Entry-Level Personnel Security Specialist (PSS) - Background Operations Security Section (BOSS) - National Capital Region

Job Locations

US-DC-Washington

Job Description:

The Entry-Level Personnel Security Specialist (PSS) will support the FBI's Background Operations Security Section (BOSS) under the Security Division. The primary role involves conducting comprehensive reviews and evaluations of personnel security background investigations to support the adjudication process and ensure intelligence and security-related operations comply with applicable Executive Orders, Security Executive Agent Directives (SEADs), Investigative Standards, and FBI policies.

The candidate will collaborate with various FBI Units, government officials, and external agency counterparts to provide adjudicative recommendations and contribute to securing sensitive information.

Job Responsibilities:

Background Investigation Support:
• Conduct record checks and analyze investigative material to identify potential security concerns in accordance with Executive Orders, SEADs, and FBI policies.
• Examine background investigation cases to ensure thoroughness, resolve information gaps, and recommend adjudication actions.
• Facilitate security interviews to gather pertinent information necessary for personnel evaluations.
• Conduct thorough reviews of incoming materials, identifying investigative leads and areas of concern (e.g., credit, criminal background, foreign affiliations).
• Security Assessments & Documentation:
• Draft investigative reports outlining findings and recommendations.
• Ensure information is securely transmitted to adjudicating authorities and other stakeholders.
• Ensure all documentation is formatted and free of errors per FBI standards.
• Communication & Coordination:
• Maintain effective communication with internal and external partners to ensure timely resolution of cases.
• Provide timely responses (usually within 1 business day) to FBI/HQ inquiries.
• Support the preparation of comprehensive written justifications behind recommendations for suitability and clearance determinations.

Required Qualifications:

• U.S. Citizenship
• Active Top Secret Clearance
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution OR Associate's degree with 4 years of relevant experience in personnel security, investigative analysis, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years of experience in:
  • Conducting personnel security investigations or investigative analyses.
  • Performing and interpreting database checks (e.g., criminal records, credit reports).
  • Providing administrative support functions related to security documentation and research.
• Demonstrated ability to:
  • Analyze and critically evaluate investigative material to identify and address vulnerabilities.
  • Interpret and apply federal policies, SEAD standards, and FBI procedures in case work.
  • Communicate findings concisely and effectively in written and verbal formats.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Strong analytical, research, and organizational skills.
• Experience in performing administrative office functions, including data entry and record management.
• Ability to work under strict deadlines and maintain efficient work prioritization.
• Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills, with the ability to effectively liaise with internal and external partners.
• Proficiency in conducting open-source intelligence research is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience working in a federal law enforcement or military environment with exposure to personnel security or adjudication functions.
• Technical training or certification in security investigations or adjudication methods.
• Knowledge of Continuous Vetting and Trusted Workforce 2.0 frameworks.

$51,000 - $82,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual's experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.