Why Join Guardian Life?

Guardian Life is a premier mutual insurance company with a rich history of over 160 years, committed to inspiring well-being for our customers, colleagues, and communities. As a leader in the insurance industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth in a supportive, inclusive environment. Join our innovative team in Holmdel, NJ, and contribute to cutting-edge cybersecurity initiatives that protect millions while advancing your career. At Guardian, you'll collaborate with diverse, high-achieving professionals, access leadership development programs, and enjoy flexible work arrangements. Discover why Guardian Life is the ideal place for Principal IAM Security Architects seeking impact, innovation, and work-life balance.

Role Description

Guardian Life is seeking a Principal IAM Security Architect to serve as a thought leader and subject-matter expert in Identity and Access Management (IAM). This senior-level role involves defining enterprise-wide IAM strategies, guiding adoption of best practices across cloud (AWS, Azure) and on-premises technologies, and driving innovation to support business objectives. Reporting to the Director of Cybersecurity Architecture, you'll shape Guardian's IAM roadmap, ensure compliance with regulations like GDPR and NIST, and mentor teams to deliver secure, scalable solutions. This hybrid position requires three days a week in our Holmdel, NJ, or Bethlehem, PA offices.

Detailed Responsibilities

• Lead the definition and execution of Guardian's IAM strategy, aligning with enterprise security and technology roadmaps.
• Serve as the top-tier authority on IAM topics, integrating cloud and on-premises architectures seamlessly.
• Design scalable, reusable IAM solutions using protocols like OAuth, OIDC, SAML, and SCIM to meet current and future needs.
• Establish architectural standards, patterns, and guidelines for consistent IAM implementation organization-wide.
• Champion cybersecurity controls in IAM, AppSec, DevSecOps, and API security domains.
• Drive API security implementations with modern standards and strong authentication protocols.
• Evaluate emerging IAM tools (e.g., Okta, Ping Identity, Microsoft EntraID) and recommend strategic investments.
• Mentor senior architects and engineers, fostering talent development and technical excellence.
• Collaborate with business leaders, solution architects, and engineering teams for integrated IAM capabilities.
• Represent Guardian in industry forums, track regulatory compliance (NYDFS, CCPA), and advocate IAM's strategic value to executives.
• Oversee critical IAM project delivery, ensuring timelines, quality, and security adherence.

Required Skills

Excel as a Principal IAM Security Architect with these core competencies:

• Expertise in IAM protocols: SSO, MFA, Federation, PAM, OIDC, OAuth, SAML, SCIM.
• Proficiency in cloud IAM: AWS IAM, Microsoft Azure AD, hybrid environments.
• Hands-on experience with IAM platforms: Ping Identity, Okta, Microsoft EntraID, IDaaS.
• Deep knowledge of compliance frameworks: NIST, ISO 27001, GDPR, CCPA, NYDFS.
• API security and OWASP Top 10 mastery.
• Identity proofing, fraud prevention, and encryption technologies.
• Strategic leadership in cross-functional teams and stakeholder influence.

Education & Experience

• 15+ years in cybersecurity, with 10+ years in IAM security architecture.
• Proven leadership in enterprise IAM design and implementation across AWS, Azure, hybrid setups.
• Bachelor's or Master's in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, or related field.
• Relevant certifications: CISSP, CISM, CCSP strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated success mentoring teams and driving innovation in regulated industries like insurance.

Compensation Overview

Salary Range: $152,290 - $250,195 annually. This good faith estimate reflects base pay for Holmdel, NJ. Final offer based on education, experience, knowledge, and abilities. Eligible for annual incentives, sales bonuses, or other compensation. Guardian offers competitive total rewards to attract top Principal IAM Security Architect talent.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health, dental, vision insurance with flexible options.
• 401(k) with generous company match and financial wellness programs.
• Paid time off, parental leave, and flexible hybrid work (3 days in office).
• Professional development: tuition reimbursement, certifications, leadership training.
• Philanthropic opportunities and employee resource groups for community impact.
• Wellness programs promoting physical, mental, and financial health.
• Inclusive culture with diversity initiatives and high ethical standards.

Explore more at Guardian Life Benefits. Apply today to shape the future of IAM security at Guardian Life!