VP of IT and Cybersecurity

Company Overview

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing an autonomous gun turret using advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely detect, track, and neutralize enemy drones.

With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders’ successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop will have a real-world impact.

About The Role

We are looking for a VP of IT and Cybersecurity to build and lead the IT and security function at ACS from the ground up. You will own everything from day-to-day infrastructure and help desk to classified work readiness, government compliance, and security architecture for a rapidly scaling defense company. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires genuine technical depth alongside the ability to set strategy, build teams, and operate in a complex regulatory environment. The right candidate has a “yes-first” mindset, enabling operational efficiency while maintaining a secure and compliant environment across engineering, manufacturing, mission operations, and business development teams.

What You’ll Do

• Build and manage IT operations across endpoint and device management, computing cluster administration, identity and access management, help desk, incident response, and network and security architecture.

• Own government compliance across CMMC, NIST 800-171, and ITAR-controlled operations; drive CMMC readiness and lead the organization toward C3PAO audit prior to the November 2026 deadline.

• Develop a roadmap for classified work infrastructure including secure environments, SCIF planning and buildout, and the controls and operating procedures required to support classified programs.

• Build IT security protocols for international operational travel and deployment; support export compliance administration and facilities security operations.

• Lead enterprise software implementation and support; partner with engineering, manufacturing, mission operations, business development, contracts, and innovation lab teams to deliver technology solutions that enable operational efficiency across the company.

What You’ll Need

• Hands-on technical ability as a system administrator; proficiency in Unix command line, Bash scripting, and Windows scripting is a hard requirement for this role.

• Familiarity with government contracting requirements and export controls including CMMC, NIST 800-171, and ITAR; demonstrated experience driving compliance programs in a defense or government contracting environment.

• Experience supporting field deployment operations including IT security protocols for international travel; enabling, pragmatic, and risk-based approach to security decision-making.

• Proven ability to build and lead IT teams; experience scaling infrastructure and security programs in a fast-moving environment.

You’ll Stand Out

• CMMC certification or direct experience leading a CMMC readiness and C3PAO audit process.

• Prior experience with classified work environments, SCIF planning and buildout, or supporting programs requiring CUI controls.

• Active security clearance or prior clearance with the ability to reinstate.

• Experience in a fast-scaling defense tech or deep tech startup environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary

• ACS Equity Package

• Health, Dental, Vision Insurance

• Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. #LI-AS1