About the role

We are seeking a highly skilled Information Security Specialist to safeguard classified and sensitive defence-related information in compliance with national and international security regulations.

This role is critical in ensuring adherence to Minimum Information Security Standards (MISS), Defence policies, and legislative requirements, while supporting secure operations across physical, personnel, and information security domains.

The successful candidate will act as the primary security point of contact for internal projects, customers, and subcontractors handling classified data, and will play a key role in maintaining high-assurance security environments.

Qualifications and experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Security, Information Security Systems, Cybersecurity, or a related field.
• Preferred certifications:
• CISSP
• CISM
• CompTIA Security+
• CEH
• ISO 27001 Lead Implementer/Auditor
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in cybersecurity/security roles.
• Experience within defence, aerospace, national security, or state-owned enterprises is highly advantageous.
• Strong knowledge of South African and international security frameworks.
• Proven experience handling classified information in high-security environments.
• Knowledge of export control regulations (e.g. ITAR) is advantageous.

Key technical skills

• Advanced knowledge of MISS, Department of Defence (DoD) policies, and government security frameworks.
• Strong expertise in security architecture, system hardening, and encryption standards.
• Experience with security risk assessments and threat modelling.
• Proficiency in incident response, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) tools, and threat intelligence analysis.
• Understanding of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) security accreditation processes.
• Knowledge of network security controls and secure system design.

Key responsibilities

1. Government security compliance

• Ensure strict compliance with MISS, DoD directives, and national security regulations.
• Align security practices with legislative requirements (e.g. POPIA, PFMA).
• Support audits, inspections, and regulatory assessments.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of evolving government security standards.

2. Security engineering and architecture

• Design and implement secure system architectures for defence environments.
• Apply baseline configurations, hardening standards, and encryption controls.
• Support secure network infrastructure across multiple sites.
• Collaborate with ICT teams to ensure secure system deployment and maintenance.

3. Classified information management

• Manage the full lifecycle of classified data (creation, storage, transmission, destruction).
• Enforce strict controls for secure storage facilities and access-controlled environments.
• Ensure compliance with personnel vetting and clearance protocols.
• Monitor adherence to classified handling procedures across all stakeholders.

4. Cyber Risk Management

• Conduct risk assessments aligned with ISO standards.
• Identify vulnerabilities and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Monitor emerging cyber threats impacting defence supply chains.
• Maintain and enhance organisational security governance frameworks.

5. Incident response and threat analysis

• Lead and coordinate security incident response activities.
• Investigate incidents using SIEM tools and forensic techniques
• Analyse threat intelligence and recommend proactive security measures
• Report on incidents and implement continuous improvement strategies

Our recruitment values:

HENSOLDT South Africa focuses on diversity, equity, and inclusion in our organizational strategy. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive corporate culture that benefits our employees and delivers better outcomes for our clients. In line with our commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, we welcome applications from all ethnic groups. In line with HENSOLDT's commitment to equal employment opportunities and our focus on diversity in the operational environment, preference will be given to suitable candidates from designated groups.

Application Deadline: 08 April 2026. 

How to Apply:

Please submit your CV by applying directly on the HENSOLDT Careers page.