IT - Cyber Security Specialist IV

An Information System Security Officer (ISSO) is sought to join a team supporting the ClaimsCore Program. This role involves overseeing activities related to system security authorization, compliance, and continuous monitoring for a federal environment. The ISSO will be instrumental in ensuring secure and compliant systems across both legacy integrations and modern cloud-based platforms, supporting major cybersecurity initiatives for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)., * Serve as the ISSO for the ClaimsCore Program, ensuring compliance with FISMA Moderate, FedRAMP Moderate, and CMS ARS 5.1 security controls.

• Oversee the Authorization to Operate (ATO) process, including the preparation and maintenance of all Security Authorization (SA) and Certification & Accreditation (C&A) documentation.
• Conduct risk and vulnerability assessments, track remediation activities, and ensure zero open Critical/High vulnerabilities at go-live.
• Manage security incidents, ensuring notification within 1 hour, and coordinate with stakeholders on mitigation and reporting.
• Develop, maintain, and update security policies, procedures, SSPs, SOPs, and other RMF documentation.
• Support annual and ad hoc federal security assessments, including CSRAP, CFO, and OMB A123 reviews.
• Manage POA&M entries, validate mitigation strategies, and support audit responses.
• Perform continuous monitoring activities, analyze security reports, and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with engineering, operations, and program management teams to embed security into system design.
• Provide subject matter expertise on NIST 800-53 controls, FedRAMP requirements, and CMS-specific security processes.
• Ensure all system changes follow proper security impact analysis procedures prior to deployment.
• Support contractor, government, and third-party security assessments.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience with a BS/BA degree; or
• Minimum of 6 years of experience with an MS/MA degree; or
• Minimum of 3 years of experience with a PhD.

Technical Skills & Experience:

• Demonstrated experience as an ISSO or similar security lead on federal programs following FISMA, NIST RMF, and FedRAMP requirements.
• Hands-on experience developing and reviewing RMF documentation (SSP, SAR, POA&M, CMP, Incident Response Plan, Contingency Plan, etc.).
• Experience conducting or supporting risk assessments, vulnerability analysis, and security audits.
• Familiarity with CMS ARS 5.1, CMS ATO processes, and federal cybersecurity reporting requirements.
• Experience supporting incident response processes, including rapid notification and coordination.
• Strong understanding of vulnerability management tools and processes (e.g., Nessus, Tenable.sc, Qualys).
• Ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, Security+, CEH, or CAP.
• Previous experience supporting CMS, federal healthcare programs, or large federal IT modernization efforts.
• Experience in hybrid environments involving legacy systems and cloud platforms (AWS/Azure) subject to FedRAMP Moderate controls.
• Familiarity with continuous monitoring processes and automation tools.
• Experience supporting external audits such as CSRAP, CFO, and OMB A-123.
• Knowledge of secure software development practices and DevSecOps concepts.
• Experience with enterprise-scale government contractors or large federal IT programs.

Everforth Apex is a world-class IT services company that serves thousands of clients across the globe. When you join Everforth Apex, you become part of a team that values innovation, collaboration, and continuous learning. We offer quality career resources, training, certifications, development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in many awards, including ClearlyRateds Best of Staffing in Talent Satisfaction in the United States and Great Place to Work in the United Kingdom and Mexico. Everforth Apex uses a virtual recruiter as part of the application process. Click for more details. By applying for this job, you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages, or emails from Everforth Apex and its affiliates, and contracted partners. Frequency varies for text messages. Message and data rates may apply. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. You can reply STOP to cancel and HELP for help. You can access our privacy policy at