Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Security Specialist with the FDA

Are you seeking a meaningful role where your skills in security and compliance directly contribute to public health and safety? The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a critical component of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is extending an invitation to dedicated professionals to join their ranks as Security Specialists. This is an exceptional opportunity to become part of an agency that touches the lives of every American, ensuring the safety and efficacy of the nation's food and drug supply.

About the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)

The FDA is at the forefront of protecting the health of citizens by ensuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines, and other biological products, as well as the safety of our nation's food supply, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is the U.S. government's principal agency for protecting the health of all Americans and providing essential human services, especially for those least able to help themselves. Joining HHS means making a tangible difference in the lives of people across the country and beyond.

Within HHS, the Office of Operations (OO) plays a vital role in supporting the FDA's mission. Specifically, the Office of Security and Passport Operations (OSPO) is responsible for critical security functions, including the issuance of official and diplomatic passports, visa processing, and managing country clearances. The OSPO Passport Operations Branch is committed to providing these essential services efficiently and courteously, supporting the FDA's extensive travel requirements.

The Role of a Security Specialist

As a Security Specialist within the OSPO, you will be instrumental in maintaining the integrity and security of sensitive operations. Your responsibilities will be diverse and crucial, requiring a keen eye for detail and a strong adherence to regulations. Key duties include:

• Coordinating Security Functions: Working closely with senior staff and colleagues to execute security-related tasks that are often of a confidential, highly sensitive, or classified nature.
• Ensuring Compliance: Assisting senior specialists in developing and implementing robust identity, credential, and access management services, ensuring strict adherence to prescribed federal regulations, mandates, and procedures.
• Policy and Procedure Support: Providing valuable input into the creation and refinement of communication documents, presentations, and meetings related to security protocols.
• Risk Management and Assessment: Participating in or supporting on-site security inspections and facility assessments to identify vulnerabilities, ensure compliance with security standards, and recommend corrective actions.
• Identity and Access Management: Supporting the implementation and evaluation of programs related to Personal Identity Verification (PIV), identity credentialing, and personnel vetting activities.

Qualifications and Requirements

To be considered for this Security Specialist position at the GS-9 grade level, candidates must meet specific qualifications. The closing date for applications is August 3, 2026.

Minimum Qualifications:

Candidates must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 level in the federal service. This experience should demonstrate proficiency in:

• Identity and Access Management: Assisting with or performing duties related to Personal Identity Verification (PIV) programs, identity credentialing, or personnel vetting activities (e.g., sponsorship, enrollment, verification) in compliance with federal standards.
• Security Inspections and Risk Management: Participating in or supporting security inspections, facility assessments, or risk management activities to evaluate compliance and identify security vulnerabilities.
• Policy Development: Assisting in the development, implementation, or evaluation of security policies, procedures, or Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for physical, personnel, or information security.

Alternative Qualifications:

Alternatively, applicants may qualify with:

• A Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree.
• Two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education leading to a Master's degree.
• An LL.B. or J.D. degree, if the degree is directly related to the position.
• A combination of specialized experience and graduate education (where graduate education beyond the first year is credited) that totals 100% of the qualification requirement.

Key Competencies:

While not separate responses, your resume should demonstrate proficiency in:

• Information Assurance Compliance Inspection
• Oral Communication

Special Note on Education: Transcripts are required if you are using education to qualify. Ensure you submit official or unofficial transcripts, or a list of courses with grades and completion dates. Foreign education must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency.

Salary Overview

This Security Specialist position is classified at the GS-09 grade level. The annual salary range for this position is $52,727 to $68,549, depending on qualifications and experience.

Comprehensive Benefits Package

As a federal employee, you are eligible for a robust benefits package designed to support your well-being and professional growth. While specific details may vary, federal benefits typically include:

• Health Insurance: Comprehensive coverage through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
• Retirement Savings: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), including a government contribution to your Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave (vacation), sick leave, and federal holidays.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Other Potential Incentives: Depending on circumstances and funding, incentives such as relocation expenses, recruitment or relocation bonuses, and student loan repayment programs may be authorized, often requiring a service agreement.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and advancement within the federal government.

How to Apply

To apply for this exciting opportunity, follow these steps:

1. USAJOBS Account: Log in to your existing USAJOBS account or create a new one.
2. Application Submission: Click the 'Apply Online' button and proceed through the application process. This includes completing the assessment questionnaire.
3. Resume: Prepare and upload a detailed federal-style resume. Ensure it includes your name, address, employer names, start and end dates (month/day/year), work schedule (hours per week), salary, and a thorough description of duties performed for each position.
4. Supporting Documents: Upload all required documents as listed in the 'Required Documents' section. This may include transcripts, SF-50s, or other eligibility verifications. Ensure files are readable.
5. Optional Essays: Respond to the optional essay questions if you wish. Certify that your responses are your own work.
6. Submit: Complete and submit your entire application package, including all documentation, before the closing date of August 3, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Important Note: Applications cannot be modified or updated after the closing deadline. It is highly recommended to start the application process early.

Application Tips for Success

• Read Carefully: Thoroughly review the entire job announcement, paying special attention to the 'Qualifications', 'Requirements', and 'Required Documents' sections.
• Detailed Resume: Craft a comprehensive federal resume. Be explicit about your experiences, responsibilities, and accomplishments. Use keywords from the job description.
• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to illustrate the impact of your work.
• Proofread: Ensure your resume and all submitted documents are free of errors.
• Early Application: Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical difficulties.
• Document Readiness: Have all necessary supporting documents ready and in an accessible, readable format.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question	Answer
What is the grade level for this Security Specialist position?	This position is for the GS-09 grade level.
What are the primary duties of a Security Specialist?	The role involves coordinating security functions of a confidential nature, ensuring compliance with regulations for identity, credential, and access management, and contributing to the development of security policies and procedures.
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. citizen?	Federal employment typically requires U.S. citizenship. Please verify your specific eligibility based on the announcement details and your individual circumstances.
What is the salary range for this position?	The annual salary range is $52,727 to $68,549.
Are there multiple locations for this position?	Yes, this position is available in numerous locations across the U.S., including Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Tennessee, Texas, and Washington.
Is drug testing required for this position?	Yes, this is a Drug Testing Designated position. Applicants tentatively selected must undergo urinalysis for illegal drug use prior to appointment and are subject to random testing after hiring.
What documentation is needed for current federal employees?	Current federal employees must submit their most recent SF-50 demonstrating competitive service status, grade, promotion potential, and other required details. An SF-50 showing time-in-grade for higher-grade applications may also be necessary.
What is the security clearance requirement?	A "Secret" security clearance is required for this position.

| What is the telework policy for this role? | This position is listed as telework-eligible, but specific arrangements will depend on agency needs and supervisor approval. |

The Security Specialist position at the FDA offers a challenging and rewarding career path for individuals dedicated to safeguarding sensitive information and operations. By joining the Food and Drug Administration, you become part of a vital mission to protect public health. If you possess the required skills and a commitment to service, we encourage you to apply and contribute to the critical work of the FDA.