Manager, Security Operations & Facility Security Officer (FSO)

Vast is looking for a Manager, Security Operations & Facility Security Officer (FSO), to support our Senior Director of Security & Intelligence to support the development of the systems that will be required for the design and build of artificial-gravity human-rated space stations. The Manager, Security Operations & Facility Security Officer (FSO)  will be responsible for the day-to-day physical security operations across our multiple facilities in addition to being the Facility Security Officer (FSO).  You will play a pivotal role in building out and implementing our clearance processes, managing personnel security clearances, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, and contributing to secure operations. This role ensures we proactively protect, train, and provide safety to employees, visitors, assets, and critical infrastructure while aligning with both corporate objectives and federal security regulations.

This is an exempt position based out of our Long Beach, CA facility. 

Responsibilities: 

Physical Security Operations

• Oversee Vast’s security processes and operations across all locations, ensuring consistent implementation of security protocols and standards to reduce risk and respond to incidents.
• Manage site-specific security teams, including vendor relationships and guard services.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for security incidents, coordinating responses to minimize impact.
• Support crisis management and emergency preparedness planning to ensure readiness for incidents such as natural disasters and other emergencies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain physical security policies, procedures, and training programs in alignment with aerospace standards and regulatory requirements.
• Conduct regular audits to ensure compliance with corporate security policies and recommend improvements.
• Partner with our Security Technology team, IT, and cyber departments to ensure integration of physical security disciplines.
• Hire, train, and mentor security staff, promoting a culture of customer service, professionalism, courtesy, responsiveness, and trust.
• Conduct regular security risk assessments to identify potential vulnerabilities and implement mitigation strategies.
• Establish performance goals for security teams and continuously monitor progress.
• Ensure completion of all required training, emphasizing professional development and supporting processes.
• Conduct regular staff and team meetings to discuss goals, strategies, celebrate successes, and share best practices.
• Oversee daily Security Officer operational staffing requirements and administrative functions.

Facility Security Officer (FSO) Duties

• Act as the primary liaison from the Security team to assist with the clearance process, including compliance with regulations, security protocols required by customers or contracts, and stay aware of changing industrial security regulations.
• Ensure compliance with security requirements, including the completion, dissemination, and tracking of DD254s.
• Develop and work to implement the facility's security program in compliance with applicable government regulations.
• Manage and oversee the personnel security clearance process, including initiation, maintenance, and termination of clearances.
• Conduct security education, training, and awareness programs for eventual cleared employees.
• Conduct security self-inspections, apply risk mitigation methodologies, support customer assessments, and implement security measures to meet requirements.
• Prepare for and participate in security inspections, audits, and assessments conducted by government agencies.
• Maintain accurate records of security-related activities, including visit authorizations, incident reports, and security violations.
• Provide briefings and debriefings to employees holding clearances, and regular re-briefing of employees on foreign travel.
• Report security incidents, violations, and adverse information to appropriate authorities in a timely manner.
• Ensure proper marking, handling, storage, and destruction of eventual classified and sensitive materials.
• Develop and implement procedures for handling foreign travel and contacts by cleared employees.
• Stay current with changes to security regulations and implement necessary adjustments to the facility's security program.

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Five (5) plus years of experience managing security teams, with at least three (3) years as a Facility Security Officer (FSO) or Contractor Special Security Officer (CSSO) supporting Department of Defense or Intelligence Community programs.
• Active Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
• Experience as a certified FSO.
• Experience leading an organization through the Facility Security Clearance (FCL) process.

Preferred Skills & Experience: 

• Prior experience with managing security teams in a controlled environment, including aerospace or high-risk industries.
• Advanced certifications such as the CPP, PSP, or similar.
• Familiarity with emergency management frameworks such as ICS and FEMA.
• Experience working in cross-functional environments and working with law enforcement of a local or federal scale.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment with strong attention to detail.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, along with effective teamwork abilities.

Additional Requirements: 

• Willingness to work outside of normal business hours, or weekends to support critical mission milestones or perform work when others aren’t on property.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs unassisted.
• Positive, solution-focused attitude.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to act with integrity, professionalism, and confidentiality.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office Suite or related software.
• Knowledge and experience going through DCSA audits.
• Strong knowledge of physical security systems, access control, CCTV, and incident response.
• Proven track record managing vendor relationships and overseeing contract security personnel.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to travel between our multiple Southern California locations, Washington D.C office, and potentially to our overseas office locations.
• Valid California driver's license.

Pay Range: 

• Security Operations Manager: $96,500 - $160,000