Research Security Compliance Specialist - 529144

The University of Alabama • Tuscaloosa, AL

21h • Onsite

About The Position

The Research Security Compliance Specialist processes and manages security clearances for researchers, including background investigations, fingerprinting, and submissions to the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA). This role involves safeguarding classified documents, data, and equipment in secure facilities through access controls, secure storage, and transmission protocols. The specialist ensures that security processes integrate seamlessly into the University of Alabama’s research ecosystem.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and two (2) years of experience; OR master's degree.
• Must have or be able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret-level security clearance.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Proficiency in security management software (e.g., National Industrial Security System - NISS).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact effectively with a variety of stakeholders, including government officials and university personnel.
• Commitment to ethical practices.
• Attention to detail.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion.

Nice To Haves

• Active U.S. Secret-level security clearance.
• Three (3) years of experience in industrial security, compliance, or a related field, with direct involvement in NISPOM implementation and ICD 705 compliance or Military equivalent.
• Experience in an academic or research environment, including supporting cleared programs or federal contracts.
• Certification as a Facility Security Officer (e.g., CDSE FSO Program Management for Possessing Facilities) or equivalent training.
• Familiarity with Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) handling, marking, and dissemination per NIST SP 800-171 and Executive Order 13556.
• Knowledge of additional DoD guidance, such as DoD Manuals 5200.01 (Volumes 1-4) and 5205.07, as well as Intelligence Community standards.

Responsibilities

• Process and manage security clearances for researchers, including background investigations, fingerprinting, and submissions to the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA).
• Safeguard classified documents, data, and equipment in secure facilities through access controls, secure storage, and transmission protocols.
• Ensure security processes integrate seamlessly into UA’s research ecosystem.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 501-1,000 employees