Become a Security Specialist with the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center

The United States Air Force offers some of the most dynamic and consequential career paths in the world. As a Security Specialist (NH-03), you will occupy a critical space between technical expertise and national defense. This role is designed for professionals who thrive in environments requiring meticulous attention to detail, high-level security clearance management, and a commitment to protecting Airpower initiatives.

Job Responsibilities

As a Security Specialist, your duties are multifaceted and essential to mission success. You will serve as the Government SAP Security Officer (GSSO), which includes:

Compliance and Inspection: Leading self-inspections and formal audits of contractor facilities.
Access Management: Controlling personnel access and managing visitor security programs.
Policy Implementation: Developing and directing security activities to ensure alignment with Department of Defense (DoD) and Air Force regulations.
Incident Investigation: Managing security violations and conducting investigations to mitigate operational risks.

Role Comparison Table

Feature	Security Specialist (GSSO)
Primary Goal	Protect sensitive acquisition programs
Key Authority	Manage SCIF security & compliance
Collaboration	AFOSI, Contractors, and DoD partners
Career Level	NH-03 (GS-12/13 Equivalent)

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate substantial experience in the security field. You must be a U.S. citizen and hold or be eligible to obtain a Top Secret clearance. At least one year of specialized experience at a level equivalent to GS-11 is mandatory. This experience should involve program protection, physical security, or information systems security.

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive federal salary ranging from $76,463 to $118,204 per year. Compensation is structured within an acquisition demonstration project (NH-03), allowing for growth based on performance and mission impact.

Benefits

Federal employees enjoy an extensive benefits package designed to support both professional and personal well-being. This includes:

Comprehensive Health Insurance
Pension/Retirement (FERS)
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with matching
Paid Time Off and Federal Holidays
Career Advancement Programs

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly state your hours worked and specific duties related to security management.
Mind the Limits: Keep your resume strictly to two pages.
Submit Early: Don't wait until the final hour; document uploads can sometimes take time to process.

Serving as a Security Specialist for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center is more than a job; it is a commitment to the safety and success of our nation. With competitive pay, robust benefits, and a mission that matters, this position is a fantastic opportunity for experienced security professionals. Apply today to contribute to global airpower.

Why This Security Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job Matters

Protect national security as a critical Subject Matter Expert for the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center. Join our elite team of Special Access Program (SAP) specialists and shape the security landscape of cutting-edge defense technology.

Security Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job Overview

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center is seeking highly skilled Security Specialists to serve as Government SAP Security Officers (GSSO). In this mission-critical role, you will provide expert technical oversight, manage personnel access, ensure physical and technical security of Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs), and lead rigorous compliance inspections. You will act as the primary security advisor to leadership, ensuring all programs meet stringent regulatory standards while facilitating the seamless integration of security policies across the Air Force.

Requirements for Security Specialist-Direct Hire Authority

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Minimum of one year (52 weeks) of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Expertise in managing and implementing organizational-level security programs (information, personnel, industrial, or physical).
Comprehensive knowledge of Special Access Programs (SAP) and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security policies.
Must be able to pass a drug test.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/Special Access Required (SAR) security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Security Specialist-Direct Hire Authority

Direct experience as a Government SAP Security Officer (GSSO).
Strong background in working with Defense Industrial Base security operations.
Proven track record of managing security audits, inspections, and incident investigations.
Experience in government contractual practices for USAF acquisition programs.
Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for leadership briefings.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
✓Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) pension plan.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
✓Access to a wide range of work-life balance programs.

💡 How to Apply Security Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Security Specialist-Direct Hire Authority Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, ensuring it lists hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
Complete the online application questionnaire.
Upload required documents, including transcripts if education is used to qualify.
Submit your complete application package by the closing date of September 23, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly highlights your specific experience with SAP/SCI programs as described in the job duties.
Follow the two-page limit strictly; any resume exceeding this will not be considered.
Verify your documents via your USAJOBS dashboard after submission.
Current federal employees should explicitly list their pay plan, series, and grade.
Remove personal information such as social security numbers or photographs from your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary role of a Security Specialist at this center?

You will act as a GSSO, providing technical oversight for security protocols, managing facility security, and ensuring program compliance for sensitive Air Force missions.

Can I apply if I am a current federal employee?

Yes, current federal employees are encouraged to apply. Please include your pay plan, series, and grade in your resume to ensure proper consideration.

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary range for this position is $76,463 to $118,204 per year, depending on qualifications and location.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: Yes, the position allows for relocation considerations. Please consult the specific job posting details for eligibility.*

What is the significance of the 120-day roster?

*A: This allows applicants to reach the required 52 weeks of experience within 120 days of the announcement closing date.*

Job from Air Force Materiel Command

The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) is part of the Air Force Materiel Command. Its core mission is to provide global vigilance and power through superior technology. By joining this organization, you become part of a legacy of excellence, integrity, and service, working to ensure that our personnel and systems remain secure against any threat.