Cybersecurity Lead – Navy Cyber Defense Operations

About the Role 

Clearance Required: Secret

NAIS is seeking a mission-focused Cybersecurity Lead to provide strategic oversight and hands-on leadership in cybersecurity governance, system authorization, and operational defense across critical Navy IT environments. This position plays a central role in ensuring compliance with the Navy’s Risk Management Framework (RMF) and securing systems operating within NMCI, Defense Business Systems, and RDT&E Zones A–D.

You’ll lead a team of cybersecurity professionals, oversee RMF system authorizations from initiation through ATO, and manage incident response and network defense operations. This role blends deep technical expertise with leadership and project management to deliver cybersecurity solutions aligned with mission requirements, budgets, and timelines. 

Key Responsibilities 

Team Leadership & Mentorship – Lead, coach, and mentor a team of cybersecurity experts supporting RMF governance, system authorization, and operational security for Navy systems. 

System Authorization Management –  Manage end-to-end system authorization processes, ensuring timely and successful Authority to Operate (ATO) under the Navy RMF framework. 

Incident Response & Network Monitoring – Direct real-time incident response, network monitoring, vulnerability assessments, and cyber audits across classified and unclassified environments. 

Cyber Workforce Compliance – Ensure team members meet DoD and Navy cyber workforce qualification standards (e.g., DoD 8140). 

Cross-Functional Collaboration – Coordinate with system owners, ISSMs, command stakeholders, and enterprise security teams to align on cybersecurity goals and compliance requirements. 

Project Execution & Delivery – Lead cybersecurity initiatives to successful completion—on time, within budget, and in compliance with all applicable policies and frameworks. 

Strategic Cybersecurity Advocacy – Foster a culture of security awareness and collaboration across functional and organizational boundaries. 

Required Qualifications 

• A Bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university in an engineering, scientific, business, or technical discipline; AND 

• Five years of experience in the Cybersecurity field that demonstrate experience in: 

• Executing information system authorizations resulting in authority to operate under a DoD Risk Management Framework Assessment and Authorization process; 

• Incident response, network monitoring, and information system audits; 

• Overseeing workforce qualifications to comply with relevant policy; 

• Authorizing information systems resulting in authority to operate from the authorizing official. 

• Four of the five years should demonstrate experience in: 

• Managing teams of cybersecurity professionals with a focus on information system governance and authorization. 

• One of the five years should demonstrate experience in: 

• Authorizing cloud systems resulting in authority to operate from the authorizing official. 

Preferred Qualifications 

•  Familiarity with NAVSEA RMF processes and system accreditation standards. 

•  Experience securing classified Navy/DoD environments. 

•  Prior success authorizing cloud-based systems under Navy AOs. 

•  Demonstrated ability to build coalitions, lead across functional lines, and communicate effectively with stakeholders at all levels. 

About NAIS 

Native American Industrial Solutions (NAIS) is a leading provider of IT and professional services, specializing in network architecture, cybersecurity, risk management, and software solutions. We offer competitive benefits and a workplace culture centered on collaboration, continuous learning, and individual growth.

Our diverse, inclusive team values innovation, integrity, and excellence. Whether you’re leading a team or mentoring the next generation of professionals, NAIS provides the tools and support to help you thrive in your career. 

Equal Opportunity Statement 

NAIS is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. 

Note: This job description outlines the general nature and level of work expected. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties or responsibilities.