Advance Your Career as a Senior Physical Security Specialist with the DOJ OIG
Are you a seasoned security professional looking for a high-impact role at the heart of the federal government? The Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is currently accepting applications for a Physical Security Specialist (Senior) in Washington, D.C. This GS-14 role offers the chance to lead vital security initiatives for one of the most respected components within the Department of Justice.
About the Office of the Inspector General
The DOJ OIG is responsible for conducting audits, investigations, and special reviews of DOJ programs and personnel. Known as one of the best places to work in the federal government, the OIG values professional integrity, employee engagement, and work-life balance. Joining the Management and Planning Division means contributing to an agency that is essential to the fair and impartial administration of justice in America.
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Physical Security Specialist, you will wear many hats, from policy advisor to project manager. Your core duties will include:
- Risk Mitigation: Conduct comprehensive risk, vulnerability, and facility security assessments.
- Contract Management: Serve as a Contracting Officerβs Representative (COR) for major IDIQ contracts, drafting SOWs, IGCEs, and technical requirements.
- Emergency Planning: Develop and evaluate Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Occupant Emergency Programs (OEP).
- Infrastructure Design: Ensure security compliance in new construction, renovations, and lease acquisitions, including locking hardware specifications.
- Readiness Reviews: Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to conduct emergency preparedness exercises and generate actionable After-Action Reports.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-14 role, you must demonstrate the following:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | One year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level |
| Clearance | Ability to obtain and maintain Top Secret clearance |
| Assessment | Mandatory completion of USAHire Competency Assessment |
| Resume | Strict 2-page limit |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Employees also benefit from the robust federal benefits package, which includes competitive health insurance, retirement planning (FERS), and flexible work/telework arrangements.
Application Tips
- Follow Formatting Rules: The two-page resume limit is non-negotiable. Ensure every word adds value.
- Assessment Prep: You will be required to take the USAHire assessment. Block out at least three hours of uninterrupted time for this.
- Detail Your Experience: Clearly articulate your work with government contracting (SOWs, RFIs, RFQs) as this is a key competency for the role.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I update my application after I submit it? A: Yes, you can edit your application and documentation via the USAJOBS portal until the announcement closes.
Q: What if I have a disability? A: The DOJ is committed to providing reasonable accommodations. Please review the instructions for requesting assistance during the online assessment phase.
If you possess the technical expertise and leadership skills to maintain the physical security of critical federal facilities, this role at the DOJ OIG offers the perfect platform to elevate your federal career. Apply by July 14, 2026, to ensure your application is considered.
Why This Physical Security Specialist (Senior) Job Matters
Protect the integrity of the Department of Justice by leading high-level security initiatives for the Office of the Inspector General.
Physical Security Specialist (Senior) Job Overview
The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) at the Department of Justice is seeking a seasoned Physical Security Specialist (Senior) to join its Management and Planning Division. In this critical role, you will safeguard personnel, facilities, and sensitive assets through expert risk assessments, emergency preparedness planning, and technical oversight. This GS-14 position offers a unique opportunity to shape the security posture of a premier federal agency within a collaborative and high-achieving environment.
Requirements for Physical Security Specialist (Senior)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
- Must complete the USAHire Competency Based Assessment.
- Must register with the Selective Service if applicable.
- Resume must not exceed two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Physical Security Specialist (Senior)
- Extensive experience in conducting facility security risk and vulnerability assessments.
- Background in managing complex security acquisitions and IDIQ contracts.
- Proficiency in Continuity of Operations (COOP) and Occupant Emergency Program (OEP) development.
- Technical knowledge of ASTM and BHMA/ANSI A156.30 locking hardware standards.
- Strong project management skills, including budgeting, scheduling, and technical oversight.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βComprehensive federal health insurance options.
- βGenerous retirement plans including FERS.
- βFlexible work schedules and telework eligibility.
- βOpportunities for continuous professional growth.
- βWork-life balance initiatives.
π‘ How to Apply Physical Security Specialist (Senior) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Physical Security Specialist (Senior) Job
- Review the full announcement and prepare a resume limited to two pages.
- Click the Apply Online button on the USAJobs portal.
- Submit your resume and supporting documentation (SF-50, veterans' preference, etc.).
- Complete the required USAHire Competency Based Assessment within the designated timeframe.
- Monitor your email for status updates and assessment links.
- Check your application status via your USAJobs account.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; exceeding this will result in disqualification.
- Double-check your email spam folder for assessment links from the USAHire system.
- Tailor your resume to highlight specialized experience, particularly your work with SOWs, RFIs, and facility security.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the USAHire assessment in a quiet environment.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance level for this position?
This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Can I substitute education for the required work experience?
No, there is no substitution of education for the required specialized experience permitted for this role.
What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?
If your resume exceeds the two-page limit, you will be automatically removed from consideration.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, depending on agency requirements and specific position duties.
