Hire the Best NIST Cybersecurity Framework Specialists

Clients rate our NIST Cybersecurity Framework Specialists
Rating is 4.9 out of 5.
4.9/5
Based on 137 client reviews
Muhammad Khuram A.

Melbourne, Australia

$30/hr
5.0
4 jobs

Information Security & GRC Specialist | Cybersecurity Product Manager | Risk & Compliance Consultant I am an experienced Cybersecurity and GRC professional with a proven track record in designing, implementing, and managing security frameworks, compliance programs, and risk management strategies across public and private sectors. With a strong technical foundation and a Master’s degree in Information Security, I bridge the gap between governance, compliance, and hands-on technical security. What I Offer: ✅ Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC): Policy, procedure, and control development aligned with ISO, NIST, SOC2, GDPR, PCI-DSS, Cyber Essentails, Essential 8, NZISM, NCA, SAMA, etc. Internal audits, control testing, and evidence collection for compliance readiness Risk assessments, vendor due diligence, and enterprise risk register management Awareness training programs development ✅ Cybersecurity Consulting & Technical Expertise: Vulnerability assessment & penetration testing (Metasploit, Nessus, BurpSuite) Security operations & monitoring (SIEM, IDS/IPS, NGFW, WAF) Cloud security (AWS, Azure) and virtual environments (VMware, vSphere) Malware analysis, intrusion detection, and incident response ✅ Product Management for GRC Platforms: Lead product roadmaps for compliance, risk, vendor, and policy management modules SME in embedding international best practices (ISO 27001, NIST, COSO, etc.) into product features Experience working closely with developers, QA teams, and stakeholders to deliver secure, user-friendly, and compliance-driven platforms Skilled in customer-facing demos, stakeholder engagement, and executive-level presentations Certifications & Credentials: Certified Information Security Manager CISM - ISACA ISO/IEC 27001 Lead Implementer – PECB International Certificate in Enterprise Risk Management – IRM UK Certified in Cyber Security (CC) – (ISC)² GRC Professional – OneTrust HCIA Security – Huawei | CCNA Security – Cisco Plus certifications in Threat Intelligence, Python, and Network/Endpoint Security Why Work With Me? I combine strategic GRC expertise with deep technical cybersecurity knowledge—rare in the industry. Whether you need end-to-end compliance implementation, risk assessments, vendor security reviews, or product strategy for GRC and cyber security platforms, I can deliver with professionalism, accuracy, and a solutions-focused mindset. Let’s work together to strengthen your organization’s security posture, streamline compliance, and build trust with stakeholders.

  • Cybersecurity Management
  • Penetration Testing
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • Network Security
  • Information Security
  • Information Security Audit
  • Information Security Awareness
  • Research Documentation
  • Internet Security
  • Network Engineering
Ali H.

Manama, Bahrain

$20/hr
4.9
179 jobs

Trusted Advisor 🥇 🚀 Get Audit-Ready in 6 Weeks — Guaranteed. Confused by compliance? I translate complex regulations into simple, actionable steps. Whether you need to win enterprise trust with ISO 27001 or unblock sales with a SOC 2 report, I provide the fastest, most cost-effective path to certification. Why hire a consultant when you can hire a Strategic Partner? As the Founder of Axipro, I’ve led over 100 successful certifications in the last year alone. We don't just "give advice"—we handle the heavy lifting. 🛠 THE GRC TOOL EXPERT Are you struggling with your automated GRC platform? I am an official partner and power user of: ✅ Drata (Gold Partner) ✅ Vanta (Expert Implementation) ✅ Secureframe, Thoropass, Sprinto, Scrut, & more. I can help you get your progress running in record time and even provide discounted subscription rates through our MSSP partnership. 🛡 ONE-STOP COMPLIANCE SHOP - Policies & Procedures: Custom-tailored, audit-ready documentation. - Risk Management: Deep-dive assessments that protect your business. - Security Questionnaires: Get them off your desk and submitted in hours, not weeks. - Vulnerability Assessment and Penetration Testings: Remediation recommendations and detailed reports to improve security posture - CPA Attestation: We have in-house CPAs to sign off on your SOC 2 Type 1 & 2 reports. 🌍 GLOBAL STANDARDS COVERED ISO 27001, 9001, 14001, 45001, 27701, 27017, 27018, 42001 (AI) | SOC 2 Type 1 & 2 | HIPAA | PCI DSS | GDPR | FedRAMP | NIST CSF | CMMC | TISAX | HITRUST | SAMA NCA ⭐ WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING "Ali is a lifesaver. He got us SOC 2 certified through Vanta and saved us months of work." — Founder, Druxia (USA) "Knowledgeable, professional, and incredibly responsive. Ali got us across the line with Drata for ISO 27001." — Founder, Tilt Legal (AUS) 💎 THE AXIPRO ADVANTAGE 10+ Years Experience: Lead Engineer & Auditor minds

  • SOC 2
  • ISO 27001
  • IT Compliance Audit
  • HIPAA
  • SOC 2 Report
  • PCI DSS
  • AI Compliance
  • Data Privacy
  • GDPR
  • Governance, Risk Management & Compliance
  • Penetration Testing
  • Information Security Consultation
  • AI Governance
  • AI Security
  • CMMC
  • ISO 14001
Omer R.

London, United Kingdom

$10/hr
4.3
8 jobs

Cyber Security, Compliance, and Cloud Infrastructure expert with extensive knowledge of global regulatory standards and secure architecture review. As an ISO 27001 Lead Auditor and the CTO of CyberGaar, I bring deep technical expertise and strategic leadership to ensure your systems meet strict compliance requirements. Compliance & Audit Expertise Includes: - ISO 27001, PCI-DSS, SOC 2, GDPR - NIST SP 800-53, NIST SP 800-63, OWASP Standards - Risk & Gap Analysis, Control Activity Matrix (CAM) development - Vulnerability Assessment review, Penetration Test & Scanning Report analysis - Documentation review, Physical Security assessments, and Control Advisory Technical & Infrastructure Expertise Includes: - Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, Oracle Cloud - DevOps & CI/CD Security: Terraform, Ansible - Virtualization & Containerization: Docker, Kubernetes, VMware, Proxmox - Architecture & Code Review: C++, .NET, Java, Python, Node.js, Next.js - On-Premise and Hybrid Cloud environments

  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework
  • PCI
  • NIST SP 800-53
  • GDPR
  • HIPAA
  • ISO 27001
  • Gap Analysis
  • Secure SDLC
  • .NET Core
  • Java
  • C++
  • Python
  • Terraform
  • Ansible
  • Penetration Testing
Mihai V.

San Diego, California

$75/hr
5.0
5 jobs

I design and build production-grade security systems for companies that need to secure cloud infrastructure, pass audits, and operate in regulated environments. Most teams don’t have a security tool problem. They have an architecture, integration, and execution problem. That’s where I come in. What I Do I help startups and enterprise teams move from: ❌ fragmented tools and partial controls ❌ audit delays and failing security reviews ❌ reactive fixes and security debt → to ✅ engineered, scalable security architecture ✅ audit-ready, continuously compliant environments ✅ automated, integrated security operations Core Expertise Cloud Security & Cryptography • Multi-cloud security architecture (AWS, Azure, GCP) • TLS PKI systems with automated certificate lifecycle (IaC + CI/CD) • Encryption architecture (CMEK, KMS, data masking, data protection) • Cryptographic hardening aligned with FIPS and modern standards • DNS security, network isolation, and zero-trust patterns Identity & Access Management • SSO (SAML, OIDC), enterprise identity federation • RBAC and least-privilege system design at scale • SCIM provisioning and identity lifecycle automation • Integration with enterprise IdPs (PingFederate, Azure AD, Okta) • Cross-account and multi-environment access control Compliance & Audit Readiness • SOC 2, ISO 27001, PCI DSS, HIPAA, FedRAMP-aligned environments • End-to-end delivery: gap assessment → implementation → audit support • Control design, remediation, and evidence automation (Vanta, Drata, custom pipelines) • Continuous compliance monitoring vs point-in-time audits • Closing audit findings fast (not just identifying them) Security Engineering & Incident Response • CI/CD security (SAST, DAST, IaC scanning, secret management) • Vulnerability management with automated remediation workflows • Cloud misconfiguration detection (CIS benchmarks, runtime analysis) • Secure system design across infrastructure and application layers • Incident response, forensics support, and system hardening AI-Driven Security I don’t just integrate tools — I design security platforms. I have built and architected multi-agent AI-driven cybersecurity systems combining: • Cloud security analysis (AWS integrations, IAM analysis, misconfiguration detection) • Offensive security (recon, exploitation, privilege escalation simulation) • Vulnerability management (SAST, DAST, fuzzing, CI/CD integration) • SOC automation (SIEM/SOAR integrations, alert enrichment, playbooks) • Forensics and incident investigation workflows • Compliance reporting mapped to frameworks (SOC 2, ISO 27001, PCI, HIPAA) Key capabilities: • Multi-agent orchestration and communication • Automated remediation workflows • MITRE ATT&CK mapping and executive reporting • API-driven integrations across security tooling ecosystem • Role-based access for security, DevOps, and compliance teams This enables: → Continuous security instead of periodic assessments → 80% reduction in manual security effort → Faster audit readiness and real-time visibility How I Work • Engineering-first — I build and implement, not just advise • Work directly in production systems (cloud, identity, pipelines) • Design for real audit constraints, not theoretical compliance • Fast execution, clear communication, and ownership Typical Clients • SaaS companies preparing for SOC 2 / ISO 27001 / HIPAA • Cloud-native platforms handling sensitive or regulated data • Startups entering enterprise sales with security blockers • Organizations with fragmented security tools that don’t work together Important I’m not a fit for checklist-based security or surface-level audits. If you need: • real security architecture • working implementations • systems that pass audits and hold up in production - we’ll work well together.

  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Cybersecurity Tool
  • FedRAMP
  • PCI DSS
  • Cryptography
  • Information Security Threat Mitigation
  • Software
  • Linux
  • macOS
  • Security Engineering
  • Cloud Security
  • Metasploit
  • Software Architecture
  • Software Architecture & Design
Haroon A.

Bahawalpur, Pakistan

$16/hr
5.0
2 jobs

As a dedicated Cyber Security Analyst and Penetration Tester, I specialize in identifying security threats, simulating cyberattacks, and responding to real-time incidents to strengthen organizational security postures. My expertise bridges the gap between offensive security and robust backend development. I have worked with companies in the US, UK, Germany, Canada, and beyond, helping them meet international security standards like OWASP Top 10, NIST SP 800-53, ISO 27001, and GDPR. Cyber Security & Penetration Testing: I have hands-on experience utilizing industry-standard tools like Nmap, Burp Suite, Wireshark, and Kali Linux for network penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and digital forensics. My approach is deeply rooted in practical execution, focusing on complex, real-world attack scenarios and incident response methodologies. Secure Backend Development & API Testing: Beyond finding vulnerabilities, I build secure, scalable systems. I am proficient in Python and the Django framework, developing REST APIs tailored for high-performance business needs. I design production-level backend architectures utilizing PostgreSQL and MongoDB to ensure scalability and security from the ground up. I also conduct rigorous QA and VAPT on enterprise-level LMS platforms, ensuring strict Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) and data protection. Leadership & Mentorship: As an instructor and mentor, I design practical lab environments to train others in ethical hacking, system defense, and cyber incident response. Let's secure your infrastructure and build resilient applications together.

  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework
  • Penetration Testing
  • Information Security
  • Network Security
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • API Testing
  • Web Application Security
  • Cybersecurity Tool
  • Ethical Hacking
  • Internet Security
  • Security Analysis
  • Web Testing
  • Manual Testing
  • Bug Tracking & Reports
  • Cyber Threat Intelligence
  • OAuth
  • NIST SP 800-53
  • ISO 27001
  • OWASP
Yismaw M.

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

$5/hr
5.0
2 jobs

Hi, I’m Yismaw, a Cybersecurity and GRC (Governance, Risk & Compliance) specialist with 10+ years of experience helping Banks, NGOs and digital brands protect their information assets and meet global standards like ISO 27001, NIST, and Ethiopian cyber regulations(INSA).I offer a unique blend of developing frameworks in Business Continuity, IT Risk Management, Compliance (GRC), and Information Security, policy writing, cyber awareness, cyber content development, vulnerability assessment, IT auditing and IT risk assessment practices for improving overall system efficiencies from any threats both in Amharic and English. 🔐 My Services: ✅ Cyber Risk Assessments & Risk Register Creation ✅Incident Management & Crisis Response ✅ Policy and Procedure Development ✅Provide expert support across NIST Cybersecurity Framework. ✅Provide on IT Risk and Cyber security consulting and awareness. ✅ ISO 27001 Gap Analysis, Clause Summaries & Policy Writing ✅Business Continuity Management (BCM) and Disaster Recovery Planning & Testing ✅Governance, Risk & Compliance (GRC) ✅Vendor Risk & Outsourcing Management ✅ Incident Response Playbooks & Fraud Scenarios ✅ Website penetration testing and security auditing ✅ Cybersecurity Awareness Content (videos, blogs, infographics) ✅ Training & E-learning Modules (English + Amharic) ✅ Gumroad/Digital Product Setup for Cyber Coaches 🎯 Tools & Frameworks I Use: ✅ ISO/IEC 27001 | NIST CSF | GDPR ✅Kali Linux/Metasploit/Nessus/Rapid7/Burb suit ✅OWASP Top 10 ✅ Gumroad/Excel Risk Templates ✅Amharic-English content localization 🏆Certifications & Achievements 📚ISO/IEC 27001:2022 Lead Auditor 📚CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control) 📚 CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)

  • NIST Cybersecurity Framework
  • OWASP
  • NIST SP 800-53
  • ISO 27001
  • Vulnerability Assessment
  • Incident Management
  • Policy Development
  • Cybersecurity Tool
  • Rapid7 Nexpose
  • Kali Linux
  • Metasploit
  • Vendor Management
  • Website Security
  • IT Asset Management
  • Content Writing

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What does a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist do?

A NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist maps an organization’s existing security posture to the National Institute of Standards and Technology guidelines to identify risk gaps. This professional builds detailed Current and Target Profiles that align cybersecurity practices with specific business objectives and regulatory requirements. They translate abstract security standards into actionable implementation plans that prioritize high-impact controls. The work focuses on continuous improvement of system security through structured assessment and documented remediation strategies.

  • The specialist documents current cybersecurity practices by mapping them to the five Core Functions of Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, and Recover. This process creates a Current Profile that serves as a baseline for understanding how well the organization manages cyber risk today. The professional interviews stakeholders and reviews technical configurations to ensure the profile accurately reflects operational reality rather than just policy documents. This factual baseline allows leadership to see exactly where security measures fall short of industry standards.
  • They define a Target Profile that outlines the desired cybersecurity outcomes based on organizational mission and risk tolerance. This step requires selecting specific subcategories from the framework that match the company’s strategic goals and compliance needs. The specialist justifies each selection by linking it to broader enterprise risk management processes and business continuity requirements. This document acts as a roadmap for where the security program needs to go in the next one to three years.
  • The professional performs a gap analysis by comparing the Current Profile against the Target Profile to highlight missing controls. They produce a prioritized implementation plan that ranks corrective actions by cost, complexity, and risk reduction value. This plan guides IT teams in configuring firewalls, updating access policies, and testing incident response procedures. The specialist also updates cybersecurity planning artifacts to support faster recovery during actual security incidents.

How to hire a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist on Upwork

Step 1: Post a job

Define your cybersecurity risk management needs clearly to attract qualified specialists. Use the Job Post Generator powered by Uma™, Upwork's Mindful AI to draft a precise description in seconds. Describe your requirements in a few sentences, and Uma creates a tailored post for this role. You can write a new post, update a saved draft, or reuse an existing one.

  • Specify whether you need a Current Profile to document existing practices or a Target Profile to define desired security outcomes.
  • List specific CSF Core Functions such as Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, or Recover that require immediate attention.
  • Request examples of prior gap analysis reports where the freelancer mapped organizational practices to NIST subcategories.

Step 2: Evaluate candidates

Review portfolios for evidence of structured risk assessment and profile development. Uma runs instant video interviews and builds shortlists with side-by-side comparisons to help you assess fit quickly.

  • Look for documented Organizational Profiles that show clear mapping between business objectives and cybersecurity controls.
  • Check for gap analysis deliverables that prioritize corrective actions based on risk impact and implementation feasibility.
  • Verify experience aligning cybersecurity activities with broader enterprise risk management processes in regulated industries.

Step 3: Interview your top choices

Discuss their approach to scoping and continuous execution of the framework. Schedule and conduct interviews within Upwork Messages, which generates an immediate transcript and summary after each session.

  • Ask how they determine the scope of an Organizational Profile, including how they handle facts, assumptions, and coverage limits.
  • Request a walkthrough of a past Target Profile definition, focusing on how they justified specific outcomes against organizational needs.
  • Inquire about their method for updating profiles as organizational structures or threat landscapes change over time.

Step 4: Agree on scope and begin work

Set clear milestones for profile creation and gap analysis completion. Use Upwork Messages and the contract workroom for all communication and project management, while identity verification, payment protection, hourly tracking, and project funds secure the engagement.

  • Define deliverables such as the Current Profile document, Target Profile specification, and a prioritized implementation plan.
  • Establish milestones for submitting gap analysis results that identify missing or insufficient CSF subcategory outcomes.
  • Require updated cybersecurity planning artifacts that support incident response and recovery readiness as part of the final handoff.

Upwork is not affiliated with and does not sponsor or endorse any of the tools or services discussed in this article. These tools and services are provided only as potential options, and each reader and company should take the time needed to adequately analyze and determine the tools or services that would best fit their specific needs and situation.

The rates and information provided in this article are based on current data and industry sources available at the time of publication. Freelance rates can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, project scope, and market conditions. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research to confirm current rates and trends, as this information may change over time.

How much does hiring a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist cost?

$500-$2,500 per project is a typical range for focused NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist work. Final pricing depends on scope, technical complexity, required integrations, source-material quality, revision needs, and the freelancer's experience level.

CSF profile documentation

$500-$1,200/project

Entry-level to mid-level
  • Maps existing security practices to CSF outcomes
  • Defines desired cybersecurity state and objectives
  • Lists missing subcategory outcomes and risks

Risk alignment planning

$1,200-$2,500/project

Mid-level
  • Aligns CSF functions with enterprise risk goals
  • Ranks corrective actions by impact and effort
  • Outlines steps to close identified security gaps

Incident readiness updates

$2,500-$4,500/project

Mid-level to senior-level
  • Updates procedures for incident detection and response
  • Documents steps to restore systems after an event
  • Guides staff on new cybersecurity protocols

Continuous monitoring setup

$4,500-$7,000/project

Senior-level
  • Configures tools to track CSF metric performance
  • Defines triggers for potential security deviations
  • Visualizes real-time compliance and risk status

Enterprise integration strategy

$7,000-$12,000/project

Expert-level
  • Connects CSF outcomes with broader business processes
  • Establishes roles for ongoing framework maintenance
  • Creates standards for regular framework validation

Frequently asked questions

Is hiring a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist worth it?

For most businesses, yes: hiring a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist is worthwhile. This expert maps your current security practices to the framework's core functions and identifies specific gaps in your defense strategy. They build a prioritized plan that aligns cybersecurity efforts with your broader business risk management goals.

How do I evaluate NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist candidates?

Look for candidates who demonstrate experience creating both Current and Target Organizational Profiles. Ask them to describe a specific gap analysis they performed and how they prioritized the resulting corrective actions for a client.

What deliverables should I expect from a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist?

You should receive documented Current and Target Profiles that map your security outcomes to the framework standards. The specialist also submits a gap analysis report and a prioritized implementation plan to guide your security improvements.

How does a NIST Cybersecurity Framework specialist support incident response planning?

The specialist integrates framework outcomes into your existing response and recovery documentation. This work ensures your incident readiness aligns with the defined Target Profile and organizational risk tolerance.