Adjudicator

Protection Strategies•Washington, DC

About The Position

Protection Strategies, Inc. (PSI) is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business providing security solutions and personnel security expertise to the U.S. Government. The Adjudicator reviews and evaluates background investigations to assess an individual's character, conduct, and suitability for employment, as well as eligibility for access to classified information. The role applies established guidelines and sound judgment to make fair and consistent determinations based on investigative findings. The position requires independent work with minimal supervision, management of a caseload, and coordination with government representatives and other stakeholders. Employment offers are contingent on passing a pre-employment drug screen.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree or an equivalent combination of education and related experience in personnel security.
Five years of experience adjudicating suitability and security background investigations.
Successful completion of an accredited Basic and Advanced Suitability Adjudication Course. The DOD course is sufficient for online Basic Adjudicator training; the contractor is responsible for the Advanced Suitability Adjudication Course.
Proficiency in Microsoft applications and knowledge of e-QIP processing.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Ability to multitask and work with tight and often conflicting deadlines.
Strong written and verbal communication, report-writing, and analytical skills.
Ability to coordinate work activities with other people and groups and interact with representatives, executives, and directors.
Considerable knowledge of laws, rules, and regulations governing personnel security and suitability.
Skill in expressing ideas, conclusions, and recommendations effectively, clearly, and concisely, orally and in writing.
Computer skills with Microsoft Office Suite and other programs and systems that facilitate work completion.
Sound judgment regarding AI systems, including awareness of their strengths, limitations, bias, accuracy, and risks; discretion when using AI with sensitive or proprietary information.

Responsibilities

Screen, review, and evaluate completed OPM-conducted issue and non-issue background investigations.
Identify and analyze derogatory and mitigating information for suitability under 5 CFR 731 and Executive Order 10450, and for national security under Executive Order 12968.
Request supporting documentation from applicants regarding financial, criminal, or other matters as needed.
Prepare detailed adjudicative analytical summaries recommending further courses of action, with supporting rationale.
Manage and prepare requests for additional information, Suitability Letters, and Letters of Advisement for government signature.
Manage caseloads and follow up in accordance with government timelines.
Review appeals and reconsideration requests and prepare summaries of recommended findings.
Apply AI tools appropriately to streamline workflows, support decision-making, and improve outcomes while following relevant policies, privacy standards, and ethical guidelines.