Director of Security (Copy)
Summary
Lead security strategy, compliance, and operations for a defense-focused startup, overseeing physical, personnel, and cybersecurity to support classified programs and government contracts.
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
Firestorm Labs is seeking a proactive and strategic security leader to join our growing team in San Diego. The Director of Security will lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the company’s comprehensive security program in support of defense operations, classified programs, and government contracts. This role is responsible for ensuring compliance with all applicable U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and federal security regulations while safeguarding company personnel, facilities, information, and intellectual property. The Director of Security will oversee a team of security professionals and manage all aspects of the company’s security posture, including physical security, personnel security, cybersecurity coordination, insider threat mitigation, and crisis response.
In addition, this position will own the end-to-end cybersecurity and information technology (IT) programs for the organization, including oversight of unclassified and controlled unclassified networks and systems. The role will closely partner with business leadership, engineering, operations, and IT to implement scalable security processes, technologies, and policies that support both regulatory compliance and operational effectiveness.
What You'll Do
- Develop and implement an enterprise-wide security strategy aligned with company objectives and defense contract requirements.
- Serve as the principal security advisor to executive leadership on all matters related to physical, personnel, and information security.
- Establish and maintain policies, procedures, and controls to safeguard classified, controlled unclassified, and sensitive information.
- Lead continuous improvement of the company’s overall security posture across personnel, facilities, and systems.
- Ensure compliance with the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and applicable requirements from the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).
- Maintain compliance with U.S. Department of Defense security requirements and other relevant federal regulations.
- Oversee facility clearance (FCL) management and personnel security clearance processes.
- Manage government security audits, inspections, and investigations.
- Oversee physical security programs including access control, surveillance systems, alarms, and secure facility design.
- Implement and manage procedures for classified material handling and storage.
- Conduct site security assessments and vulnerability testing to identify and mitigate risks.
- Direct personnel security operations including background investigations, clearance processing, and ongoing monitoring.
- Lead the company’s insider threat program, including detection, reporting, and mitigation processes.
- Oversee security education, awareness, and training programs for employees and contractors.
- Ensure alignment between physical security, cybersecurity, and IT operations.
- Support compliance with cybersecurity frameworks including NIST SP 800-171, DFARS 252.204-7012, and other applicable requirements.
- Ensure adherence to security policies, legal requirements, and industry standards (CMMC).
- Lead incident response coordination for security-related events and breaches.
- Develop and maintain crisis response, emergency preparedness, and business continuity plans.
- Serve as incident commander during major security events or emergencies.
- Lead and mentor security and IT team members, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
- Manage departmental budgets, vendor relationships, and security technology investments.
- Establish metrics and reporting to measure program effectiveness and reduce organizational risk.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Security Management, Criminal Justice, Intelligence Studies, or related field
- 10+ years of progressive security leadership experience, preferably within a defense, aerospace, or government contracting environment.
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations, with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance.
- Experience serving as a Facility Security Officer (FSO) or overseeing FSO functions.
- Extensive knowledge of NISPOM, DoD security requirements, and federal compliance standards.
- Strong understanding of risk management principles and experience conducting risk assessments and vulnerability management, including in classified environments.
- Experience with incident response planning and execution, particularly concerning classified information.
- Familiarity with data protection laws and regulations.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex security requirements to technical and non-technical stakeholders.
- Extensive knowledge of NIST SP 800-171, DFARS 252.204-7012, ISO 27001, ITAR, EAR, CUI handling requirements, and classified information security protocols.
- Experience with security audit processes and interfacing with regulatory auditors.
Preferred Qualifications
- 12+ years of progressive security leadership experience, preferably within a defense, aerospace, or government contracting environment.
- Professional Industry or Security Certification; i.e., Industrial Security Professional (ISP), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), or Physical Security Professional (PSP).
- Prior experience as an Information Security Officer or ISSM
- Experience with classified information systems (e.g., Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System - JWICS, Secret Internet Protocol Router Network - SIPRNet).
- Prior experience in an early-stage, high-growth tech or hardware startup environment.
- Ability to drive change, mature processes, and adapt quality systems to evolving business needs.
- Ability to influence change and adapt processes as business needs evolve
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex, fast-paced operations in a dynamic environment
Work Environment
- This role is based in San Diego, CA.
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.
Compensation
U.S. Range: $200,000 - $230,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. 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 under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.