James G. Smith
Mount Airy,MD
Summary
Network administrator and cybersecurity professional delivering robust support for over 180 users across diverse environments, including Windows, Linux, and VMware. Recognized for exceptional customer service and comprehensive technical documentation while enhancing security through effective vulnerability assessments and incident response.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Network Systems Engineer
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
07.2023 - 05.2025
- Designed secure network architectures for classified communication systems.
- Delivered network administration and operations support for 180+ Windows/Linux users and NSA CEC infrastructure, ensuring reliable access to VMware, Jira, Cisco firewalls and switches, Active Directory, thin clients, and servers.
- Configured and maintained routers and switches for optimal performance.
- Analyzed network traffic to identify potential security threats.
- Ensured High Value Asset security through system administration, information assurance, continuous monitoring, and comprehensive technical documentation in Confluence.
Cybersecurity Network Evaluator/Defensive Network Operations Blue Team
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
12.2021 - 07.2023
- Conducted vulnerability assessments and intrusion detection, providing incident response support for Department of Defense, Intelligence Community, and federal government networks.
- Advised customers on remediation strategies for malicious activity and researched emerging security technologies to enhance detection capabilities for vulnerabilities and compromised systems.
- Conducted comprehensive evaluations of intelligence programs and operations.
- Analyzed data using advanced software tools to assess operational effectiveness.
- Developed detailed reports on evaluation findings for senior leadership review.
Cybersecurity Researcher/Laboratory for Advanced Cybersecurity Research
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
08.2019 - 12.2021
- Advanced hypervisor protection and Linux kernel attestation while implementing MITRE ATT&CK-based threat reporting initiatives with Intel x86 and open-source technologies, bolstering overall cybersecurity posture.
- Researched and developed cybersecurity prototypes with commercial hardware and software, enhancing protection of mission-critical systems and fortifying network defense.
- Developed security protocols to safeguard sensitive information and systems.
- Analyzed cybersecurity threats using advanced analytical tools and methodologies.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance cybersecurity measures.
Cybersecurity Software Development Lead
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
03.2017 - 08.2019
- Led cross-functional teams to design secure software solutions for national defense.
- Led software engineering and cyber systems teams on high-visibility Department of Defense projects, driving IT modernization and enhancing security integration efforts.
- Managed software development lifecycle from requirements gathering to deployment.
- Mentored junior developers, fostering skill development and collaboration.
Cybersecurity Engineering Lead
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
05.2016 - 03.2017
- Led engineering teams to develop secure communication systems for national defense.
- Led engineering and test teams to evaluate cybersecurity solutions and assess nineteen commercial products for operational value.
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to enhance cybersecurity protocols and practices.
- Oversaw project timelines and resource allocation for multiple engineering initiatives.
Software Development Services Team Lead
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
03.2011 - 07.2013
- Led services team to enhance operational efficiency and service delivery.
- Developed workflows to streamline processes and reduce service delays.
- Coordinated training programs for staff to improve skills and knowledge.
- Oversaw network backbone and development operations, project resources, and infrastructure for large-scale cyber training and development events.
Program Manager, White House Senior National Leadership Communications
National Security Agency (NSA)
Fort Meade, USA
11.2006 - 02.2008
- Coordinated secure communications product support and certification efforts for senior national leadership and Department of Defense partners, ensuring effective technical solutions.
- Led cross-functional teams to develop and implement strategic initiatives.
- Coordinated project timelines and resources for multiple security programs.
- Facilitated communication between stakeholders to ensure project alignment.
Education
Master of Science - Computer Science/Computer and Network Security
Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering
Baltimore, MD05-2006
B.S. - Computer Science
University of Maryland Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD12-2003
Skills
- Network administration
- Network architecture design
- Secure network design
- Network monitoring
- Router management
- Vulnerability assessment
- Incident response
Professional Development
- 08/01/17, Joint Advanced Cyber Warfare Graduate; completed advanced training in cyber policy, legal authorities, strategy, planning, and information operations.
- 05/01/06, Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering, M.S., Computer Science/Computer and Network Security, graduated with honors.
- 12/01/03, University of Maryland Baltimore County, B.S., Computer Science, graduated with honors.
Timeline
Network Systems Engineer
National Security Agency (NSA)
07.2023 - 05.2025
Cybersecurity Network Evaluator/Defensive Network Operations Blue Team
National Security Agency (NSA)
12.2021 - 07.2023
Cybersecurity Researcher/Laboratory for Advanced Cybersecurity Research
National Security Agency (NSA)
08.2019 - 12.2021
Cybersecurity Software Development Lead
National Security Agency (NSA)
03.2017 - 08.2019
Cybersecurity Engineering Lead
National Security Agency (NSA)
05.2016 - 03.2017
Software Development Services Team Lead
National Security Agency (NSA)
03.2011 - 07.2013
Program Manager, White House Senior National Leadership Communications
National Security Agency (NSA)
11.2006 - 02.2008
Master of Science - Computer Science/Computer and Network Security
Johns Hopkins University Whiting School of Engineering
B.S. - Computer Science
University of Maryland Baltimore County