Security Compliance Consultant - Join Robert Half in Columbia, South Carolina

Robert Half is seeking an exceptional Security Compliance Consultant for a long-term contract position in Columbia, South Carolina. This critical role supports Department of Defense (DoD) research initiatives, focusing on cybersecurity compliance, security architecture, and governance within a sophisticated Microsoft 365 cloud environment. As a leader in cybersecurity talent solutions, Robert Half offers you the chance to work on mission-critical projects that align technical controls with strategic institutional objectives. If you have deep expertise in CMMC compliance, risk assessments, and cloud security implementations, this opportunity will position you at the forefront of DoD cybersecurity excellence.

About the Role

In this pivotal position, you'll serve as the cornerstone of our client's compliance efforts, ensuring robust security postures for sensitive DoD research. Columbia, SC offers an ideal setting with its growing tech sector and proximity to major research institutions. You'll bridge the gap between regulatory requirements and practical technical solutions, driving security architecture reviews, gap analyses, and remediation strategies. This role demands a strategic thinker who thrives in Microsoft 365 ecosystems, identity management, and network transitions like Palo Alto to Fortinet firewall migrations. With Robert Half's backing, you'll enjoy long-term stability and access to premier cybersecurity projects that enhance your career trajectory in compliance consulting.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day impact will be profound:

• Lead CMMC and DoD compliance initiatives, conducting thorough gap analyses and crafting targeted remediation strategies to mitigate risks.
• Perform comprehensive security architecture reviews and risk assessments, pinpointing vulnerabilities and recommending enterprise-grade solutions.
• Design and implement access controls, identity management systems, and data protection protocols aligned with NIST and other compliance standards.
• Guide secure system design across hybrid environments, optimizing both cloud-based Microsoft 365 and on-premises infrastructures.
• Facilitate seamless network infrastructure transitions, including complex migrations from Palo Alto firewalls to Fortinet platforms.
• Optimize Microsoft 365 security configurations, with specialized focus on identity management, role-based access control (RBAC), and zero-trust principles.
• Author and maintain critical documentation such as security policies, procedures, and detailed System Security Plans (SSPs).
• Partner with internal teams, external consultants, and leadership to operationalize compliance requirements into actionable technical roadmaps.
• Deliver clear, stakeholder-tailored communications that demystify complex security concepts for technical and executive audiences.
• Advise senior leadership on strategic security and compliance decisions, influencing organizational risk management frameworks.

Required Qualifications

To excel, you bring:

• 5+ years of hands-on experience in cybersecurity compliance, particularly CMMC and DoD frameworks.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft 365 security tools, including Azure AD, Intune, and Defender suites.
• Demonstrated success in security architecture, risk assessments, and gap analysis methodologies.
• Practical experience with firewall migrations (Palo Alto to Fortinet) and network security transitions.
• Expertise in identity and access management (IAM), RBAC, and data governance in cloud environments.
• Proven ability to develop SSPs, policies, and procedures compliant with federal standards.
• Strong collaboration skills, with experience interfacing across technical, compliance, and executive levels.
• Relevant certifications such as CISSP, CISM, CCSP, or CMMC certifications highly preferred.
• Bachelor's degree in Cybersecurity, Information Technology, or related field.

This role requires a security clearance eligibility and deep familiarity with federal compliance landscapes.

Why Join Us at Robert Half?

Partnering with Robert Half means more than a job—it's a gateway to unparalleled career advancement in cybersecurity. Enjoy competitive pay around $80/hour (equivalent to $155K-$175K annually), long-term contract security, and exposure to cutting-edge DoD projects. Our Columbia, SC location offers a vibrant community, low cost of living, and proximity to innovation hubs. Benefit from Robert Half's industry-leading training, networking events, and talent placement expertise. Thrive in a supportive culture that values work-life balance, continuous learning, and impactful contributions to national security. Apply now to elevate your career in security compliance consulting with Robert Half—where expertise meets opportunity.

Robert Half is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, or protected veteran status.