Personnel Security Specialist (Federal)

About the role

Personnel Security Specialists provide direct technical support and guidance on personnel suitability and security matters within the USDA Agricultural Research Service. The position involves handling background investigations, adjudicating suitability, and maintaining security records.

Key responsibilities

• Receive and process background investigation forms for applicants and incumbents.
• Determine suitability and fitness of employees based on established criteria.
• Update and maintain personnel vetting information in automated systems.
• Provide guidance to managers on suitability and security policies.
• Prepare summaries and responses to investigative security inquiries.
• Conduct adjudications for employee credentialing and fitness.
• Develop, revise, and implement security policies and procedures.

Required profile

• Must meet the 52‑week time‑in‑grade requirement for federal promotions.
• Specialized experience at the appropriate GS level (GS‑09, GS‑11, or GS‑12) in personnel security and suitability functions.
• Relevant graduate education (master’s, Ph.D., LL.B., J.D., or LL.M.) in security management, criminal justice, law, homeland security, or a related field.