System Engineer 2 (ISSO) Job at Geon Technologies: Fort Meade, MD Opportunity with $250K Salary

Are you a cybersecurity professional seeking a high-impact role in information systems security? The System Engineer 2 (ISSO) position at Geon Technologies in Fort Meade, MD, offers a competitive salary of $250,000 annually. This job posting, active as of October 18, 2025, targets experienced engineers for defense-related projects. In this comprehensive guide, learn about the role, company, location, and steps to land similar ISSO jobs in Maryland.

Introduction

The System Engineer 2 (ISSO) role represents a mid-to-senior level position in cybersecurity, focusing on Information System Security Officer (ISSO) duties. Hosted by Geon Technologies, a defense contractor specializing in mission-critical technologies, this opportunity is based in Fort Meade, Maryland—a epicenter for U.S. Cyber Command and National Security Agency (NSA) operations. With an expected salary range of $250,000 USD per year, it attracts top talent in cybersecurity engineering and DoD contracting.

This guide breaks down the job essentials, drawing from standard industry practices for ISSO roles under frameworks like NIST RMF and DoD 8570. Whether you’re job hunting or advancing your career, understanding this posting provides actionable insights into Fort Meade cybersecurity jobs.

Analysis

Geon Technologies, headquartered in Maryland, delivers engineering solutions for intelligence and defense sectors. Their focus on software-defined systems and cybersecurity aligns perfectly with ISSO responsibilities, which involve safeguarding classified information systems.

Job Posting Breakdown

The posting highlights compliance with federal, state, and local equal employment opportunity (EEO) rules, covering all aspects of employment from recruiting to hiring. This underscores Geon’s commitment to diversity, a standard for government contractors. Location-specific factors in Fort Meade include proximity to DISA and USCYBERCOM, demanding active security clearances like Top Secret/SCI.

Role Expectations

A System Engineer 2 (ISSO) typically implements security controls, conducts risk assessments, and maintains Authorization to Operate (ATO) for systems. Verifiable skills include RMF processes, vulnerability scanning with tools like ACAS/Nessus, and auditing per DISA STIGs. Salary at $250,000 reflects seniority, clearance level, and regional cost-of-living adjustments in the DC metro area.

Summary

In summary, the System Engineer 2 (ISSO) at Geon Technologies is a premium cybersecurity engineering job in Fort Meade, MD, offering $250,000 annually. It requires expertise in information assurance, DoD compliance, and systems engineering. Ideal for certified professionals (e.g., CISSP, CISM), this role supports national security missions while providing financial rewards and career stability in a high-demand field.

Key Points

Practical Advice

To apply for this or similar System Engineer ISSO jobs, follow these steps tailored for success in competitive DoD markets.

Resume Optimization

Tailor your resume with keywords like “ISSO,” “RMF,” “NIST 800-53,” and “DODIN.” Quantify achievements: “Managed ATO for 50+ systems, reducing vulnerabilities by 40%.” Highlight clearances (TS/SCI with poly preferred) and certifications: CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CASP+ per DoD 8140/8570.

Application Process

Visit Geon Technologies’ careers page or platforms like ClearanceJobs.com. Submit a SF-86-ready profile. Prepare for technical interviews covering STIG implementation and SCAP compliance.

Career Preparation Tips

Enroll in RMF training via CDSE (Center for Development of Security Excellence). Network at AFCEA events in the DC area. For salary negotiation, reference Glassdoor data showing ISSO medians at $150K-$200K, justifying $250K with your experience.

Points of Caution

While lucrative, ISSO roles in Fort Meade come with challenges:

• Clearance Dependency: Jobs require polygraph-level SCI; delays can span 12-18 months.
• High Stress: 24/7 on-call for incidents in classified environments.
• Lifestyle Trade-offs: Fort Meade’s security gates mean long commutes; traffic in MD is notorious.
• Contract Nature: Defense jobs fluctuate with federal budgets—monitor FAR regulations.
• Salary Taxes: MD state taxes (up to 5.75%) plus federal reduce take-home pay.

Comparison

Compare this Geon Technologies role to peers for context in the cybersecurity jobs Fort Meade landscape.

Vs. Other Companies

Salary and Growth Comparison

BLS data (2023) shows information security analysts averaging $120K nationally, but cleared ISSO roles in MD exceed $200K due to demand. Geon’s $250K edges out competitors, per ClearanceJobs salary tools, offering faster equity or bonuses in some cases.

Legal Implications

As a federal contractor, Geon Technologies must comply with EEO laws under Title VII, ADA, and Executive Order 11246. The posting explicitly states coverage for all employment phases, prohibiting discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status. Applicants should report violations to OFCCP. Additionally, handling classified data invokes ITAR and EAR export controls, with penalties for non-compliance up to $1M fines or imprisonment.

Conclusion

The System Engineer 2 (ISSO) position at Geon Technologies exemplifies elite opportunities in DoD cybersecurity careers. With a $250,000 salary in Fort Meade, MD, it rewards expertise in systems security amid rising cyber threats. By gaining certifications, optimizing applications, and navigating clearance hurdles, professionals can secure such roles. Stay informed on defense job boards for ongoing postings—your next career milestone awaits in Maryland’s cyber hub.

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