Which office coordinates with DoD components and administers the National Industrial Security Program?

• A. Facility Security Officer (FSO)
• B. Contracting Officer (CO)
• C. Cognizant Security Office (CSO)
• D. Industrial Security Field Office (ISFO)

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is who oversees the National Industrial Security Program at the DoD level and serves as the main coordinator with DoD components. The Cognizant Security Office is the office designated to administer the NISP and to coordinate with DoD components to ensure contractors meet safeguarding and classification requirements. This office provides policy guidance, oversight, and the primary interface for industrial security across the DoD, handling issues like program eligibility and security clearances and ensuring consistent implementation across agencies.

In contrast, a Facility Security Officer runs on-site security at a contractor facility, implementing the program locally; a Contracting Officer handles procurement and contract terms rather than security administration; and an Industrial Security Field Office offers on-the-ground support and inspections but isn’t the central administrator of the NISP across the DoD.