Supervisory Government Information Specialist

National Institutes of Health•Montgomery County, MD

1d•Remote

About The Position

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of the Director (OD), Office of Communications and Public Liaison (OCPL) is seeking a Supervisory Government Information Specialist with strong leadership and program management experience to oversee the important work of processing and responding to FOIA and Privacy Act requests. This role involves providing expert advice and guidance on Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) matters, developing FOIA policy, and overseeing the processing of complex requests. The position also includes making disclosure determinations and supervising staff within the Freedom of Information Office.

Requirements

U.S. Citizenship requirement or proof of being a U.S. National must be met by closing date.
Employment is subject to the successful completion of a background investigation, verification of qualifications, completion of onboarding forms, submission of required documents, and any other job-related requirement before or after appointment.
Applicants must meet all qualifications requirements within thirty (30) calendar days of the closing date of this announcement, including time in grade.
Males born after December 31, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Based on your appointment, a two-year trial/probationary period may be required.
Must demonstrate in your resume at least one (1) year of qualifying experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 level in the Federal service obtained in either the private or public sector, performing the following types of tasks: examining complex and unprecedented requests filed under the Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act; serving as an expert who provides advice on the most difficult Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act issues (such as when subpoenas are used; requests have been previously denied; or when legal action is pending); evaluating the effectiveness of Freedom of Information Act or Privacy Act programs; training and mentoring subordinates to provide written responses to Freedom of Information Act and Privacy Act requests, ensuring complete coverage of all issues, proper coordination with the appropriate parties, and compliance with all regulations and policies.

Responsibilities

Provide expert advice and guidance to senior NIH leadership and staff on Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) matters, including sensitive and complex requests.
Develop FOIA policy, program direction, procedures, and written technical guidance for NIH FOIA coordinators and staff.
Oversee and direct the processing of highly complex or controversial FOIA requests, including matters involving pending litigation or investigations.
Make disclosure determinations and issue decisions regarding FOIA denials, expedited processing requests, and fee waivers.
Provide technical and administrative supervision to Freedom of Information Office staff, including assigning work, evaluating performance, and addressing work and personnel matters.