About this role
Job SummaryThis position is in the Office of the Secretary, (OST) Office of Security, Personnel Security. The incumbent is responsible for various personnel security duties with an emphasis on the adjudication of background investigations. Applies practical knowledge of commonly applied security principles, concepts and methodologies and apply judgement to processing applications for investigations.
QualificationsTo meet the minimum qualifications for this position, you must meet the specialized experience qualifications for the grade at which you are requesting consideration. To qualify for the Grade 12, you must have at least one year of experience equal or equivalent to the GS-11 it must include: Experience reviewing and evaluating report of investigations to determine security eligibility of individuals for access to sensitive information, material, resources, or work areas. Experience adjudicating report of investigations for contractors to determines fitness for entry and retention on DOT contracts and recommend appropriate action for all. Experience making final recommendations on adequacy and completeness with respect to DOT security interests under the executive orders. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: Security- Knowledge of the laws, regulations, and guidelines related to securing personnel, facilities, and information, including the requirements for handling, transporting, and protecting classified information and proper reporting of security incidents. Administrative Laws- Knowledge of state and Federal administrative laws, including procedures, regulations, guidelines, and precedents related to case preparation and settlements. Written Communication- Writes in a clear, concise, organized, and convincing manner for the intended audience. Oral Communication- Expresses information (for example, ideas or facts) to individuals or groups effectively, taking into account the audience and nature of the information (for example, technical, sensitive, controversial); makes clear and convincing oral presentations; listen to others, attends to nonverbal cues, and responds appropriately. For all types of consideration, experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. For additional information about applying to Federal positions, please click on the following link: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-policies/#url=e4 All applicants must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.
Major DutiesThe Personnel Security Specialist: Analyzes the accuracy and completeness of investigative forms and documentation against Federal Personnel Vetting standards to ensure alignment with position designation requirements and regulatory frameworks. Performs comprehensive, independent reviews of investigative reports by applying the "whole person" concept to evaluate security concerns and determine an individual's eligibility for access to sensitive information and critical resources. Interprets and apply rigorous adjudicative policies and protocols to resolve complex personnel security and suitability investigations, identifying mitigating factors to ensure substantiated, evidence-based determinations. Serves as a subject matter expert by providing precise, policy-driven guidance to DOT operating officials and external stakeholders regarding security vulnerabilities, vetting criteria, and organizational risk mitigation. Exercises discretionary authority to grant or deny national security eligibility and clearances, ensuring all determinations are grounded in a diligent and consistent application of federal vetting policy. The ideal candidate effectively manages complex personnel security adjudications by applying federal vetting standards to reach accurate, well-supported eligibility decisions. They must also serve as a reliable advisor who can clearly communicate policy requirements and security guidance to internal and external partners.RequirementsCONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance the organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your probationary period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. SELECTIVE SERVICE: Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered for the Selective Service. GOVERNMENT TRAVEL CARD: This position involves travel. A government contractor-issued travel card will be issued and must be retained for official business only. BACKGROUND INVESTIGATION: A background security investigation is required for all selected individuals. Appointment will be subject to the applicant's successful completion of the security investigation and favorable adjudication. Failure to meet these requirements will be grounds for termination. PROBATIONARY PERIOD: You must complete a one-year probationary period (unless already completed). TIME-IN-GRADE: Federal applicants must have served 52 weeks at the next lower grade in the competitive or excepted service in the executive branch to satisfy time-in-grade restrictions contained in 5 CFR 300, Subpart F. DEU REQUIREMENTS: Applicants selected under delegated examining procedures may be required to successfully complete a one-year probationary period (unless already completed). DRUG TESTING: This position requires a pre-employment drug test and is subject to random drug testing through the duration of appointment. TOP SECRET CLEARANCE: The incumbent must possess a top-secret clearance.