SP-RSK-002 Security Control Assessor
Conceptualizes, designs, procures, and/or builds secure information technology (IT) systems, with responsibility for aspects of system and/or network development.
Oversees, evaluates, and supports the documentation, validation, assessment, and authorization processes necessary to assure that existing and new information technology (IT) systems meet the organization's cybersecurity and risk requirements. Ensures appropriate treatment of risk, compliance, and assurance from internal and external perspectives.
Conducts independent comprehensive assessments of the management, operational, and technical security controls and control enhancements employed within or inherited by an information technology (IT) system to determine the overall effectiveness of the controls (as defined in NIST SP 800-37).
Knowledges 53
| Code | Description | Work Roles |
|---|---|---|
| K0001 | Knowledge of computer networking concepts and protocols, and network security methodologies. | 52 |
| K0002 | Knowledge of risk management processes (e.g., methods for assessing and mitigating risk). | 52 |
| K0003 | Knowledge of laws, regulations, policies, and ethics as they relate to cybersecurity and privacy. | 52 |
| K0004 | Knowledge of cybersecurity and privacy principles. | 52 |
| K0005 | Knowledge of cyber threats and vulnerabilities. | 52 |
| K0006 | Knowledge of specific operational impacts of cybersecurity lapses. | 52 |
| K0007 | Knowledge of authentication, authorization, and access control methods. | 4 |
| K0008 | Knowledge of applicable business processes and operations of customer organizations. | 5 |
| K0009 | Knowledge of application vulnerabilities. | 6 |
| K0010 | Knowledge of communication methods, principles, and concepts that support the network infrastructure. | 3 |
| K0011 | Knowledge of capabilities and applications of network equipment including routers, switches, bridges, servers, transmission media, and related hardware. | 3 |
| K0013 | Knowledge of cyber defense and vulnerability assessment tools and their capabilities. | 5 |
| K0018 | Knowledge of encryption algorithms | 11 |
| K0019 | Knowledge of cryptography and cryptographic key management concepts | 8 |
| K0018 | Knowledge of encryption algorithms | 11 |
| K0021 | Knowledge of data backup and recovery. | 9 |
| K0024 | Knowledge of database systems. | 7 |
| K0026 | Knowledge of business continuity and disaster recovery continuity of operations plans. | 5 |
| K0027 | Knowledge of organization's enterprise information security architecture. | 9 |
| K0028 | Knowledge of organization's evaluation and validation requirements. | 8 |
| K0029 | Knowledge of organization's Local and Wide Area Network connections. | 2 |
| K0037 | Knowledge of Security Assessment and Authorization process. | 5 |
| K0038 | Knowledge of cybersecurity and privacy principles used to manage risks related to the use, processing, storage, and transmission of information or data. | 6 |
| K0040 | Knowledge of vulnerability information dissemination sources (e.g., alerts, advisories, errata, and bulletins). | 5 |
| K0044 | Knowledge of cybersecurity and privacy principles and organizational requirements (relevant to confidentiality, integrity, availability, authentication, non-repudiation). | 14 |
| K0048 | Knowledge of Risk Management Framework (RMF) requirements. | 8 |
| K0049 | Knowledge of information technology (IT) security principles and methods (e.g., firewalls, demilitarized zones, encryption). | 8 |
| K0054 | Knowledge of current industry methods for evaluating, implementing, and disseminating information technology (IT) security assessment, monitoring, detection, and remediation tools and procedures utilizing standards-based concepts and capabilities. | 3 |
| K0056 | Knowledge of network access, identity, and access management (e.g., public key infrastructure, Oauth, OpenID, SAML, SPML). | 11 |
| K0059 | Knowledge of new and emerging information technology (IT) and cybersecurity technologies. | 12 |
| K0070 | Knowledge of system and application security threats and vulnerabilities (e.g., buffer overflow, mobile code, cross-site scripting, Procedural Language/Structured Query Language [PL/SQL] and injections, race conditions, covert channel, replay, return-oriented attacks, malicious code). | 13 |
| K0084 | Knowledge of structured analysis principles and methods. | 6 |
| K0089 | Knowledge of systems diagnostic tools and fault identification techniques. | 3 |
| K0098 | Knowledge of the cyber defense Service Provider reporting structure and processes within one’s own organization. | 2 |
| K0100 | Knowledge of the enterprise information technology (IT) architecture. | 2 |
| K0101 | Knowledge of the organization’s enterprise information technology (IT) goals and objectives. | 8 |
| K0126 | Knowledge of Supply Chain Risk Management Practices (NIST SP 800-161) | 14 |
| K0146 | Knowledge of the organization's core business/mission processes. | 10 |
| K0168 | Knowledge of applicable laws, statutes (e.g., in Titles 10, 18, 32, 50 in U.S. Code), Presidential Directives, executive branch guidelines, and/or administrative/criminal legal guidelines and procedures. | 11 |
| K0169 | Knowledge of information technology (IT) supply chain security and supply chain risk management policies, requirements, and procedures. | 14 |
| K0170 | Knowledge of critical infrastructure systems with information communication technology that were designed without system security considerations. | 12 |
| K0179 | Knowledge of network security architecture concepts including topology, protocols, components, and principles (e.g., application of defense-in-depth). | 19 |
| K0199 | Knowledge of security architecture concepts and enterprise architecture reference models (e.g., Zachman, Federal Enterprise Architecture [FEA]). | 6 |
| K0203 | Knowledge of security models (e.g., Bell-LaPadula model, Biba integrity model, Clark-Wilson integrity model). | 10 |
| K0260 | Knowledge of Personally Identifiable Information (PII) data security standards. | 16 |
| K0261 | Knowledge of Payment Card Industry (PCI) data security standards. | 17 |
| K0262 | Knowledge of Personal Health Information (PHI) data security standards. | 17 |
| K0267 | Knowledge of laws, policies, procedures, or governance relevant to cybersecurity for critical infrastructures. | 8 |
| K0287 | Knowledge of an organization's information classification program and procedures for information compromise. | 18 |
| K0322 | Knowledge of embedded systems. | 10 |
| K0342 | Knowledge of penetration testing principles, tools, and techniques. | 8 |
| K0622 | Knowledge of controls related to the use, processing, storage, and transmission of data. | 6 |
| K0624 | Knowledge of Application Security Risks (e.g. Open Web Application Security Project Top 10 list) | 13 |
Skills 68
| Code | Description | Work Roles |
|---|---|---|
| S0001 | Skill in conducting vulnerability scans and recognizing vulnerabilities in security systems. | 6 |
| S0006 | Skill in applying confidentiality, integrity, and availability principles. | 3 |
| S0027 | Skill in determining how a security system should work (including its resilience and dependability capabilities) and how changes in conditions, operations, or the environment will affect these outcomes. | 7 |
| S0034 | Skill in discerning the protection needs (i.e., security controls) of information systems and networks. | 6 |
| S0038 | Skill in identifying measures or indicators of system performance and the actions needed to improve or correct performance, relative to the goals of the system. | 5 |
| S0073 | Skill in using virtual machines. (e.g., Microsoft Hyper-V, VMWare vSphere, Citrix XenDesktop/Server, Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud, etc.). | 5 |
| S0078 | Skill in recognizing and categorizing types of vulnerabilities and associated attacks. | 3 |
| S0097 | Skill in applying security controls. | 3 |
| S0100 | Skill in utilizing or developing learning activities (e.g., scenarios, instructional games, interactive exercises). | 2 |
| S0110 | Skill in identifying Test & Evaluation infrastructure (people, ranges, tools, instrumentation) requirements. | 2 |
| S0111 | Skill in interfacing with customers. | 2 |
| S0112 | Skill in managing test assets, test resources, and test personnel to ensure effective completion of test events. | 2 |
| S0115 | Skill in preparing Test & Evaluation reports. | 2 |
| S0120 | Skill in reviewing logs to identify evidence of past intrusions. | 2 |
| S0124 | Skill in troubleshooting and diagnosing cyber defense infrastructure anomalies and work through resolution. | 2 |
| S0128 | Skill in using manpower and personnel IT systems. | 2 |
| S0134 | Skill in conducting reviews of systems. | 2 |
| S0135 | Skill in secure test plan design (e. g. unit, integration, system, acceptance). | 3 |
| S0136 | Skill in network systems management principles, models, methods (e.g., end-to-end systems performance monitoring), and tools. | 2 |
| S0137 | Skill in conducting application vulnerability assessments. | 2 |
| S0138 | Skill in using Public-Key Infrastructure (PKI) encryption and digital signature capabilities into applications (e.g., S/MIME email, SSL traffic). | 5 |
| S0141 | Skill in assessing security systems designs. | 2 |
| S0145 | Skill in integrating and applying policies that meet system security objectives. | 3 |
| S0147 | Skill in assessing security controls based on cybersecurity principles and tenets. (e.g., CIS CSC, NIST SP 800-53, Cybersecurity Framework, etc.). | 3 |
| S0171 | Skill in performing impact/risk assessments. | 2 |
| S0172 | Skill in applying secure coding techniques. | 2 |
| S0173 | Skill in using security event correlation tools. | 2 |
| S0174 | Skill in using code analysis tools. | 3 |
| S0175 | Skill in performing root cause analysis. | 3 |
| S0176 | Skill in administrative planning activities, to include preparation of functional and specific support plans, preparing and managing correspondence, and staffing procedures. | 4 |
| S0177 | Skill in analyzing a target's communication networks. | 2 |
| S0184 | Skill in analyzing traffic to identify network devices. | 4 |
| S0232 | Skill in identifying intelligence gaps and limitations. | 2 |
| S0233 | Skill in identifying language issues that may have an impact on organization objectives. | 2 |
| S0234 | Skill in identifying leads for target development. | 2 |
| S0235 | Skill in identifying non-target regional languages and dialects | 2 |
| S0236 | Skill in identifying the devices that work at each level of protocol models. | 3 |
| S0237 | Skill in identifying, locating, and tracking targets via geospatial analysis techniques | 2 |
| S0238 | Skill in information prioritization as it relates to operations. | 2 |
| S0239 | Skill in interpreting compiled and interpretive programming languages. | 2 |
| S0240 | Skill in interpreting metadata and content as applied by collection systems. | 2 |
| S0241 | Skill in interpreting traceroute results, as they apply to network analysis and reconstruction. | 2 |
| S0242 | Skill in interpreting vulnerability scanner results to identify vulnerabilities. | 2 |
| S0243 | Skill in knowledge management, including technical documentation techniques (e.g., Wiki page). | 2 |
| S0244 | Skill in managing client relationships, including determining client needs/requirements, managing client expectations, and demonstrating commitment to delivering quality results. | 3 |
| S0248 | Skill in performing target system analysis. | 3 |
| S0249 | Skill in preparing and presenting briefings. | 8 |
| S0250 | Skill in preparing plans and related correspondence. | 5 |
| S0251 | Skill in prioritizing target language material. | 2 |
| S0252 | Skill in processing collected data for follow-on analysis. | 2 |
| S0254 | Skill in providing analysis to aid writing phased after action reports. | 3 |
| S0271 | Skill in reviewing and editing assessment products. | 3 |
| S0273 | Skill in reviewing and editing plans. | 3 |
| S0278 | Skill in tailoring analysis to the necessary levels (e.g., classification and organizational). | 6 |
| S0279 | Skill in target development in direct support of collection operations. | 2 |
| S0280 | Skill in target network anomaly identification (e.g., intrusions, dataflow or processing, target implementation of new technologies). | 2 |
| S0281 | Skill in technical writing. | 3 |
| S0296 | Skill in utilizing feedback to improve processes, products, and services. | 9 |
| S0304 | Skill to access information on current assets available, usage. | 3 |
| S0305 | Skill to access the databases where plans/directives/guidance are maintained. | 3 |
| S0306 | Skill to analyze strategic guidance for issues requiring clarification and/or additional guidance. | 2 |
| S0307 | Skill to analyze target or threat sources of strength and morale. | 2 |
| S0325 | Skill to develop a collection plan that clearly shows the discipline that can be used to collect the information needed. | 2 |
| S0329 | Skill to evaluate requests for information to determine if response information exists. | 2 |
| S0332 | Skill to extract information from available tools and applications associated with collection requirements and collection operations management. | 2 |
| S0367 | Skill to apply cybersecurity and privacy principles to organizational requirements (relevant to confidentiality, integrity, availability, authentication, non-repudiation). | 14 |
| S0370 | Skill to use cyber defense Service Provider reporting structure and processes within one’s own organization. | 2 |
| S0374 | Skill to identify cybersecurity and privacy issues that stem from connections with internal and external customers and partner organizations. | 3 |
Abilities 49
| Code | Description | Work Roles |
|---|---|---|
| A0001 | Ability to identify systemic security issues based on the analysis of vulnerability and configuration data. | 4 |
| A0011 | Ability to answer questions in a clear and concise manner. | 2 |
| A0012 | Ability to ask clarifying questions. | 3 |
| A0013 | Ability to communicate complex information, concepts, or ideas in a confident and well-organized manner through verbal, written, and/or visual means. | 14 |
| A0014 | Ability to communicate effectively when writing. | 3 |
| A0015 | Ability to conduct vulnerability scans and recognize vulnerabilities in security systems. | 8 |
| A0016 | Ability to facilitate small group discussions. | 2 |
| A0018 | Ability to prepare and present briefings. | 4 |
| A0019 | Ability to produce technical documentation. | 5 |
| A0023 | Ability to design valid and reliable assessments. | 3 |
| A0026 | Ability to analyze test data. | 3 |
| A0030 | Ability to collect, verify, and validate test data. | 2 |
| A0035 | Ability to dissect a problem and examine the interrelationships between data that may appear unrelated. | 2 |
| A0036 | Ability to identify basic common coding flaws at a high level. | 2 |
| A0040 | Ability to translate data and test results into evaluative conclusions. | 3 |
| A0056 | Ability to ensure security practices are followed throughout the acquisition process. | 6 |
| A0069 | Ability to apply collaborative skills and strategies. | 3 |
| A0070 | Ability to apply critical reading/thinking skills. | 9 |
| A0082 | Ability to effectively collaborate via virtual teams. | 7 |
| A0083 | Ability to evaluate information for reliability, validity, and relevance. | 6 |
| A0084 | Ability to evaluate, analyze, and synthesize large quantities of data (which may be fragmented and contradictory) into high quality, fused targeting/intelligence products. | 7 |
| A0085 | Ability to exercise judgment when policies are not well-defined. | 9 |
| A0086 | Ability to expand network access by conducting target analysis and collection to identify targets of interest. | 2 |
| A0087 | Ability to focus research efforts to meet the customer’s decision-making needs. | 6 |
| A0088 | Ability to function effectively in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. | 7 |
| A0089 | Ability to function in a collaborative environment, seeking continuous consultation with other analysts and experts—both internal and external to the organization—to leverage analytical and technical expertise. | 13 |
| A0090 | Ability to identify external partners with common cyber operations interests. | 5 |
| A0091 | Ability to identify intelligence gaps. | 6 |
| A0092 | Ability to identify/describe target vulnerability. | 2 |
| A0093 | Ability to identify/describe techniques/methods for conducting technical exploitation of the target. | 2 |
| A0094 | Ability to interpret and apply laws, regulations, policies, and guidance relevant to organization cyber objectives. | 6 |
| A0095 | Ability to interpret and translate customer requirements into operational action. | 2 |
| A0096 | Ability to interpret and understand complex and rapidly evolving concepts. | 4 |
| A0098 | Ability to participate as a member of planning teams, coordination groups, and task forces as necessary. | 5 |
| A0101 | Ability to recognize and mitigate cognitive biases which may affect analysis. | 6 |
| A0106 | Ability to think critically. | 9 |
| A0108 | Ability to understand objectives and effects. | 4 |
| A0109 | Ability to utilize multiple intelligence sources across all intelligence disciplines. | 6 |
| A0117 | Ability to relate strategy, business, and technology in the context of organizational dynamics. | 3 |
| A0118 | Ability to understand technology, management, and leadership issues related to organization processes and problem solving. | 5 |
| A0119 | Ability to understand the basic concepts and issues related to cyber and its organizational impact. | 7 |
| A0111 | Ability to work across departments and business units to implement organization’s privacy principles and programs, and align privacy objectives with security objectives. | 3 |
| A0112 | Ability to monitor advancements in information privacy technologies to ensure organizational adaptation and compliance. | 4 |
| A0114 | Ability to develop or procure curriculum that speaks to the topic at the appropriate level for the target. | 4 |
| A0115 | Ability to work across departments and business units to implement organization’s privacy principles and programs, and align privacy objectives with security objectives. | 2 |
| A0116 | Ability to prioritize and allocate cybersecurity resources correctly and efficiently. | 2 |
| A0119 | Ability to understand the basic concepts and issues related to cyber and its organizational impact. | 7 |
| A0123 | Ability to apply cybersecurity and privacy principles to organizational requirements (relevant to confidentiality, integrity, availability, authentication, non-repudiation). | 15 |
| A0170 | Ability to identify critical infrastructure systems with information communication technology that were designed without system security considerations. | 11 |
Tasks 21
| Code | Description | Work Roles |
|---|---|---|
| T0264 | Ensure that plans of actions and milestones or remediation plans are in place for vulnerabilities identified during risk assessments, audits, inspections, etc. | 3 |
| T0265 | Assure successful implementation and functionality of security requirements and appropriate information technology (IT) policies and procedures that are consistent with the organization's mission and goals. | 2 |
| T0268 | Define and document how the implementation of a new system or new interfaces between systems impacts the security posture of the current environment. | 2 |
| T0272 | Ensure that security design and cybersecurity development activities are properly documented (providing a functional description of security implementation) and updated as necessary. | 2 |
| T0275 | Support necessary compliance activities (e.g., ensure that system security configuration guidelines are followed, compliance monitoring occurs). | 2 |
| T0277 | Ensure that all acquisitions, procurements, and outsourcing efforts address information security requirements consistent with organization goals. | 6 |
| T0309 | Assess the effectiveness of security controls. | 2 |
| T0344 | Assess all the configuration management (change configuration/release management) processes. | 2 |
| T0371 | Establish acceptable limits for the software application, network, or system. | 2 |
| T0495 | Manage Accreditation Packages (e.g., ISO/IEC 15026-2). | 2 |
| T0145 | Manage and approve Accreditation Packages (e.g., ISO/IEC 15026-2). | 2 |
| T0177 | Perform security reviews, identify gaps in security architecture, and develop a security risk management plan. | 3 |
| T0178 | Perform security reviews and identify security gaps in security architecture resulting in recommendations for inclusion in the risk mitigation strategy. | 2 |
| T0181 | Perform risk analysis (e.g., threat, vulnerability, and probability of occurrence) whenever an application or system undergoes a major change. | 5 |
| T0184 | Plan and conduct security authorization reviews and assurance case development for initial installation of systems and networks. | 1 |
| T0205 | Provide input to the Risk Management Framework process activities and related documentation (e.g., system life-cycle support plans, concept of operations, operational procedures, and maintenance training materials). | 6 |
| T0221 | Review authorization and assurance documents to confirm that the level of risk is within acceptable limits for each software application, system, and network. | 2 |
| T0243 | Verify and update security documentation reflecting the application/system security design features. | 2 |
| T0244 | Verify that application software/network/system security postures are implemented as stated, document deviations, and recommend required actions to correct those deviations. | 1 |
| T0251 | Develop security compliance processes and/or audits for external services (e.g., cloud service providers, data centers). | 1 |
| T0255 | Participate in Risk Governance process to provide security risks, mitigations, and input on other technical risk. | 2 |