The Personnel Security Specialist (PSS) completes personnel security suitability adjudications tasks and serves in a Lead capacity for the Adjudications Unit, in support of DHS Federal Protective Services (FPS), Personnel Security Division (PSD).
Manages receipt of security documents submitted from contractor applicants.
Initiates contact with personal references, employers of applicants, and appointees for use in pre-employment suitability inquiries.
Verifies the appropriate level of background investigation being requested, and ensures all documents required for suitability processing have been completed and included in the individual files.
Prepares, submits, monitors, and updates computer tracking systems concerning appropriate case material.
Review credit and criminal history reports, compose Letters of Interrogatory (LOI), review Reports of Investigation (ROI), and document derogatory information in the case management system.
Provide suitability recommendations based on 5CFR731 requirements.
Serves as main POC for the Adjudications Unit, interfacing with the Adjudications Branch Chief, program leadership, and contractors in the Adjudications Unit.
Provides initial and refresher training to new and existing employees.
Manage case assignments and assist with resolving related issues.
Report any performance concerns to program leadership.
Ability to effectively communicate at all levels and to demonstrate strong leadership skills.
Identify process improvement opportunities for case processing.
Participates in special projects.
Additional duties as needed.
Associates Degree or equivalent required.
1 year of experience in a lead role.
Minimum of three (3) years of relevant experience.
Relevant experience shall include experience within one or more of the standard securities and/or intelligence fields e.g., technical, physical, information, industrial, personnel and operational security.
Subject matter expertise and hands-on experience in one or more security and/or intelligence discipline and experience implementing complex government security and/or intelligence programs and policies is preferable.
Must be highly organized and have excellent oral and written communication skills.
Shall demonstrate a proficiency in various types of information technology applications, such as Microsoft Office, including MS Word, Access, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a US government security clearance.
Familiarity with ISMS, eQIP, CVS, and/or DISS is preferred, but not required.