Become a Security Specialist with the Defense Health Agency
Are you looking to transition your career into a high-impact federal role? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently hiring a Security Specialist in San Antonio, Texas. This position is a perfect fit for professionals with a background in security administration who are ready to support the critical medical missions of the Department of Defense.
Job Responsibilities
As a Security Specialist, you will act as a guardian of our internal integrity. Key responsibilities include:
- Personnel Security: Initiating and managing security investigations (PSI).
- Access Management: Making initial security access determinations.
- System Administration: Overseeing electronic application (eAPP) systems and the Secure Web Fingerprint Transmission (SWFT) process.
- Liaison Duties: Collaborating with the Central Adjudications Facility regarding due process, suspensions, and information requests.
- PIV Coordination: Managing aspects of the Personal Identification Verification system.
Comparison: Experience vs. Education Eligibility
| Qualification Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Specialized Experience | 1 Year at GS-09 level (or equivalent) |
| Education | PhD or 3 years of graduate study |
| Combination | Both education and experience (must total 100%) |
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must be U.S. citizens and meet strict specialized experience or education requirements. Applicants must provide detailed resumes that clearly link their past work to the core competencies listed in the announcement, such as attention to detail, decision-making, and integrity.
Salary Overview
This position is graded at the GS-11 level, with an annual salary range of $75,776 to $98,514. Salary is determined based on experience and applicable locality pay.
Benefits
Working for the federal government comes with unparalleled benefits, including:
- Robust health insurance options.
- Retirement and pension plans (FERS).
- Potential for student loan repayment.
- Professional development and growth opportunities.
Application Tips
- Keep it Brief: Your resume cannot exceed two pages. Prioritize impact over filler.
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience. Instead of saying you handled investigations, list how many or what type.
- Follow Procedures: The application requires online assessments. Don't ignore these if invited via email.
If you have a passion for security administration and want to serve those who serve our country, this role with the Defense Health Agency offers a clear path forward. Apply today to secure your future.
Why This Security Specialist Job Matters
Protect national interests as a Security Specialist with the Defense Health Agency—a vital role ensuring the safety and integrity of our medical support systems.
Security Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a dedicated Security Specialist to join our team in San Antonio, Texas. This position is essential for maintaining the security infrastructure that protects our healthcare services for military members and their families. You will handle sensitive personnel security investigations, coordinate security clearance processing, and oversee identity verification systems in a fast-paced government environment.
Requirements for Security Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Completion of a 1-year probationary period.
- Must live within or relocate to a commutable distance of San Antonio, TX.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level (or equivalent).
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements if previously employed in the Federal service.
- Selective Service registration for male applicants born after 1959.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Security Specialist
- Possession of a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in fields like Criminal Justice, Law Enforcement, or National Security.
- Three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education in relevant fields.
- Proven experience with personnel security investigations and adjudications.
- Familiarity with eAPP, SWFT, and PIV systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Career Advancement Opportunities
- ✓Comprehensive Health and Wellness Programs
- ✓Potential Student Loan Repayment Programs
- ✓Negotiable Leave Accrual for New Federal Employees
- ✓Direct Deposit Payroll
💡 How to Apply Security Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Security Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather necessary documentation including transcripts and proof of eligibility.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete the required questionnaire.
- Submit all materials via the USAJobs portal by the deadline.
- Monitor email for notifications regarding potential USA Hire assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes clear start/end dates and the number of hours worked per week for each role.
- Use plain, clear language and avoid jargon or internal acronyms.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical delays.
- Clearly document your specialized experience to match the GS-09 level requirements.
- If claiming preference eligibility (e.g., Military Spouse or VEOA), ensure all supporting documentation is uploaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this position is located in San Antonio, Texas, and requires the selected candidate to live within a commutable distance of the duty station.
What is the page limit for the resume?
Resumes must be two pages or less. Applications exceeding this limit will not be considered.
Are recruitment incentives available?
Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates at the agency's discretion.
What is the security clearance for this role?
*A: This position requires a Secret security clearance.*
Can I negotiate my salary?
*A: Salary negotiation may be available for candidates new to federal service.*
Job from Defense Health Agency
The Defense Health Agency is a vital component of the Department of Defense. We operate as an integrated healthcare system, delivering essential medical, dental, and pharmaceutical services to over 9.5 million service members, retirees, and their families. Our mission is to improve health outcomes and maintain operational readiness, anytime and anywhere.