Senior FOIA Specialist

Central Research • Washington, VA

6d

About The Position

Central Research Inc. (CRI) partners with federal agencies to deliver mission-critical information management and compliance services. We value integrity, service, and excellence, and foster a collaborative, learning-focused environment.

The Senior FOIA Specialist performs advanced FOIA processing in support of our government client and provides enterprise-wide FOIA operations. You will work with minimal oversight to process requests across all multi-track categories (Simple, Complex, Expedited) and Backlogged requests in the eFOIA system. Provides subject-matter guidance, mentors staff, conducts complex reviews, applies exemptions with expert accuracy, supports QA and DOJ reporting, and ensures timely, compliant releases.

Requirements

• US Citizenship required
• Bachelor’s degree required.
• Additional FOIA experience may substitute for formal FOIA training or degree requirements.
• Three (3) years of successful FOIA request processing within the last 48 months.
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database tools.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Federal Public Trust (5c) security clearance (financial/credit history and background will be reviewed):
• Not in default on federal student loans
• Demonstrated financial responsibility
• No felony convictions within the past 7 years
• Misdemeanor convictions within the past 7 years may impact eligibility
• No non-medical collections totaling $7,500 or more.
• Meets or exceeds all Journeyman FOIA Contractor KSAs.
• Minimum three (3) years of FOIA request processing experience within the last 48 months.
• Expert application of FOIA exemptions, DOJ guidance, and FOIA statutes.
• Demonstrated ability to mentor, train, and guide staff to correct processing discrepancies.
• Strong analytical, legal-review, and written/verbal communication skills; emphasis on teamwork and collaboration.
• Ability to perform thorough reviews and identify potential harm to ensure accurate, compliant releases.
• Comprehensive knowledge of DOJ reporting requirements and submission procedures.
• Promotes and models VA values and high standards of performance.
• Proficiency with word processing, spreadsheet, presentation, and database tools.
• Ability to conduct effective internet and records research to support FOIA search and review activities.

Nice To Haves

• FOIA related training preferred

Responsibilities

• Perform advanced review and processing of FOIA requests, redactions, and releases with minimal supervision.
• Apply FOIA exemptions and DOJ guidance accurately and consistently.
• Conduct complex legal and privacy analyses to identify potential harm and ensure compliant disclosures.
• Mentor, train, and provide subject-matter guidance to junior and mid-level FOIA staff, correct processing discrepancies.
• Support quality assurance and peer review activities; ensure consistency across releases.
• Prepare and submit DOJ/agency-required FOIA reports per established procedures.
• Identify process improvement opportunities and contribute to FOIA program effectiveness.
• Serve as a role model by upholding VA values and high-performance standards.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level