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Senior systems security engineer skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

7 min read

Quoted experts

David Garaventa,

David Garaventa

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical senior systems security engineer skills. We ranked the top skills for senior systems security engineers based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 7.8% of senior systems security engineer resumes contained dod as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a senior systems security engineer needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 senior systems security engineer skills for your resume and career

1. DOD

Definition of Done (DoD) is a set of deliverables that are needed to devise software. These deliverables are valuable to the system and can be exemplified by writing code, coding comments, unit testing, integration testing, design documents, release notes, and so on.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use dod:

Reviewed, analyzed and accredited DoD agency programs, systems and networks to ensure consistent and accurate reporting to accreditation authorities.
Tested target systems against their claims of assurance evaluating capabilities for potential vulnerabilities on a DoD contract.

2. Security Engineering

Security engineering is the prevention of misuse and malicious behavior in an application or organization. Security engineering skills include designing, maintaining, updating systems security controls and countermeasures. Monitoring systems for security incidents, including preventing unauthorized access, policy breaches, and third-party unauthorized access into systems, is part of this skill set.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use security engineering:

Participate in test and engineering support initiatives evaluating security engineering actions.
Develop standard operating procedures for Information Assurance Security Engineering Team.

3. RMF

RMF (the Risk Management Framework) refers to a set of criteria used by the federal government and its contractors to improve information security. To be proficient in RMF, in-depth technical experience with core technologies like Digital, Cloud, Data Protection, etc., along with knowledge of FISMA and FedRAMP regulatory compliance requirements.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use rmf:

Prepare security assessment package recommending system for or against authorization to operate using DIACAP and RMF process
Write program-specific documentation using RMF processes and procedures.

4. NIST

Here's how senior systems security engineers use nist:

Gathered internal and external documentation as required by NIST for federal government enterprise security architecture.
Evaluated discovered security findings and provided guidance for bringing information technology systems to NIST security compliance.

5. Windows

Windows is a chain of operating systems that controls a computer and is developed by Microsoft. Every version of Windows consists of GUI (graphical user interface), with a desktop that allows the user to open their files.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use windows:

Performed in-depth technical analysis and reviewed information systems compliance on Linux and Windows operating systems.
Contributed to the development of a unified FAN Windows 7 image and consolidated application package

6. Linux

Linux is a Unix-like operating system. Just like Windows, Mac OS, and IOS, Linux is an operating system used by millions across the globe. Android itself is powered by the Linux operating system. Linux manages all the hardware resources that are associated with your computer. The software is famous because of the protection it grants from viruses, malware, and crashes. The Linux operating system is entirely free and is an open-source software meaning it can be altered by those equipped with the knowledge to code.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use linux:

Utilized existing IP filtering code in the Linux kernel and built a firewall with tracking and strike back capabilities.
Created custom network attached storage (NAS) systems using Linux network block devices (NBD).

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7. Cryptography

Here's how senior systems security engineers use cryptography:

Provided technical leadership, task management, and engineering support to customers in the development of cryptography and key management solutions.
Experience with TCG Software Stack (TSS) and Public Key Cryptography Standards (PKCS) libraries.

8. Network Security

Here's how senior systems security engineers use network security:

Provided data security for server farm clients and provided network security analysis for clients on web server configurations.
Provided tactical and strategic planning for the ongoing management of network security platforms.

9. ACAS

Here's how senior systems security engineers use acas:

Design, implement, and maintain the secured ACAS capability baseline.
Identify security impacts to the ACAS capability.

10. National Security

Here's how senior systems security engineers use national security:

Identified military/civilian unit requirement per Command Level, National Security Force (Special Operations) and Cabinet Level Government structures.
Completed a successful environmental test demonstrating potential improvements for DHS national security efforts.

11. Servers

Servers are computers or systems that provide services to other computers known as clients connected to them via a network. The services can range from data, resources, programs, or any other service that has to do with computing and computers.

It may also refer to someone at a restaurants that delivers the food to patrons from the kitchen.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use servers:

Analyzed, reported, and corrected Unix security vulnerabilities on transitioned servers from acquired insurance companies.
Developed and deployed Information Assurance Vulnerability Management Update Servers.

12. IDS

An IDS (intrusion detection system) stands for a software application or device that monitors a network to identify policy violations or malicious activities.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use ids:

Skilled in identifying, configuring and deploying Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS).
Implemented and deployed GFI LANguard IDS.

13. Java

Java is a widely-known programming language that was invented in 1995 and is owned by Oracle. It is a server-side language that was created to let app developers "write once, run anywhere". It is easy and simple to learn and use and is powerful, fast, and secure. This object-oriented programming language lets the code be reused that automatically lowers the development cost. Java is specially used for android apps, web and application servers, games, database connections, etc. This programming language is closely related to C++ making it easier for the users to switch between the two.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use java:

Created scan engine enhancements via Java for protocol clients, application programming interface, and vulnerability library.
Provided professional support and ensured excellent maintenance of the Java web application.

14. VMware

Here's how senior systems security engineers use vmware:

Implement and administer VMware ESXi 5.5 environment on the network to consolidate hardware and upgrade server performance.
Deploy and manage VMware Mirage environment .

15. Technical Support

Technical support or tech support are the services provided by any hardware or software company to users. They help in solving the technical difficulties the customers face with their products or services. Moreover, the tech support employees maintain, manage, and repair the IT faults. They are also responsible for resolving the network problems, installing and configuring hardware and software.

Here's how senior systems security engineers use technical support:

Perform second level on call security support and provide complex technical support and guidance to the enterprise infrastructure.
Provided technical support for customer's test preparation and on-site support test events as required.

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What skills help Senior Systems Security Engineers find jobs?

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What skills stand out on senior systems security engineer resumes?

David Garaventa

Director, Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Programs, Assistant Professor, CIS, Albertus Magnus College

The skills/attributes required across a variety of jobs in the IT fields.

What soft skills should all senior systems security engineers possess?

David Garaventa

Director, Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Programs, Assistant Professor, CIS, Albertus Magnus College

Communication and collaboration skills are critical. Particularly now that many employees are working remotely, it has become more difficult - yet more important than ever - to have IT teams that work effectively together, even when they are not in the same room together. But this is not unique to the IT realm. Whether via remote meetings or through effective written communications, it is no longer enough to simply have "technical skills." Technical skills can be taught to employees more easily than developing employee's soft skills, so when an employee approaches their job with a strong set of communication skills and strong analytic reading and writing abilities, they can often make themselves stand out to employers. The employers will recognize that they have the attributes to be an asset to the team and can then invest in helping them develop any technical areas where they may be lacking.

This is not to say that technical skills don't matter, because they do, especially in the IT field. But suppose an employee brings a strong set of soft skills to an IT team (e.g., collaboration, communication, critical thinking, etc.). In that case, they probably also can learn more technical skills as part of their job function. I once had a colleague say to me that when she is hiring, she has found that technical skill is all over the place...but it's the soft skills that are harder to find. Lastly, having the ability - and a desire - to be continually learning is essential. Technology is not static, and businesses are not static, so thinking critically in different settings across various technology platforms is very important. The tools your department uses today may not be the tools they are using tomorrow, so being fluid, adaptable, and constantly learning is the name of the game.

What hard/technical skills are most important for senior systems security engineers?

David Garaventa

Director, Computer Information Systems and Cybersecurity Programs, Assistant Professor, CIS, Albertus Magnus College

The technical skills that are required are broad and tend to be business and/or industry-specific. If you are working in healthcare IT, the patient management platforms you use could be different from the client database used by a bank's IT team, for example. So, on the one hand, the recommendation would be to determine what platforms are most commonly used in your industry area and spend time mastering those platforms. On the other hand, most industries tend to have specific tools that are most commonly used, and spending time mastering those is important.

Going deeper into the subject, technical skills around project management, cloud infrastructure, security, and end-user support bridge across all industries. Having knowledge and skills in these areas will serve IT professionals well, no matter what field or industry they end up in. Again, it is challenging to recommend specific technical skills because the field of IT is so broad.

What senior systems security engineer skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Professor David Sanford

Associate Professor an Department Chair (MIS, CS, CYB MGT, IS CYB), Northwood University

Here's some of what they may do on a typical day: Develop and install computer systems and programs to ensure they meet company needs. They all ensure that computers can talk to each other and the internet without interference. Some may set up Virtual walls and put locks in place to keep the bad guys out and ensure the company's information is secure. From a technical aspect, if something goes wrong, they jump in and fix it ASAP to get everything running smoothly. They are the go-to people when others in the company have computer problems. They are supported and taught how to use new technology. From a data perspective. some handle important information and make sure it is organized and accessible when needed. Many manage large tech projects and ensure efficiency within an organization through the integration or creation of new technology. Some perform managerial duties such as developing and maintaining guidelines and manuals so that everyone can learn how to use the system(s). In this field, employees are constantly learning about new tech and products to stay on top of their game. They analyze this new technology to determine if it could be used within their organization to increase efficiency or improve a business process. In all. for someone just starting out in this field, they can spend their days teaching, running small projects and helping the team. As they gain more experience, they will face bigger challenges and learn new things.

Do you want to know more?

List of senior systems security engineer skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a senior systems security engineer resume and required skills for a senior systems security engineer to have include:

DOD
Security Engineering
RMF
NIST
Windows
Linux
Cryptography
Network Security
ACAS
National Security
Servers
IDS
Java
VMware
Technical Support
System Design

Management System
IAM
Risk Assessments
Security Policies
Commercial Off-The-Shelf
Intrusion Detection
STIG
Technical Solutions
Vulnerability Assessments
NSA
OS
IP
SQL
Encryption
Incident Response
Security Systems

SAN
Security Architecture
Cots
Disaster Recovery
ATO
PKI
Key Management
Configuration Management
Virtualization
Earned Value Management
HBSS
Unix
Security Assessments
Perl
Nessus

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

Updated January 8, 2025

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