Personnel Security Specialist

About the role

The Personnel Security Specialist will provide support for personnel security and suitability adjudication functions in accordance with established Federal policies, procedures, and regulations.

Responsibilities

• Provide pre-screening background investigative support services for Tier 1 through Tier 5 investigations (or equivalent background investigations)
• Review and analyze SF-85, SF-85P, SF-86, OF-306, fingerprint results, FBI Criminal History Check results, applicant correspondence, court dispositions, and applicable credit reports
• Identify, analyze, and communicate issues or concerns related to applicant suitability determinations in accordance with 5 CFR 731 suitability criteria
• Conduct detailed analysis and evaluation of Personnel Suitability/Security Investigations, security files, and related source documentation
• Evaluate available information to determine authenticity, relevance, and applicability to adjudicative decisions
• Review suitability documentation for information adversely reflecting on an individual's conduct and character
• Prepare and package adjudicative cases requiring management review and final suitability eligibility determinations
• Prepare comprehensive written adjudication reports recommending approval, denial, or revocation of suitability eligibility with supporting rationale
• Utilize Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (eApp), Central Verification System (CVS), Personnel Investigations Processing System (PIPS), and other applicable personnel security systems
• Develop Personnel Security (PERSEC) materials including briefing slides, reports, process guides, manuals, and other supporting documentation
• Communicate effectively with internal and external customers regarding sensitive personnel security matters
• Provide positive customer service support while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a security-related discipline or a minimum of five (5) years of documented qualifying experience in personnel security, suitability adjudication, or related security functions
• Recent experience within the last two (2) years providing pre-screening background investigative support services for Tier 1 through Tier 5 investigations or equivalent background investigations
• Experience reviewing SF-85, SF-85P, SF-86, OF-306, fingerprint results, FBI Criminal History Check results, court dispositions, and credit reports
• Experience preparing adjudicative recommendations regarding personnel suitability determinations
• Completion of the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Essentials of Suitability Adjudication Program, Basic Adjudication courses, or similar applicable adjudication/suitability training

Skills

• Knowledge of Federal personnel security and suitability adjudication processes and procedures
• Knowledge of 5 CFR 731 suitability criteria and background investigation processes
• Ability to analyze complex personnel security and suitability information and make sound recommendations
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written adjudication reports
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills
• Ability to effectively communicate sensitive information both orally and in writing
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal communication skills
• Proficiency utilizing eApp, CVS, PIPS, and related personnel security systems
• Intermediate or higher proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint

Qualifications

Must have a Secret Clearance and be able to successfully pass a background check and pre-employment drug testing.