This position is part of the Education Human Resources, Bureau of Indian Education (BIE), Department of the Interior (DOI). As a Personnel Security Specialist you will be responsible ensure uniformity and fairness for all individuals that are required to have a background investigation and to determine suitability for employment.
Applicants must meet the qualification requirements contained in the OPM Standards. For this position, they are listed below. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the work of the position to be filled. To be creditable, specialized experience must have been equivalent to at least the next lower grade level in the normal line of progression for the occupation in the organization. GS-13: One (1) year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-12 level in the Federal service that includes: Initiates and reviews background investigations for applicants, volunteers, and contractors seeking access to BIE facilities. Analyzes and adjudicates investigation results to determine suitability for federal employment, and access to IT or classified resources. Complies with federal policies, procedures and regulation to support the personnel security program. Coordinates with federal agencies, manages sensitive documents, and ensures timely processing of investigations. Provides guidance, training, and technical assistance to Bureau staff and tribal organizations. Time-In-Grade Requirements: Merit Promotion (status) candidates must have completed one year (52 weeks) of service at the next lower grade level. Learn more about what is time-in grade. All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
As a Personnel Security Specialist, GS-0080-13, your typical work assignments will include the following under supervision: Conducts interviews and gathers critical information for adjudication decisions affecting federal employment, access to Indian children, and secure systems, while maintaining strict confidentiality of sensitive documents. Interprets and applies personnel security policies, adjudicates complex clearance cases, and provides guidance to Bureau staff and tribal organizations on character investigations and statutory requirements. Oversees investigation scheduling, tracks reinvestigation timelines, and ensures appropriate actions are taken on derogatory findings, maintaining compliance with federal regulations. Participates in team meetings to improve standard procedures, delivers Bureau-wide training, and drafts policy updates by analyzing regulatory changes and resolving legal or procedural conflicts. Represents the Personnel Security program in inter-agency settings, liaises with various agencies to promote cooperation, and ensures consistent application of federal security standards.