Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
POSITION SPECIFICS
The LionSHIELD Specialist serves as an advanced Governance, Risk, and Compliance (GRC) professional, playing a critical role in assessing, prioritizing, and managing information security and cybersecurity risk across the organization. This position combines strong technical expertise with regulatory knowledge to ensure compliance with government and industry standards.
As a subject matter expert in risk and compliance, the LionSHIELD Specialist evaluates organizational operations and procedures to ensure they meet applicable regulatory and policy requirements. The position researches relevant federal, state, sponsor, and industry regulations on behalf of the enterprise, translates requirements for stakeholders, and supports the development of secure, compliant research practices. This role is primarily focused on research-related initiatives at Penn State, including LionSHIELD projects, Data Use Agreement (DUA) reviews, and Institutional Review Board (IRB) reviews.
Success in this position requires strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of information security frameworks, and the ability to translate regulatory requirements into actionable controls that support secure and compliant research operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Support the LionSHIELD initiative at Penn State, including onboarding, offboarding, and ongoing compliance activities
Review Data Use Agreements (DUAs) to: classify data appropriately, identify specific security and regulatory requirements, and determine approved data storage locations and controls
Conduct IRB security reviews to define required safeguards and compliance obligations
Develop, update, and maintain policies, standards, processes, and guidelines related to research security and compliance
Monitor the evolving research regulatory landscape and communicate upcoming changes that may impact existing or future research activities
Serve as a subject matter expert on research-related cybersecurity risk and compliance matters
QUALIFICATIONS
Qualified candidates will demonstrate experience across several of the following areas:
Candidates must be US citizens to apply.
Experience supporting research environments, higher education institutions, or regulated industries is necessary.
Demonstrated experience reviewing and interpreting Data Use Agreements (DUAs), contracts, or regulatory requirements.
Experience conducting security reviews in support of Institutional Review Board (IRB) or research compliance processes.
Strong knowledge of information security frameworks and standards (e.g., NIST CSF, NIST 800-53, NIST 800-171, ISO 27001).
Familiarity with federal and regulatory requirements impacting research (e.g., CUI, HIPAA, FERPA, PCI).
Relevant professional certifications preferred (e.g., CISSP, CISM, CRISC, CISA, Security+, or similar).
MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS
Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None
LOCATION
This position offers significant remote work opportunities; however, periodic on-site work is required based on operational needs. Candidates should live in the local area or be willing to travel to campus as needed at their own expense. Questions related to flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.
BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.
SALARY & BENEFITS
The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $76,700.00 - $115,100.00.
Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure
Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.
CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS
Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.
EEO IS THE LAW
Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.
Penn State is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.