Share
If you’ve Googled “Information Systems Security Officer job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over: walls of bullet points, generic buzzwords, and boilerplate compliance language. Sure, they tell you what the job is, but they don’t tell you how to write a post that actually attracts a great ISSO.
Here’s the truth: generic ISSO job posts might tick HR boxes, but they rarely inspire the right candidates to apply. That’s a problem—because this is one of the most critical roles in your organization. An ISSO isn’t just a checklist follower; they’re the guardian of your systems, the person ensuring your organization meets security compliance requirements, and the one who keeps risks in check before they become headlines.
Before we dive into templates and examples, I recommend reading our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/—it’ll help you avoid the common mistakes that drive away top talent. But if you’re ready to see how to turn a compliance-heavy role into an engaging, high-converting job description, let’s get started.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
What An Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) Actually Does (Plain-English Definition)
An Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) is the point person responsible for protecting an organization’s information systems and ensuring they meet security and compliance requirements. Think of them as the bridge between technical teams, leadership, and regulatory bodies.
Their day-to-day work goes far beyond “checking boxes.” A great ISSO anticipates threats, ensures systems are configured securely, monitors for vulnerabilities, and keeps security documentation airtight for audits. They’re also an advisor—guiding teams on best practices, training staff on security awareness, and helping leadership make informed decisions about risk.
In plain terms: the ISSO’s job is to make sure your systems stay secure, compliant, and trusted—so your organization can operate without disruptions, fines, or reputational damage.
Two Great Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Experienced ISSO Job Description (Culture-First Style)
📌 Job Title: Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) – Safeguard Our Systems & Shape Our Security Culture
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (Washington, D.C. area)
💰 Salary: $115,000 – $135,000/year + Benefits
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | 9AM–5PM
🎥 A Quick Word From the Team
[Insert Loom/YouTube link here] — Hear directly from our security and compliance team about the exciting projects you’ll be working on and the culture we’ve built here at Cyvera Solutions.
Who We Are
At Cyvera Solutions, our mission is simple: protect what matters most—our people, our systems, and our reputation. We provide cybersecurity and compliance support to federal agencies and private sector clients, ensuring that security isn’t just a checkbox but a core value embedded in every decision.
We’re looking for a proactive, detail-oriented Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) who’s not only fluent in compliance frameworks like NIST RMF and FISMA, but also skilled at building a culture of security across the organization.
Our Culture
We work in a field where accuracy matters and deadlines can’t be missed. But we also believe in supporting our people—through collaboration, continuous learning, and respect for work-life balance.
What You’ll Do
- Oversee and maintain system security plans (SSPs), POA&Ms, and other compliance documentation.
- Monitor security controls and ensure continuous compliance with FISMA, FedRAMP, and NIST RMF requirements.
- Conduct security risk assessments, vulnerability scans, and incident response coordination.
- Partner with IT, development, and compliance teams to ensure security is built into every stage of system operations.
- Train staff on security awareness and best practices.
What We’re Looking For
- 3+ years as an ISSO or similar security/compliance role.
- Strong knowledge of NIST RMF, FISMA, and FedRAMP.
- Experience with tools like Splunk, Nessus, or ACAS.
- Active security clearance preferred.
- Certifications like CISSP, CISM, or Security+ are a plus.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Transparent leadership and a culture of trust.
- Health, dental, and vision coverage from day one.
- 15 days PTO + 12 paid holidays + flex days.
- Training budget for certifications and conferences.
- Clear promotion paths and opportunities for growth.
📥 How to Apply
We believe in a respectful, transparent hiring process. We use WorkScreen.io to evaluate candidates based on real-world skills—not just resumes. Apply here: [Application Link].
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train ISSO Job Description
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) – Learn, Grow & Protect Our Systems
💼 Type: Full-Time | Remote with Occasional Travel
💰 Salary: $70,000 – $85,000/year + Benefits
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | Flexible Hours
🎥 A Quick Word From the Team
[Insert Loom/YouTube link here] — Meet some of our security analysts and ISSOs at Cyvera Solutions as they share what it’s like to grow your career here while working on meaningful, high-impact projects.
Who We Are
We believe security talent can come from anywhere—and we’re proof of it. At Cyvera Solutions, we’re passionate about developing the next generation of cybersecurity leaders. That’s why we’re looking for someone eager to learn the ISSO role, even if they don’t meet every “traditional” qualification.
What You’ll Do
- Assist in developing and maintaining security documentation (SSPs, POA&Ms, audit reports).
- Learn to perform vulnerability scans and analyze results.
- Support incident response activities and help track remediation progress.
- Participate in security awareness training for staff.
- Work alongside experienced ISSOs to gain hands-on compliance and security skills.
What We’re Looking For
- A genuine interest in cybersecurity and compliance.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to communicate clearly with both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Basic understanding of IT systems (through coursework, bootcamps, or self-study).
- Willingness to pursue certifications (Security+, CAP, or similar).
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Paid training and certification reimbursement.
- Mentorship from seasoned cybersecurity professionals.
- Flexible work hours and remote work options.
- A mission-driven team where your contributions are noticed and valued.
📥 How to Apply
We want to meet driven people—not just perfect resumes. Apply via WorkScreen.io so we can understand your skills and potential through a fair, practical evaluation. Apply here: [Application Link].
Smart Hiring Starts Here
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Breakdown of Why These ISSO Job Posts Work
- Clear, Specific Job Titles
Instead of “ISSO” or “Security Officer,” the titles explain the role and purpose:
- “Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) – Safeguard Our Systems & Shape Our Security Culture” instantly signals responsibility and mission.
- “Entry-Level Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) – Learn, Grow & Protect Our Systems” tells candidates they can apply even without years of experience.
Clear titles filter the right applicants and discourage random, unqualified submissions.
- Video From the Team
Adding a Loom or YouTube link before the “Who We Are” section humanizes the post. Candidates see real team members, hear about the culture firsthand, and feel a stronger connection to the company. This builds trust before they even read the responsibilities. - Warm, Mission-Focused Intros
Both versions open with the company’s mission and the role’s bigger purpose, not a generic corporate blurb. This appeals to ISSOs who want meaningful work—not just a paycheck. Security professionals, especially in compliance-heavy environments, value knowing why their work matters. - Transparent Salary & Perks
The pay range is upfront, along with key benefits like PTO, flex days, and training budgets. This saves time for both sides and signals honesty—a trait top talent values. - Detailed but Digestible Responsibilities
Tasks are explained in plain English, showing the impact of the role rather than dumping jargon. For example: “Keep our systems secure and compliant” instead of just “Manage SSPs.” This helps candidates envision themselves in the role. - Flexible Requirements for Entry-Level Candidates
The second template makes it clear that passion and willingness to learn are valued. This widens the applicant pool and can uncover high-potential hires who’d normally self-exclude. - Culture Is Demonstrated, Not Claimed
Instead of saying “We value collaboration,” the posts give examples—mentorship programs, transparent leadership, conference budgets. This turns vague values into tangible actions. - Respectful, Transparent Hiring Process
Both versions explain exactly how to apply, note the use of WorkScreen.io, and promise fair, skill-based evaluation. This stands out in an industry where applicants often never hear back. - Human Tone Throughout
No lifeless, government-style language. Even in a compliance-heavy role, the wording stays approachable while still showing credibility. This balance is key for attracting security talent who want both professionalism and a positive culture.
Bad ISSO Job Description Example (And Why It Falls Short)
❌ Job Title: Information Systems Security Officer
💼 Type: Full-Time
📍 Location: Washington, D.C.
📅 Deadline: May 30, 2025
Job Summary
We are looking for an Information Systems Security Officer to manage and maintain security compliance documentation, monitor controls, and assist with audits.
Key Responsibilities
- Maintain security documentation.
- Monitor compliance.
- Assist with audits.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Security, or related field.
- 3–5 years of ISSO or similar experience.
- Familiarity with NIST RMF and FISMA.
How to Apply
Send your resume and cover letter to hr@company.com by May 30, 2025. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
❌ Why This ISSO Job Post Fails
- The Job Title Is Too Generic
Just “Information Systems Security Officer” with no context or purpose. It doesn’t attract attention or tell applicants why they should care. - Zero Personality or Mission
No mention of the company’s purpose, values, or why the role exists. ISSOs often choose roles based on mission alignment—this misses that opportunity. - No Salary or Benefits Listed
In a competitive cybersecurity market, hiding the pay range can make high-quality candidates skip the posting entirely. - Responsibilities Are Vague
“Maintain security documentation” is too broad and uninspiring. There’s no detail on systems, frameworks, or the scope of responsibility. - Hiring Process Feels Cold
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is dismissive and discouraging. This leaves applicants feeling undervalued before they even apply. - No Culture, No Perks
There’s no attempt to show what it’s like to work at the company—team environment, professional development, or even basic work-life balance mentions are absent. - Reads Like a Form, Not an Invitation
The entire post feels transactional, like it was copied from a compliance binder, not crafted to attract top talent.
- The Job Title Is Too Generic
Bonus Tips for Making an ISSO Job Post Stand Out
Even the best-written job post can get lost in a crowded cybersecurity hiring market if you don’t add extra trust-builders and differentiators. These tips work especially well for ISSO roles, where credibility, security, and culture matter as much as technical skills.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
This instantly builds trust and shows you take data protection seriously. Example:
IMPORTANT NOTICE – We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.
For a security role, this also reinforces your brand as a trustworthy employer.
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Cybersecurity roles can be intense—showing that you value downtime signals a healthy work culture. Example:
Enjoy 15 PTO days, 12 paid holidays, and 3 flex days per year so you can recharge and stay at your best.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
ISSO candidates often want certifications or career progression. Make it clear you’ll invest in them:
We offer an annual training budget for certifications like CISSP, CAP, or CISM, plus conference attendance opportunities.
4. Include a Video From the Hiring Manager or Team
Seeing the faces and hearing the voices of their future teammates builds a personal connection before the first interview. You can:
- Record a 1–2 minute Loom video introducing the role and team culture.
- Embed it right before the “Who We Are” section.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Show the Impact of the Role
In ISSO hiring, many candidates have seen job posts that feel disconnected from real-world outcomes. Show how their work ties to mission success:
“You’ll be the person who ensures our systems pass audits without issue, stay ahead of compliance requirements, and protect sensitive data that impacts millions of users.”
6. Make the Hiring Process Transparent & Respectful
Instead of a vague “We’ll contact shortlisted candidates,” outline the steps:
- Apply via WorkScreen.io
- Complete a skills-based assessment
- Meet with the hiring manager
- Final panel or technical review
- Decision + feedback for all candidates
This clarity reduces applicant anxiety and makes them more likely to finish the process.
Why You Shouldn’t Let AI Write Your ISSO Job Post for You
It’s tempting to type “Write an Information Systems Security Officer job description” into an AI tool and hit copy-paste.
The problem? You’ll get the same thing everyone else gets—generic, lifeless, and disconnected from what actually attracts the right ISSO candidates.
Why Blind AI Use Fails for ISSO Roles
- It produces compliance copy, not compelling copy – You’ll get dry bullet lists that might meet HR requirements but won’t inspire high-caliber cybersecurity talent to apply.
- It attracts the wrong crowd – Boring, vague posts tend to draw in applicants who are mass-applying to dozens of jobs rather than candidates invested in your mission.
- It weakens your employer brand – For a role where credibility, trust, and precision matter, publishing an obviously AI-generated post can make you look careless or lazy.
The Right Way to Use AI for an ISSO Job Post
AI can still help—if you give it the right raw material. Think of it like a sous-chef: you provide the fresh ingredients, it helps you arrange and polish them.
Here’s how:
- Start with your real company context – Your mission, what the ISSO will protect, your compliance landscape (e.g., NIST RMF, FISMA, FedRAMP).
- Define your ideal candidate – Skills, experience, certifications, but also personality traits and cultural fit.
- List your perks & process – Salary range, benefits, PTO, training budget, clear hiring steps.
- Give AI a model post – Show it one of your best job descriptions and ask it to structure the ISSO post similarly.
- Review & humanize – Add your voice, mission-specific details, and examples that make the role feel alive.
Example of a Strong AI Prompt for ISSO:
Help me write a job post for our company, Cyvera Solutions. We’re hiring an experienced Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) to ensure compliance with NIST RMF, FISMA, and FedRAMP. Our culture values trust, transparency, and professional growth. We offer $115,000–$135,000/year, 15 PTO days, training budgets, and hybrid work. We want to attract proactive candidates who can lead compliance efforts and improve security culture. Here are a few notes we’ve written to get you started: [paste notes here]. Please structure it in the same style as this example [insert link or text].
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste ISSO Job Description Templates?
We get it—sometimes you don’t have the luxury of crafting a job post from scratch.
Maybe you’ve already read this guide and understand what makes a strong ISSO posting, but you just need a starting point you can tweak in minutes.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First ISSO Job Description
📌 Job Title: Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) – Safeguard Our Systems & Shape Our Security Culture
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid (Insert Location)
💰 Salary: $XX – $XX/year + Benefits
🎥 A Quick Word From the Team
[Insert Loom/YouTube link here] — Meet our security and compliance team at Cyvera Solutions and hear why they love working here.
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we protect mission-critical systems for both government and commercial clients. Security isn’t just policy here—it’s part of our DNA.
We’re looking for an ISSO who thrives in both technical detail and big-picture thinking. You’ll help ensure our systems remain secure, compliant, and ahead of evolving threats, while also helping to shape a culture where security awareness is second nature.
What You’ll Do
- Maintain and update SSPs, POA&Ms, and other compliance documentation.
- Monitor controls to ensure continuous FISMA, NIST RMF, and FedRAMP compliance.
- Coordinate vulnerability scans, assess risks, and track remediation.
- Partner with teams across IT, development, and compliance to embed security in every phase.
- Lead or support security training initiatives.
What We’re Looking For
- X+ years of ISSO or equivalent security/compliance experience.
- Solid knowledge of NIST RMF, FISMA, FedRAMP.
- Familiarity with tools like Nessus, ACAS, or Splunk.
- Active security clearance preferred.
- Certifications like CISSP, CISM, or Security+ a plus.
Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Health, dental, and vision from day one.
- 15 PTO days + 12 holidays + flex days.
- Training budget for certifications and conferences.
- A respectful, transparent hiring process via WorkScreen.io.
📥 Apply Here: [Application Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
📌 Job Title: Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) – Compliance & Cybersecurity Oversight
💼 Type: Full-Time | Hybrid ([Location])
💰 Salary: $XX – $XX/year + Benefits
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | 9AM–5PM
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking an experienced Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) to lead and manage the security compliance posture of mission-critical systems for our government and commercial clients. This role is hands-on and high-impact, ensuring all systems meet and maintain compliance with NIST RMF, FISMA, and FedRAMP standards.
The ideal candidate is not only compliance-savvy but also a communicator—capable of bridging the gap between technical teams, leadership, and auditors. You’ll be responsible for keeping security documentation audit-ready, monitoring controls, and guiding teams to uphold our security culture.
Responsibilities
- Develop, maintain, and update System Security Plans (SSPs), Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms), Continuous Monitoring (ConMon) reports, and other compliance documentation.
- Oversee security control assessments and ensure mitigation of identified vulnerabilities.
- Manage continuous monitoring activities and review system security configurations regularly.
- Support and coordinate incident response activities, ensuring timely and documented remediation.
- Conduct risk assessments and deliver findings to stakeholders with actionable recommendations.
- Collaborate with system owners, developers, and IT teams to integrate security requirements into every stage of the system lifecycle.
- Serve as the primary liaison during audits, inspections, and security reviews.
- Provide security awareness training and promote best practices across the organization.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Information Security, Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field (or equivalent work experience).
- X years in an ISSO role or similar security/compliance position.
- Strong knowledge of NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF), FISMA, and FedRAMP.
- Experience with vulnerability scanning tools (e.g., Nessus, ACAS, OpenVAS) and SIEM platforms (e.g., Splunk).
- Familiarity with security documentation management tools (e.g., eMASS, Xacta).
- Ability to prepare and deliver briefings to leadership and audit teams.
- Active security clearance preferred (Secret or above).
- Certifications such as CISSP, CISM, Security+, or CAP are a plus.
Benefits
- Salary range: $XX – $XX/year (based on experience).
- Health, dental, and vision coverage starting day one.
- X PTO days, X paid holidays, and X flex days annually.
- Paid training budget for certifications and security conferences.
- Hybrid work environment with flexible scheduling.
- Career growth opportunities and internal promotion paths.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen.io so we can evaluate your skills and experience in a fair, practical way. You’ll complete a brief, role-specific assessment, and we’ll keep you updated throughout the process. [Application Link]
Why Use WorkScreen.io After Writing Your ISSO Job Post
Once you’ve crafted an ISSO job post that truly stands out, the next challenge begins—sorting through applicants and finding the ones who are both qualified and committed. That’s where WorkScreen.io makes all the difference.
WorkScreen.io helps you:
1. Quickly Identify Your Most Promising Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—so you can spot your top ISSO prospects at a glance.
2. Assess Skills with One-Click Role-Specific Tests
A resume might say “NIST RMF expert,” but can they prove it? With WorkScreen, you can administer targeted, real-world skill tests—like compliance scenario reviews or vulnerability assessment exercises—to ensure candidates have the technical depth you need.
3. Eliminate Low-Effort or AI-Generated Applications
WorkScreen’s built-in anti-spam and anti-AI detection ensures you’re not wasting time on candidates who copy-paste generic answers, use AI tools to fake expertise, or apply blindly to every posting. You only engage with genuine, committed applicants.
4. Save Hours While Hiring More Confidently
Instead of manually screening each ISSO application, you get a clear, data-backed shortlist—making it easier to move fast without compromising on quality.
💡 Bottom line:
You’ve put effort into attracting the right ISSO candidates—WorkScreen helps you secure the best one without drowning in admin work or risking a bad hire.
👉 Sign up for WorkScreen.io today,
post your ISSO job, and let the platform handle the heavy lifting from application to shortlist.
Information Systems Security Officer (ISSO) Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
The average salary for an ISSO in the United States ranges from $95,000 to $135,000 per year, depending on factors such as experience level, security clearance status, certifications, location, and the complexity of the systems they manage. Senior-level ISSOs with high-level clearances or specialized compliance expertise (e.g., FedRAMP High or DoD systems) can earn $140,000+ annually.
Certifications validate both technical knowledge and compliance expertise. Commonly sought-after credentials include:
- CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) – Industry gold standard for senior security professionals.
- CISM (Certified Information Security Manager) – Focuses on management and governance aspects of security.
- Security+ – A strong foundational certification for general security knowledge.
- CAP (Certified Authorization Professional) – Specialized for NIST RMF and compliance processes.
- CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) – Demonstrates penetration testing and vulnerability assessment skills.
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) – For advanced technical and enterprise security knowledge.
Not always—but for positions supporting government contracts, especially in defense, intelligence, or federal civilian agencies, an active security clearance (Secret, Top Secret, or higher) is often required. Commercial roles may not require clearance but still demand background checks.
- Use skills-based assessments to test knowledge of NIST RMF, incident response, and compliance documentation.
- Ask scenario-based interview questions (“How would you prepare for a FISMA audit with only two weeks’ notice?”).
- Check references for real-world examples of compliance leadership.
- Look for evidence of continuous learning (recent cert renewals, training, or conference attendance).
