Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO)

Spacecraft represent the most pressing unmet need across the entire aerospace industry. As more launch vehicles come online and the cost to orbit decreases, more companies launching payloads to space continue to emerge.

For the first time in history, this influx of payload companies combined with reduced launch costs has resulted in a massive increase in need for commercial spacecraft platforms, known as satellite buses. These buses hold the payloads of our customers and are flown on launch vehicles.

Apex manufactures these satellite buses at scale using a combination of software, vertical integration, and hardware that is designed for manufacturing. Our spacecraft enable the future of society: ranging from earth observation to communications and more.

We’d love for you to join us on our mission of providing humankind access to the galaxy beyond our planet.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Contractor Program Security Officer (CPSO) to support our portfolio of classified programs at the SCI and Special Access Program (SAP) levels reporting to the Apex Director of Security / FSO. In this role, you will serve as the primary security authority for assigned programs, ensuring compliance with all applicable government regulations and directives governing the protection of classified national security information. You will work closely with Program Managers, Government Security Representatives, and senior leadership to develop, implement, and oversee comprehensive security programs that enable mission success while protecting critical assets and information.

Key Responsibilities

Program Security Management

· Serve as the primary security point of contact for assigned SCI and SAP programs, providing day-to-day security oversight and guidance to program personnel.

· Develop, implement, and maintain Program Security Instructions (PSIs), Security Classification Guides (SCGs), and other program-specific security documentation.

· Conduct initial and recurring security briefings, debriefings, and indoctrinations for program personnel in accordance with applicable directives.

· Manage access rosters, visit requests, and personnel security records for all assigned programs.

Compliance and Regulatory Oversight

· Ensure full compliance with the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), ICD 705, ICD 503, DCSA assessment requirements, and all applicable Special Access Program directives.

· Conduct and support self-inspections, government-led inspections, and program reviews; develop and track corrective action plans to resolution.

· Manage and investigate security incidents, violations, and unauthorized disclosures; prepare written reports and coordinate with cognizant government security offices as required.

· Maintain current knowledge of evolving regulations, directives, and policy changes affecting SCI and SAP environments.

Facility and Physical Security

· Support the oversight and accreditation of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) and SAP Facilities (SAPFs), including coordination of construction, modifications, and periodic reviews in accordance with ICD 705 and applicable SAP directives.

· Coordinate with the Facility Security Officer (FSO) and government representatives on facility inspections, accreditation actions, and emergency security procedures.

· Manage access control systems, visitor control procedures, and physical security measures within controlled areas.

Personnel Security

· Process and track personnel security clearance actions, including nominations, periodic reinvestigations, and SCI/SAP accesses through DISS, SIMS, or other government systems.

· Administer and monitor the Insider Threat program in coordination with company and government requirements.

· Counsel employees on security responsibilities, reporting requirements, and foreign travel and contact reporting obligations.

Information and Communications Security

· Oversee the handling, marking, storage, transmission, and destruction of classified materials in accordance with applicable regulations.

· Coordinate with Information System Security Officers (ISSOs) and ISSMs to ensure classified information system usage aligns with program authorization and need-to-know requirements.

· Manage classification management activities, including derivative classification guidance and SCG administration.

Required Qualifications

· Active DoD Top Secret clearance with SCI eligibility with current investigation and ability to maintain a Top Secret clearance with Special Program access.

· 5+ years of experience as a Program Security Officer, CPSO, or equivalent role in classified SCI and/or SAP environments.

· Demonstrated working knowledge of NISPOM (32 CFR Part 117), Intelligence Community Directives (ICDs), and DoD SAP policy and directives.

· Experience managing SCIF and/or SAPF accreditation processes.

· Familiarity with personnel security systems such as DISS, NBIS, and SIMS.

· Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, accurate security documentation and reports.

· Ability to work independently and exercise sound judgment in ambiguous or sensitive situations.

Preferred Qualifications

· Bachelor's degree in Security Management, Cybersecurity, Intelligence Studies, or a related field; equivalent work experience considered.

· DoD Security Professional Education Development (SPeD) certification (SFPC, SAPPC, or equivalent) or similar professional security credential.

· NCMS Industrial Security Professional (ISP) certification.

· Experience supporting multiple simultaneous programs across different government customers.

· Familiarity with COMSEC procedures and oversight.

· Prior military or government security experience at the program or staff level.

Working Conditions

This position requires regular onsite presence within a classified facility. Candidates must be willing and able to work within SCIFs and SAPFs in compliance with all applicable security protocols. Occasional travel to government sites or other company locations may be required.

· Experience supporting multiple simultaneous programs across different government customers

· Familiarity with COMSEC procedures and oversight.

· Prior military or government security experience at the program or staff level.

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Why Join Apex?

Apex believes in creating a work environment that you look forward to embracing every day. Our employees love working at Apex, and we want you to love it too. We're a fast-growing startup that has raised more than $500M in funding, and we invest heavily in our people from day one.

What We Offer For Full-time Employees:

Shared upside: Receive equity in Apex, letting you benefit from the work you create

Best-in-class healthcare: 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision for you and your dependents, plus $100k life insurance at no cost

Comprehensive PTO package to reset and recharge - starting at 15 days vacation, growing to 20+ days annually, plus 10 paid holidays

Competitive 401(k) plan with generous matching - 100% match on first 3%, 50% on next 2%

8 weeks paid parental leave plus childcare reimbursement up to $350/day for work-related travel

Daily catered lunch and unlimited snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day

Vibrant community: Monthly office socials, pickleball tournaments, run club, and gatherings for you and your family

Your dream desk setup and all the tools you need to be your most productive self

World-class Playa Vista office with the benefit of in-person collaboration with amazing coworkers and flexibility to integrate work and life

Real impact opportunity: Work alongside experts from aerospace, new space, and other cutting-edge industries to make a lasting difference

Additional Information:

Compensation ranges are set by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. A candidate's specific level and base pay are