Senior Special Programs Security Manager (CSSO/CPSO)
About this role
Professionals who thrive on navigating regulatory complexity and building foundational security frameworks for national security missions will find a natural fit here. This position exists within the Industrial Security team to enable classified work by translating intricate government mandates into functional operating models across Intelligence Community and Department of Defense environments.
Daily responsibilities center on directing security operations for Sensitive Compartmented Information and Special Access Programs, acting as a Contractor Special Security Officer or Contractor Program Security Officer. The chosen candidate will collaborate closely with legal, facilities, engineering, and program leadership to oversee facility accreditations, manage customer engagement, and mentor security personnel while maintaining strict compliance standards.
What you will do
- Lead SCI and SAP security operations across the complete program lifecycle, managing access administration, security plans, and incident reporting.
- Serve as the designated CSSO, CPSO, or equivalent security official for assigned government customers and classified initiatives.
- Build trusted relationships with Intelligence Community and Department of Defense customers alongside external security stakeholders.
- Oversee the establishment, accreditation, and inspection readiness of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities and Special Access Program Facilities.
- Translate government regulations and security classification guides into practical operating procedures.
- Coordinate closely with personnel security, classified IT, and facilities teams to establish integrated safeguards.
- Conduct self-inspections, direct corrective actions, and escalate risks that could impact program execution.
What you need
- Substantial experience leading contractor security for SCI and SAP programs as a CSSO, CPSO, or comparable security official.
- Working knowledge of the NISPOM, ICDs 703, 704, and 705, and DoDM 5205.07.
- Direct background in establishing, accrediting, and operating SCIFs or SAPFs.
- Active Top Secret eligibility, current SCI access, and a current counterintelligence polygraph at the time of application.
- Ability to obtain and maintain additional customer-required accesses such as a full-scope polygraph.
Nice to have
- Experience across multiple Intelligence Community or SAP customers
- Industrial security program buildouts
- COMSEC expertise
- Insider threat program experience
Benefits
- Offers Equity
- Relocation assistance
Questions candidates ask
Where is this job located?
This role is based in San Francisco, CA, or Washington, DC. OpenAI uses a hybrid work model of three days in the office per week, and additional onsite presence or travel may be required based on program needs.
What are the salary and equity details?
The salary range is $158K to $225K, and the position includes offers of equity.
What security clearances are required?
The position requires active Top Secret eligibility, current SCI access, and a current counterintelligence polygraph at the time of application. Candidates must also be able to obtain and maintain additional customer-required accesses.