Software Security Engineer

As a Software Security Engineer II at Vast, your responsibilities will include designing, implementing, and maintaining various backend systems and security tools. You'll work closely with engineering teams to assist in building and securing their features, peer reviewing software, and fostering a collaborative environment. Your role is crucial in supporting Vast's mission-critical security services that help ensure the safety of our innovative space technologies.

To qualify for the Software Security Engineer II position at Vast, applicants should have a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field, along with at least four years of experience in building security services. A strong background in modern programming languages such as Python, C++, Rust, or Go, and experience with cloud security applications is essential. Proficiency in using GNU/Linux, writing shell scripts, and a collaborative mindset are also highly desired.

The Software Security Engineer II position at Vast is a full-time role based in Long Beach, California. While some flexibility may be offered, the nature of the work, which includes collaboration with engineering teams and vital mission support, typically requires a presence in the office. Candidates should be prepared to work evenings or weekends as necessary to meet mission-critical milestones.

In the Software Security Engineer II role at Vast, you can expect to work on exciting projects that include designing and implementing security features for our space station technologies, securing applications that support our operations, and enhancing cybersecurity protocols within our cloud infrastructure. You'll have the opportunity to engage with various teams on impactful projects that contribute to humanity's venture into space.

Vast offers a competitive compensation package for the Software Security Engineer II role, with salary ranges between $95,000 and $140,000, depending on experience and qualifications. In addition, employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including 100% medical, dental, and vision coverage, flexible paid time off, short and long-term disability insurance, life insurance, access to a robust 401(k) plan, and unique perks like ClassPass credits and fully catered meals.

When answering this question, emphasize specific projects where you designed or implemented security services. Discuss the technologies you used, any challenges you faced, and how you ensured effective security protocols were in place. Present quantifiable results, such as reduced vulnerabilities or improved security metrics.

Highlight your ability to communicate and collaborate with diverse teams effectively. Provide examples of how you’ve worked cross-functionally in past roles, focusing on specific instances where your contributions helped refine security features or improved overall security architecture.

Discuss your proficiency in relevant programming languages, such as Python, Rust, Go, etc., and relate them to past projects where you developed security applications or services. Share experiences that demonstrate your ability to write secure code, conduct audits, and patch vulnerabilities.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your response. Describe the security challenge, your role in addressing it, the steps you took, and the eventual outcome. This showcases your problem-solving skills and resilience in a high-stakes environment.

Be specific about the tools you’ve worked with, such as IAM services, API security solutions, or vulnerability scanning tools. Detail how you leverage these in cloud systems and the impact they had on the overall security posture of the applications.

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning through resources such as webinars, conferences, publications, and online courses. Mention any active participation in communities or forums and how you apply new knowledge to your work as a Software Security Engineer.

Speak to specific technical experiences you have with API security, explaining the common vulnerabilities and the methods you’ve used to secure APIs. Highlight the significance of API security in modern applications, especially in a cloud setting.

Your answer should reflect a comprehensive understanding of secure software development lifecycle practices. Discuss elements such as threat modeling, code reviews, and security testing, illustrating how they collectively contribute to robust software security.

Provide examples of how you prioritize tasks and maintain rigorous security standards even under pressure. Discuss time management strategies and how effective communication with your team helps navigate tight schedules.

List relevant certifications, like CISSP, CEH, or others, and explain how the knowledge gained from these credentials applies to your role. Discuss how continuous training has equipped you with the necessary skills to address both current and future security challenges.