Director, Cyber Architecture & Engineering

ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT

The University of Southern California (USC) is advancing its cybersecurity posture with a renewed focus on resilience, cyber risk management, and threat-informed defense. As a world-class research institution, USC is building a culture of security that supports its academic and research mission in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

This role sits within a newly restructured cybersecurity organization that’s leading this transformation. You’ll join a team focused on scalable, proactive defense strategies, incident preparedness, and operational excellence—working alongside experts who are deeply committed to service, innovation, and impact.

If you’re driven by purpose, thrive in complexity, and want to help shape the future of cybersecurity at a leading university, we invite you to bring your leadership to the table.

POSITION SUMMARY

As theDirector, Cyber Architecture & Engineeringyou will be an integral leaderof the cybersecurity departmentwhile also collaborating with stakeholders across the university ecosystem, andreporting to the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO). This is a full-time exempt position, eligible for all of USC’s fantastic Benefits + Perks. This opportunity is hybrid.

The Director, Cyber Architecture & Engineering leads the design, development and implementation of the university’s cybersecurity architecture and engineering initiatives. Oversees the creation and maintenance of the Enterprise Security Architecture Framework and provides expert guidance on technology implementations, ensuring security solutions align with university objectives. Collaborates and works closely with cross-functional cybersecurity units to design, build, implement and configure security solutions (i.e., tools, processes) that facilitate robust security posture. Ensures security architecture designs and engineered configurations are scalable, resilient and aligned with industry best practices. Oversees the management and maintenance of technology deployed to protect systems from information risks (e.g., security threats, data exfiltration).

The Director, Cyber Architecture & Engineeringwill:

• Lead Cybersecurity Architecture and Engineering Strategy
  Direct the design, implementation, and configuration of key cybersecurity tools and infrastructure across the university. Ensure all systems and technologies are scalable, resilient, and aligned with best practices to safeguard against cyber threats and data breaches.

• Oversee Security Infrastructure and Tool Management
  Manage the integrity and effectiveness of security tools and technologies. Provide oversight on technology deployments that protect university systems and data, while ensuring seamless integration with university-wide governance frameworks.

• Provide Vision and Technical Expertise
  Serve as the subject-matter expert for cybersecurity architecture and engineering. Establish and maintain the Enterprise Security Architecture Framework and ensure alignment with university strategy and compliance requirements.

• Lead and Develop a High-Performing Team
  Set priorities for the Cyber Architecture and Engineering team while overseeing all aspects of staff management including hiring, training, performance reviews, and technical mentorship.

• Drive Risk-Based Cybersecurity Solutions
  Collaborate with internal stakeholders to evaluate risks and recommend proactive security solutions. Stay informed on emerging trends, technologies, and industry standards to continuously elevate the university's cybersecurity posture.

• Foster an Inclusive and Ethical Work Culture
  Promote a workplace culture grounded in respect, inclusion, and the USC Code of Ethics. Ensure all employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to the mission of the university.

• Emergency Response and Compliance Responsibilities
  Participate in emergency preparedness and mandated reporting responsibilities as required by USC policy and state law, including serving as a Campus Security Authority (CSA).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Greatcandidates for the position of Director, Cyber Architecture & Engineeringwill meet the following qualifications:

• 10 years in security architecture design and network security and/or related fields.

• A bachelor’s degree in information science or computer science or computer engineering or in related field(s); or combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.

• Exceptional understanding of security engineering processes (e.g., acquisition, design, build, operation).

• Expertise in analyzing current-state security technologies and architectures and providing recommendations for future state solutions.

• Strong understanding of technology and systems infrastructure, with the ability to guide the university's securitytechnology roadmap.

• Proven ability to drive technical projects to successful completion, demonstrating project management excellence.

• Leadership skills to manage large programs and work effectively across different business lines within a complex organization.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with the ability to interact with and influence senior levels of management.

• Capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, adapt to changing priorities, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

Exceptional candidates for the position of Director, Cyber Architecture & Engineeringwill also bring the following qualifications or more:

• 12 years of relevant experience.

• A master’s degree in information science or computer science or computer engineering or in related field(s); or combined experience/education as substitute for minimum education.

• Familiarity with existing university security architecture.

• Cyber certification (e.g., CISSP, GIAC, CISM).

In addition, the successful candidate must also demonstrate, through ideas, words and actions, a strong commitment to USC’s Unifying Values of integrity, excellence, community, well-being, open communication, and accountability.

SALARY AND BENEFITS

The annual base salary range for this position is $240,133.10 - $290,144.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate’s work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer alignment, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations.

To support the well-being of our faculty and staff, USC provides benefits-eligible employees with a broad range of perks to help protect their and their dependents’ health, wealth, and future. These benefits are available as part of the overall compensation and total rewards package. You can learn more about USC’s comprehensive benefits here.

Join the USC cybersecurity team within an environment of innovation and excellence.