Federal Contracting Acronym
FSO
Facility Security Officer
Plain-English definition
The Facility Security Officer administers an cleared contractor's industrial security program under the National Industrial Security Program. In federal practice, Facility Security Officer connects to how contracting officers, program offices, and industry teams interpret requirements, document decisions, and execute awards. Authoritative context is typically found in DCSA materials and agency supplements where applicable. Contractors should trace how FSO appears in the specific solicitation or contract rather than assuming uniform usage across agencies.
Why it matters
Understanding Facility Security Officer (FSO) reduces misalignment during proposal preparation, contract performance, and compliance reviews tied to compliance obligations.
Where you will see it
SAM.gov notices, contract clauses and attachments, DoD forms and supply systems when applicable, and internal capture or program management documentation.
Example in context
During a bid review, the capture lead notes FSO in the solicitation, assigns a subject-matter owner to confirm requirements, and records the decision in the compliance matrix.