Security Specialist

The primary purpose of this performs a wide array of complex assignments in the following program areas: Communications Security, Information Security, Personnel Security, Physical Security, as well as access controls into sensitive and controlled areas. The work contributes to the overall security posture for Law Enforcement.

This Security Specialist position is located in the Special Security Section, Chief Security Office, Law Enforcement (LE), Transportation Security Administration, Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Duties include but are not limited to Identifies and analyzes various problems, weighs relevance and accuracy of information, generates and evaluates alternative solutions, and makes recommendations for improvements. Evaluates, complies and develops procedures for responding to security incidents, transmitting classified documents, and handling/accountability of highly sensitive information.

Determines and validates security clearance requirements for personnel in various program areas of responsibilities and continuously evaluates personnel and programmatic changes that may impact security levels and security requirements as defined by established security protocols, rules, regulations and guidelines. Ensures Sensitive Compartmented Information is monitored and further ensures the protection of Classified National Security Information to include electronic data and media.

Other duties as assigned and these duties are at the higher band level.

In addition to the minimum qualifications described above, you must meet the following specialized experience to be considered qualified for the position: To qualify for the SV-G Pay Band (equivalent to GS-11), you must have one year of specialized experience at the SV-F or GS-9 in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private sector. Specialized experience is defined as experience that has equipped you with the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position.

Specialized experience is defined as: Experience safeguarding sensitive information (e.g., sensitive security materials or systems) in order to avoid compromise or unauthorized disclosure. Maintaining security and access controls to protect personnel, facilities, and information while keeping systems and data available to authorized users. Evaluating intrusion detection systems, safes, secure storage containers, and access controls to ensure they meet security requirements.

OR Achievement of a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in a field of study which is in or directly related to this position. OR Three full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree. OR LL.M., if related. To qualify for the SV-H Pay Band (equivalent to GS-12), you must have one year of specialized experience at the SV-G or GS-11 in the Federal service or equivalent experience in the private sector.

Specialized experience is defined as experience that has equipped you with the knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Specialized experience is defined as: Analyzing security requirements to establish procedures for safeguarding sensitive or classified information and resolving security issues. Managing security and access controls to protect personnel, facilities, or information while ensuring systems and data are available to authorized users.

Assessing intrusion detection systems, safes, secure storage containers, or access controls to identify overall compliance governing security requirements and recommend improvements. Credit for experience is given based on a 40-hour workweek. Part-time experience is credited on a part-time ratio, i.e., working 20 hours per week for two months equals one month of experience. No additional credit is given for overtime.

National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): 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. The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.

You must meet the qualification requirements for this position no later than the closing date of the vacancy announcement.