Senior Security Analyst (Top Secret)

Job Description

Job Description

Here at Appian, our values of Intensity and Excellence define who we are. We set high standards and live up to them, ensuring that everything we do is done with care and quality. We approach every challenge with ambition and commitment, holding ourselves and each other accountable to achieve the best results. When you join Appian, you'll be part of a passionate team dedicated to accomplishing hard things, together.

Appian's Customer Success team partners with federal customers to advise and assist them in designing and securing Appian-based solutions. To support this mission, we are looking for a Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Security Analyst to assist federal customers in understanding and implementing cybersecurity strategies for their Appian deployments. This role will involve contributing to the security authorization process and gaining experience in guiding customers through the government's IT security authorization process.

The ideal candidate is passionate about cybersecurity and eager to learn how to architect secure solutions for federal customers. You will gain hands-on experience with cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure, and assist in designing end-to-end managed services provided by the government. A willingness to dive into the NIST Risk Management Framework (RMF) and Authority to Operate (ATO) processes is essential, as you will support the development of System Security Packages (SSPs) and learn how to navigate RMF procedures under the guidance and mentorship of a senior cyber advisor. This is a great opportunity for someone looking to start a career in cybersecurity, with training and mentorship provided to help you build the foundational knowledge and skills needed for long-term success.

This role is based at our HQ in McLean, VA. Appian was built on a culture of in-person collaboration, which we believe is a key driver of our mission to be the best. Employees hired for this position are expected to be in the office 4 - 5 days per week to foster that culture, ensure we thrive through shared ideas and teamwork, and maximize opportunities to connect with the exceptional people across Appian. While working in-person with customers is our main priority, we also believe the office environment enables more opportunities to celebrate wins, collaborate effectively, and build strong relationships across teams.

To be successful in this role, you need :

As an early career Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) Security Analyst at Appian, you will assist in implementing the Risk Management Framework (RMF) to secure Appian-based solutions for federal customers. Your responsibilities will include :

Learning and Applying RMF Processes : Gaining hands-on experience with the RMF steps, including system categorization, security control selection, implementation, assessment, authorization, and continuous monitoring.

Supporting ATO and FedRAMP Authorization : Assisting in the preparation of Authorization to Operate (ATO) packages and understanding the FedRAMP authorization process to ensure compliance with federal security standards (FedRAMP).

Collaborating with Senior Analysts : Working closely with experienced security analysts to design and implement security solutions that meet federal requirements.

Continuous Learning : Staying updated on the latest federal cybersecurity policies and best practices to effectively support the security authorization process.

Basic qualifications :

Bachelor's degree in any Engineering discipline, Computer Science, Mathematics, Information Technology, or similar work

An Active Government Clearance (Secret and above, without any limitations) is required for this opening

Ability and interest to maintain an Active Secret-level Government Clearance, with the ability and willingness to perform work within cleared facilities (SCIF work may be required)

You are an expert IT systems administrator building, maintaining, scripting, patching, & managing hosts, databases, and interconnected Cloud services with approximately 2+ years of experience

Tools and Resources

• Training and Development : During onboarding, we focus on equipping new hires with the skills and knowledge for success through department-specific training. Continuous learning is a central focus at Appian, with dedicated mentorship and the First-Friend program being widely utilized resources for new hires.
• Growth Opportunities : Appian provides a diverse array of growth and development opportunities, including our leadership program tailored for new and aspiring managers, a comprehensive library of specialized department training through Appian University, skills based training, and tuition reimbursement for those aiming to advance their education. This commitment ensures that employees have access to a holistic range of development opportunities.
• Community : We'll immerse you into our community rooted in respect starting on day one. Appian fosters inclusivity through our 8 employee-led affinity groups. These groups help employees build stronger internal and external networks by planning social, educational, and outreach activities to connect with Appianites and larger initiatives throughout the company.

About Appian

Appian is a software company that automates business processes. The Appian AI-Powered Process Platform includes everything you need to design, automate, and optimize even the most complex processes, from start to finish. The world's most innovative organizations trust Appian to improve their workflows, unify data, and optimize operations—resulting in better growth and superior customer experiences. For more information, visit appian.com. [Nasdaq : APPN]

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Appian is an equal opportunity employer that strives to attract and retain the best talent. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Appian provides reasonable accommodations to applicants in accordance with all applicable laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at ReasonableAccommodations@appian.com. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.

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