COMSEC Manager

Key Responsibilities:

• COMSEC Operations Management:
• Manage and oversee day-to-day operations of the COMSEC account, ensuring compliance with DHS policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Maintain 100% accountability of all COMSEC materials, including encryption devices, keys, and other sensitive communication equipment.
• Ensure the proper storage, handling, and destruction of COMSEC materials, adhering to established security protocols and guidelines.
• Policy Development and Execution:
• Develop, coordinate, and execute COMSEC policies and procedures in alignment with DHS directives and national security standards.
• Stay up-to-date with changing COMSEC regulations and industry standards, ensuring that policies remain compliant and effective.
• COMSEC Training and Support:
• Conduct COMSEC training for DHS personnel, ensuring that staff are knowledgeable about security requirements, procedures, and best practices.
• Provide guidance and support to personnel during COMSEC material handling, encryption, and secure communication practices.
• Emergency and Contingency Support:
• Provide 24/7 on-site support during major exercises, contingencies, and emergencies, ensuring the availability and security of COMSEC resources.
• Assist in the response to real-world missions, providing the necessary COMSEC expertise and operational support during critical situations.
• Work closely with DHS leadership and other agencies to ensure seamless communication and data security during national security events and incidents.
• Coordination and Communication:
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all COMSEC-related issues and concerns within DHS and with external agencies.
• Collaborate with command staff, technical teams, and external stakeholders to ensure the effective use of COMSEC materials and systems.
• Provide reports and updates to senior leadership regarding COMSEC status, training progress, and compliance issues.
• Incident Response and Reporting:
• Lead the response to any COMSEC-related incidents or breaches, ensuring that security protocols are followed and all necessary actions are taken to mitigate risks.
• Prepare and submit detailed reports on COMSEC activities, incidents, and audits to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Security and Compliance:
• Ensure strict adherence to DHS and federal regulations regarding the management, safeguarding, and destruction of COMSEC materials.
• Implement risk management strategies to identify potential vulnerabilities in COMSEC systems and take proactive measures to address security concerns.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Cybersecurity, Communications, or a related field. Equivalent work experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
• Experience:
• 8+ years of experience in COMSEC management, communications security, or a similar role, with demonstrated expertise in managing COMSEC accounts and materials.
• Extensive knowledge of COMSEC policies, encryption techniques, key management, and secure communications systems.
• Experience supporting large-scale operations, exercises, and real-world missions involving COMSEC resources and security.
• Skills and Competencies:
• Strong understanding of COMSEC protocols, regulations, and security procedures.
• Expertise in managing and maintaining secure communication systems and encryption devices.
• Ability to train and educate staff on COMSEC policies, secure communications, and key management practices.
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills to resolve complex COMSEC-related issues.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to coordinate and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders at all levels.
• Ability to work under pressure and remain available 24/7 during critical incidents or exercises.
• Certifications (Preferred):
• COMSEC-related certifications (e.g., COMSEC Custodian, Key Management, or similar).
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) preferred.
• Relevant certifications in cybersecurity or telecommunications (e.g., CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Security Auditor).

Security Clearance: