Cyber Assessment Lead

Overview

Join our dedicated team at PNNL, where we focus on scientific research and innovative solutions to address national and global challenges. Our National Security Directorate is committed to developing mission-focused, science-based solutions to real-world threats.

As part of the Emerging Threats and Technologies Division, you will collaborate with a diverse team of over 400 professionals in cyber security, data science, and engineering to deliver cutting-edge solutions that integrate policy and technology.

Responsibilities

• Design, deploy, and support systems, networks, and applications that ensure robust cyber security.
• Integrate various components to provide efficient solutions for cyber operations.
• Conduct data and systems engineering tasks to strengthen cyber operations.
• Engineer and implement security measures to protect critical infrastructure.
• Assess and establish security requirements, perform systems analysis, and execute security evaluations.
• Support operational systems through vulnerability assessments and security configurations.
• Innovate and develop new strategies for enhancing cyber defense and system resilience.
• Collaborate with external stakeholders, including law enforcement and governmental agencies, as needed.

The Cyber Assessment Lead will conduct risk assessments for industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technology (OT) environments, focusing on critical infrastructure. Your expertise will help identify vulnerabilities and implement mitigation strategies, enhancing the resilience of vital systems such as HVAC, building management systems, electrical substations, and water control systems. Your role demands strong technical knowledge, disciplined execution, and effective communication with both technical and executive stakeholders.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree with 7+ years of relevant experience, or
• Master's degree with 5+ years of relevant experience, or
• PhD with 3+ years of relevant experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• 4+ years of experience in ICS/OT assessments for critical infrastructure.
• Prior experience at PNNL or other national laboratories.
• Proficient in ICS protocols (Modbus, DNP3, BACnet).
• Hands-on experience with security assessment tools like Nessus, Nmap, or Wireshark.
• Familiar with OT security platforms (Dragos, Claroty, Tenable OT).
• Strong understanding of ICS/OT architectures and secure network segmentation.
• Knowledgeable in enterprise networking concepts (IP addressing, VLANs, firewalls).
• Familiarity with federal cybersecurity requirements (STIGs, CNSSI 1253).
• Ability to lead teams and communicate effectively across technical and non-technical audiences.
• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (or ability to obtain).
• Relevant certifications (GICSP, CISSP, CEH, ISA/IEC 62443).
• Experience with DoD RMF and compliance workflows.
• Knowledge of Zero Trust principles applied to facility control systems.
• Background in infrastructure protection programs (CISA or similar).
• Proven success in leading assessments that led to risk reduction or operational improvements.
• Strong foundation in computer science principles.
• Ability to quickly grasp and apply evolving technical security concepts.
• Experience in translating findings into research opportunities, including technical proposals and presentations.

Working Conditions

Must be able to safely access industrial sites as needed.

Additional Information

You will need to obtain and maintain a federal security clearance, which includes a comprehensive background investigation. This includes reviewing your employment history, education, finances, and criminal history, to ensure trustworthiness and reliability.

Requirements:

• U.S. Citizenship.
• Successful completion of a federal background investigation.
• Participation in pre-employment and random drug testing, as this position is subject to strict drug-free workplace policies.

PNNL provides a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance, flexible work schedules, and a supportive work environment in eastern Washington, known for outdoor recreation and a reasonable cost of living.

This position offers a starting salary of USD $166,800.00/Yr and can go up to USD $275,200.00/Yr, depending on experience and qualifications. The pay scale fosters fair compensation practices and is determined based on relevant skills and the specific requirements of the role.