IT & Security Operations Specialist
Firestorm
Operations, IT
San Diego, CA, USA
USD 95k-120k / year + Equity
Posted on Sep 23, 2025
IT & Security Operations Specialist
San Diego, CA
Operations
In office
Full-time
Who We Are
At Firestorm, we’re on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered. Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors — regardless of their defense budget — through innovative, cost-efficient technologies. We call this vision “democratized deterrence.” As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we’re pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators. By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we’re pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design. We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost. Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
About the Role
Firestorm Labs is seeking a skilled and motivated IT & Security Operations Specialist to join our team in San Diego. This is a highly impactful, hands-on role supporting both our internal technology and operational needs, alongside broader security initiatives. You’ll be responsible for delivering outstanding end-user support while managing and improving the systems, tools and platforms, that support the business.
The individual filling this role will serve as a go-to resource for both IT support and security operations, ensuring smooth day-to-day technical experiences for our employees, while proactively supporting the organization’s broader cybersecurity goals. This role partners closely with our Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM), DevOps and other key stakeholders to support a secure, scalable IT environment. You'll contribute to both daily operations and long-term improvements across our Microsoft Government environment, network infrastructure, and device management systems. If you are excited about solving technical challenges, thrive in a fast-paced environment and are passionate about IT and cybersecurity, this is a great opportunity to grow and make a meaningful impact.
What You'll Do
- Administer and troubleshoot Microsoft Azure Government GCC High, including Entra ID, Intune, Sentinel, and Defender
- Manage user accounts, permissions, and system access in Active Directory and related platforms
- Troubleshoot hardware and software issues across Windows, MacOS, and Linux environments
- Provision and configure laptops, tablets, and phones, including software installation and onboarding
- Provide first-line technical support to onsite and remote employees
- Monitor and respond to alerts in Microsoft Defender and Sentinel portals to identify deficiencies and vulnerabilities, while working with our ISSM to develop corrective actions, and remediation plans
- Support POA&M remediation efforts in collaboration with the ISSM
- Implement and maintain endpoint security, patching, and Intune policies
- Troubleshoot connectivity issues including VPN, DNS, VLANs, and DHCP
- Collaborate with DevOps and Information Security teams to improve systems and ensure secure IT operations
- Administer and support collaboration platforms including Microsoft 365, Confluence, Jira, and engineering tools
- Maintain and support cloud environments including Office 365 and Microsoft Azure
- Maintain accurate records of IT assets, licenses, and configurations
- Assist in the creation and maintenance of user documentation, as well as as internal knowledge base articles, on Jira and SharePoint.
- Assist with security assessments for vetting new tools or services
- Collaborate with vendors on hardware purchases
- Participate in ongoing improvement of IT and security processes and documentation
- Support local network monitoring, assist with upgrades and routine maintenance, and interface with our Cybersecurity TPA.
- Support and uphold compliance requirements such as NIST, SOC2, HIPAA, etc.
Minimum Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a related field.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in an IT support role, with hands-on experience in systems administration.
- At least 2 years of experience using Microsoft Entra ID in cloud-only environments, including setting up user accounts, groups, troubleshooting access issues, lockouts, etc.
- U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance
- Adept at managing Microsoft Azure Government GCC High environments (i.e. Entra ID, Intune, Sentinel, Defender)
- Strong understanding and hands-on experience with Active Directory (including user/group management, policies, and permissions)
- Proficiency in troubleshooting and supporting Office 365 applications (Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, etc.) and related cloud services
- Experience supporting MacOS and Linux (Ubuntu preferred) in managed environments
- Working knowledge of networking fundamentals including VPNs, DNS, VLANs, DHCP
- Clear and professional communication with technical and non-technical users
- Strong technical writing skills for documenting systems, procedures, and troubleshooting steps.
- Effective collaborator with the ability to work across engineering disciplines and supporting business verticals
Preferred Qualifications
- Certification such as Security+, Network+, Azure Administrator, or Fortinet Networking
- 3+ years direct experience administrating a Microsoft 365 GCC High environment, including end-user lifecycle management via Intune, and security incident response via Defender
- Familiarity with Cloudflare and Cloudflare Warp
- Ability to assess security implications of new software or tools
- Prior experience in startup or fast-paced tech environments
- Experience with regulatory frameworks (CMMC, NIST 800-171)
- Experience supporting cybersecurity operations and working closely with an ISSM
- Active DoD security clearance; Secret or higher.
Additional Requirements
- Must be able to lift up to 25 lbs.
Work Environment
- This is an on-site role based in San Diego, CA.
- We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.
Compensation
U.S. Range: $95,000 - $120,000
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:
- We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
- 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
- Equity grants for new hires
- Unlimited PTO
- Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
- Generous Parental Leave
- Lifestyle Spending Account
- FSA
- DCFSA
- HSA
- Hospital Indemnity insurance
- Critical Illness insurance
- Accident insurance
- Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
- Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
Export Control Compliance
To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.
Equal Opportunity Statement
Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.
First name *
Last name *
Email *
LinkedIn URL
Location *
Resume *
Click to upload or drag and drop here
Are you authorized to work in the United States? *
U.S. Work Authorization
Are you any of the following “protected individual(s)” as defined in the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)? *
EXPORT CONTROLS - This position requires access to information and technology that is subject to U.S. export controls. Your responses to the questions below will be used solely to determine your eligibility under U.S. law to receive information and materials subject to U.S. export controls.
Are you a U.S. Citizen who can obtain & maintain a Security Clearance? *
Do you presently hold an active U.S. security clearance, or are you eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance? *
Clearance Eligibility - This position requires eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance
Do you reside in the San Diego CA area? *
Voluntary Self-Identification
To comply with government reporting requirements, we invite candidates to participate in the self-identification survey below. Your completion of this form is entirely optional, and your decision will neither influence the hiring process nor any subsequent stages. Any information you choose to share will be kept confidential and stored in a secure file. As outlined in our Equal Employment Opportunity policy, we uphold a commitment to non-discrimination based on any protected group status specified in applicable laws.
Gender
Race
Race and ethnicity descriptions
Voluntary Self-Identification of Veteran Status
VEVRAA requires Government contractors to take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment protected veterans. To help us measure the effectiveness of our outreach and recruitment efforts of veterans, we are asking you to tell us if you are a veteran covered by VEVRAA. If you believe that you belong to any of the following categories of protected veterans, please indicate by making the appropriate selection.
Veteran status descriptions
Disabled veteran
A veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military and is entitled to disability compensation (or who but for the receipt of military retired pay would be entitled to disability compensation) under laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, or was discharged or released from active duty because of a service-connected disabilityRecently separated veteran
A veteran separated during the three-year period beginning on the date of the veteran's discharge or release from active duty in the U.S military, ground, naval, or air serviceActive duty wartime or campaign badge veteran
A veteran who served on active duty in the U.S. military during a war, or in a campaign or expedition for which a campaign badge was authorized under the laws administered by the Department of DefenseArmed Forces service medal veteran
A veteran who, while serving on active duty in the U.S. military ground, naval, or air service, participated in a United States military operation for which an Armed Forces service medal was awarded pursuant to Executive Order 12985 (61 Fed. Reg. 1209).Veteran status
Voluntary Self-Identification of Disability Status
Form CC-305
OMB Control Number 1250-0005
Page 1 of 1
Expires 04/30/2026
We are a federal contractor or subcontractor. The law requires us to provide equal employment opportunity to qualified people with disabilities. We have a goal of having at least 7% of our workers as people with disabilities. The law says we must measure our progress towards this goal. To do this, we must ask applicants and employees if they have a disability or have ever had one. People can become disabled, so we need to ask this question at least every five years.
Completing this form is voluntary, and we hope that you will choose to do so. Your answer is confidential. No one who makes hiring decisions will see it. Your decision to complete the form and your answer will not harm you in any way. If you want to learn more about the law or this form, visit the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) website at www.dol.gov/ofccp.
Disability descriptions
A disability is a condition that substantially limits one or more of your “major life activities.” If you have or have ever had such a condition, you are a person with a disability. Disabilities include, but are not limited to:
Disability status
PUBLIC BURDEN STATEMENT: According to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 no persons are required to respond to a collection of information unless such collection displays a valid OMB control number. This survey should take about 5 minutes to complete.
By applying you agree to Gem's terms and privacy policy.
Save your info to apply to other roles faster & help employers reach you.
Req ID: R86