Registration Authority (RA)

About This Role

The Registration Authority (RA) manages and processes Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) credentials within the Department of Defense (DoD) environment, including identity validation, certificate issuance, and lifecycle support for classified and unclassified environments. This role ensures all operations comply with DoD, DISA, and NIST identity assurance and information security policies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct identity proofing and validation for DoD personnel, contractors, and system entities in accordance with specified directives
• Operate and manage PKI issuance systems to process requests for CACs, SIPRNet tokens, and software/hardware-based certificates
• Maintain Registration Authority Workstations (RAWs), ensuring compliance with DISA STIGs, operational readiness, and audit tracking
• Issue, revoke, renew, or suspend digital certificates in coordination with the Certificate Authority (CA)
• Maintain complete and accurate logs, audit records, and documentation of all PKI transactions
• Coordinate with Local Registration Authorities (LRAs), Trusted Agents (TAs), ISSOs, and Network/System Administrators to support user access and credential delivery
• Respond to user requests and troubleshoot PKI-related issues including certificate chain validation and smart card/token problems
• Support internal and external audits by preparing documentation, performing self-assessments, and remediating findings
• Enforce policies to protect sensitive information and cryptographic materials in accordance with DoD cybersecurity standards

Requirements

• Active Secret clearance
• 3-5 years of experience in PKI operations, cybersecurity, or identity management
• Working knowledge of the DoD PKI infrastructure
• Familiarity with hardware token management, smart card readers, middleware, and PKI tools (Entrust or ActivIdentity)
• In-depth understanding of DoDI 8520.02, CNSSI 1300, CNSSI 4005/4006, and NIST SP 800-63-3
• Ability to manage sensitive information and maintain accountability of digital credentials
• DoD 8570 IAT Level II certification (e.g., Security+ CE)

Qualifications

• 3-5 years of experience in PKI operations, cybersecurity, or identity management, with specific experience as a Registration Authority or related role

Nice to Have

• Completion of official DoD RA or PKI Operations training
• Experience operating RA Workstations and associated PKI support tools in SIPRNet environments
• Familiarity with eMASS, STIG Viewer, and other cybersecurity compliance tools
• Prior experience supporting federal audits, RMF documentation, or identity and access management (IAM) frameworks

Skills

* Required skills

Benefits

Certifications