Personnel Security Specialist

Type: Full Time, On‑Site

Location: Washington, DC

Overtime Exempt: Yes

Reports To: ARMADA HQ

Security

Clearance Required:

Secret Clearance

• Personnel Security Specialist will provide pre‑screening background investigative support services for Tier 1 through Tier 5 investigations (or equivalent background investigations).
• Review and analyze SF‑85, SF‑85P, SF‑86, OF‑306, fingerprint results, FBI Criminal History Check results, applicant correspondence, court dispositions, and applicable credit reports.
• Identify, analyze, and communicate issues or concerns related to applicant suitability determinations in accordance with 5 CFR 731 suitability criteria.
• Personnel Security Specialist will conduct detailed analysis and evaluation of Personnel Suitability/Security Investigations, security files, and related source documentation.
• Evaluate available information to determine authenticity, relevance, and applicability to adjudicative decisions.
• Review suitability documentation for information adversely reflecting on an individual's conduct and character.
• Prepare and package adjudicative cases requiring management review and final suitability eligibility determinations.
• Personnel Security Specialist will prepare comprehensive written adjudication reports recommending approval, denial, or revocation of suitability eligibility with supporting rationale.
• Personnel Security Specialist will utilize Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing (eApp), Central Verification System (CVS), Personnel Investigations Processing System (PIPS), and other applicable personnel security systems to validate investigation requirements and reciprocity eligibility.
• Utilize Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Integrated Security Management System (ISMS) or similar agency systems when applicable.
• Personnel Security Specialist will develop Personnel Security (PERSEC) materials including briefing slides, reports, process guides, manuals, and other supporting documentation.
• Review and edit documentation for grammar, technical accuracy, completeness, content quality, and audience understanding.
• Communicate effectively with internal and external customers regarding sensitive personnel security matters.
• Personnel Security Specialist will provide positive customer service support while maintaining professionalism and confidentiality.
• Support supervisory reviews of adjudication reports and related correspondence activities as required.
• Other duties as assigned.

• Knowledge of Federal personnel security and suitability adjudication processes and procedures.
• Knowledge of 5 CFR 731 suitability criteria and background investigation processes.
• Ability to analyze complex personnel security and suitability information and make sound recommendations.
• Ability to prepare clear, concise, and comprehensive written adjudication reports.
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Ability to effectively communicate sensitive information both orally and in writing.
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency utilizing eApp, CVS, PIPS, and related personnel security systems.
• Intermediate or higher proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to develop reports, briefing materials, guides, and manuals.
• Ability to review and edit technical and administrative documentation for accuracy and completeness.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.

• Bachelor's degree in a security‑related discipline or a minimum of five (5) years of documented qualifying experience in personnel security, suitability adjudication, or related security functions.
• Must have recent experience within the last two (2) years providing pre‑screening background investigative support services for Tier 1 through Tier 5 investigations or equivalent background investigations.
• Experience reviewing SF‑85, SF‑85P, SF‑86, OF‑306, fingerprint results, FBI Criminal History Check results, court dispositions, and credit reports.
• Experience preparing adjudicative recommendations…