder interviews. Discuss how you prioritize gaps based on risk assessment and regulatory requirements, and describe how you document these findings to inform policy development.

Provide a concise overview of a specific OT cybersecurity policy you developed in the past. Explain the context, your role in the process, the stakeholders involved, and the outcome. This will showcase your practical experience and ability to deliver results effectively.

Discuss your strategies for engaging stakeholders, such as conducting workshops, surveys, or regular meetings to gather input. Emphasizing the importance of collaboration and communication will demonstrate your ability to manage relationships and facilitate dialogue effectively.

Mention the resources you utilize, such as industry publications, webinars, and professional organizations. Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest threats, vulnerabilities, and technology advancements that can impact OT environments.

Share real examples of challenges you encountered, such as resistance from stakeholders or compliance issues. Discuss the strategies you employed to overcome these challenges, illustrating your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

Describe how you plan for ongoing monitoring and audit activities to ensure compliance with the developed policies. Talk about the importance of training and awareness programs for staff as part of maintaining adherence and ensuring the policies are effectively applied.

Detail your preferred documentation techniques, such as using clear, concise language, visual aids, and structured formats. Explain how you ensure the documentation is accessible to all stakeholders, fostering understanding and compliance.

Discuss your familiarity with ATO processes and how your role as an SME can facilitate achieving ATO. Emphasize the importance of thoroughly documenting controls, demonstrating compliance with regulatory frameworks, and engaging stakeholders throughout the process.

Share your aspirations for professional growth within the cybersecurity field and how you plan to contribute positively to organizational objectives. Discuss your desire to influence policies not just within Cybervance but also across the industry, ensuring robust security in OT environments.