Overview
A Certified SCIF Engineer is a cleared technical professional responsible for the planning, design, construction, accreditation support, and maintenance of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs).
These facilities are used by U.S. government and authorized contractors to process, store, discuss, and transmit Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). The engineer ensures that SCIFs meet all applicable physical, technical, and information security requirements.
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IMPORTANT/PLEASE READ
Upcoming Certified Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF) Engineer Training by Tonex:
Public Training with Exam: Jan 27-28, 2026
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Primary Responsibilities
•Design SCIF layouts in compliance with Intelligence Community and Department of Defense security standards
• Integrate physical, technical, and electromagnetic security measures into facility designs
• Support new construction, renovation, and retrofit of SCIF spaces
• Develop construction security plans and oversee secure construction practices
• Coordinate with Accrediting Officials, Special Security Officers, and security managers
• Conduct site surveys, risk assessments, and vulnerability analyses
• Prepare and maintain documentation required for SCIF accreditation and re-accreditation
• Troubleshoot and remediate security deficiencies identified during inspections or assessments
• Oversee secure installation of IT, communications, and power systems within SCIFs
Key Knowledge Areas
• Intelligence Community Directive (ICD) 705 and related standards
• Intelligence Community Standard (ICS) 705-1 and technical specifications
• Director of National Intelligence (DNI) SCIF policy guidance
• TEMPEST and emanations security concepts
• Physical security systems (access control, intrusion detection, CCTV)
• Acoustic, visual, and electronic countermeasures
• Secure construction methods and materials
• Federal building codes and safety standards as they apply to SCIFs
Qualifications and Skills
• Active U.S. government security clearance (typically TS/SCI)
• Background in engineering, architecture, construction management, or a related technical field
• Strong understanding of secure facility design and systems integration
• Ability to interpret and apply complex security policies and technical requirements
• Experience working with government security and intelligence stakeholders
• Strong documentation, coordination, and project management skills
Certification and Training
• Completion of SCIF-related engineering or security training programs
• Formal training on ICD 705 and ICS 705-1 requirements
• TEMPEST awareness or certification (as required by role)
• Continuing education to stay current with evolving security standards and threats
Typical Work Environments
• Intelligence Community facilities
• Department of Defense installations
• Federal government buildings
• Secure contractor facilities
• Overseas locations supporting U.S. government operations
Importance of the Role
Certified SCIF Engineers play a critical role in protecting national security information. Their work ensures that sensitive intelligence activities can be conducted in environments that prevent unauthorized access, espionage, and data compromise while meeting operational and mission needs.
Career Outlook
Demand for Certified SCIF Engineers remains strong due to ongoing intelligence, defense, and cybersecurity requirements. Opportunities exist with federal agencies, defense contractors, engineering firms, and security consulting organizations.
Want to learn more? Tonex offers Certified Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF) Engineer, a 2-day course where participants learn the principles and regulations governing SCIFs and acquire expertise in SCIF design, construction, and implementation as well as gain insights into risk management and threat assessment specific to SCIFs.
Attendees also develop proficiency in conducting SCIF inspections and audits and master the documentation and compliance procedures necessary for SCIF certification.
This course is tailored for security professionals, facility managers, architects, engineers, and government personnel involved in the planning, construction, and operation of SCIFs. It is also suitable for individuals seeking to enhance their expertise in secure facility management.
For more information, questions, comments, contact us.
