Security Assistant: A Critical Role in Protecting Our Veterans

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) plays a pivotal role in honoring the commitment to those who served in our military. Behind every clinical service provided to our Veterans is a robust administrative and security infrastructure that ensures our facilities remain safe, secure, and efficient. The Security Assistant position is at the heart of this infrastructure, serving as a gateway for personnel compliance and protection.

Job Responsibilities

As a Security Assistant, your duties are split between personnel security and administrative support. Your core responsibilities include:

Personnel Security: Initiating and monitoring background investigations through e-QIP, reviewing risk sensitivity levels, and tracking suitability issues.
Credentialing & PIV: Managing the lifecycle of Personal Identity Verification (PIV) cards, capturing biometrics, and providing technical guidance to staff.
Records & Audits: Conducting audits of personnel files to ensure compliance with privacy laws and federal security regulations.

Comparison Table: Daily Focus

Task Type	Focus Area	Impact
Security	Background Investigations	Ensures workforce safety
Administrative	PIV Card Management	Maintains operational access
Compliance	Audits & Documentation	Protects sensitive federal data

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet strict federal qualifications, including U.S. citizenship and the ability to pass a background check. You must also adhere to the two-page resume limit and ensure all required documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $63,081 to $82,007 per year, commensurate with the GS-7 pay scale for the San Francisco area, reflecting the responsibility and technical nature of the security work performed.

Benefits

Employees of the VA enjoy robust federal benefits, including:

Stable career growth opportunities within the federal government.
Annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Health and life insurance options.
Participation in the federal retirement system.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Use the language found in the job announcement to describe your experience.
PDF Formatting: Always submit your resume as a PDF to ensure the two-page limit is visually preserved.
Include SF-50: If you are a current or former federal employee, provide the correct SF-50 to prove time-in-grade.

Serving as a Security Assistant with the Veterans Health Administration is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of protecting our Veterans' care environments. If you are detail-oriented and ready to contribute to a noble cause, apply today through the official USAJOBS platform.

Why This Security Assistant Job Matters

Launch a vital career protecting those who serve. Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Security Assistant in the heart of San Francisco.

Security Assistant Job Overview

The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Security Assistant to support the Personnel Security Program. In this role, you will be a key contributor to maintaining the integrity and safety of our workforce by managing security clearances, suitability investigations, and PIV credentialing. You will serve as the primary point of contact for new appointees, ensuring that all volunteers, staff, and contractors meet the necessary federal security standards to protect our nation's Veterans.

Requirements for Security Assistant

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass a background and security investigation.
Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period.
Compliance with the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program for healthcare personnel.
Must adhere to the 2-page resume limit requirement.

Preferred Qualifications for Security Assistant

Experience in initiating and reviewing background investigations.
Proficiency in database management and data entry.
Strong interpersonal skills for communicating security protocols.
Previous experience with PIV card issuance and lifecycle management.
Attention to detail in auditing official personnel records.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal benefits package
✓Annual leave accrual based on service years
✓Opportunities for professional development
✓Supportive work-life balance environment
✓Access to a wide network of VA healthcare facilities

💡 How to Apply Security Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Security Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review your resume to ensure it is 2 pages or less and follows the provided formatting guidelines.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your resume and all required documentation (SF-50s, transcripts, etc.) through the USAJOBS portal.
Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is saved as a PDF to preserve formatting.
Use clear, results-focused language that mirrors the keywords in the job announcement.
Submit your application well before the cutoff dates to account for potential technical issues.
Double-check that your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one-year time-in-grade eligibility.
Ensure all contact information is accurate and professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of this Security Assistant role?

You will support the Personnel Security Program by managing background investigation requests, processing PIV identification cards, and conducting audits to ensure compliance with federal suitability regulations.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this is an onsite position located in San Francisco, California.

What is the resume length requirement?

Per the Merit Hiring Plan, resumes must be two pages or less. Applications with longer resumes will not be considered.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." As an employee of the VHA, you join a mission-driven organization that values compassion, integrity, and excellence. Working in San Francisco, you will be part of a diverse, high-impact team supporting the health and well-being of the nation's heroes.