Launch Your Career in National Security: Personnel Security Specialist at TSA

Are you looking for a career that serves the public good while working in a challenging, high-stakes environment? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA), a vital component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is currently seeking talented individuals to join the team as a Personnel Security Specialist in Springfield, Virginia. This role is essential for maintaining the security and integrity of the agency that protects our nation’s transportation systems.

Job Responsibilities

The core function of this role is to manage the personnel security process. This includes:

Adjudication: Evaluating background investigation reports to determine eligibility for security clearances and employment suitability.
Security Review: Examining security forms for derogatory information and making determinations regarding federal employment access.
Caseload Management: Maintaining records, metrics, and timelines for assigned security cases.
Policy Guidance: Providing technical expertise on personnel security procedures to internal stakeholders.

Comparison of Pay Bands

Band	Responsibility Level	Experience Requirement
SV-F	Entry/Intermediate	1 year specialized experience (GS-7/8 level)
SV-G	Intermediate	1 year specialized experience (GS-9 level)
SV-H	Full Performance	1 year specialized experience (GS-11 level)

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet several key criteria:

You must be a U.S. citizen.
You must be at least 18 years old.
You must pass a rigorous Background Investigation.
You must be capable of obtaining and maintaining a Top Secret clearance.
You must pass mandatory drug testing.

Salary Overview

This position offers a highly competitive salary range starting at $69,789 and extending up to $131,571 annually, depending on the specific pay band and the successful candidate's experience level.

Benefits

DHS provides a robust benefits package, including comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) to help build your retirement, and paid federal holidays. Employees also enjoy flexible work schedules and professional development programs.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Clearly document your specialized experience, including month/year and hours worked.
Upload All Documents: Missing transcripts or SF-50 forms are common reasons for disqualification.
Follow Directions: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long; submissions exceeding this limit will not be processed.

Serving as a Personnel Security Specialist at the TSA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and security of the United States. If you possess the attention to detail, integrity, and analytical skills required for this role, we encourage you to submit your application and begin your journey with the Department of Homeland Security.

Why This Personnel Security Specialist Job Matters

Protect our nation's infrastructure and safeguard freedom of movement as a Personnel Security Specialist with the Transportation Security Administration.

Personnel Security Specialist Job Overview

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is seeking dedicated professionals to join the Chief Security Office in Springfield, Virginia. As a Personnel Security Specialist, you will play a vital role in national security by evaluating background investigations, adjudicating security clearance eligibility, and ensuring that TSA maintains a trustworthy and reliable workforce. This position offers the chance to make a tangible impact on the security of our nation's transportation systems.

Requirements for Personnel Security Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be at least 18 years of age.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Completion of a favorable Background Investigation is required.
Selective Service registration if applicable.
Must successfully pass pre-employment and post-employment drug testing.

Preferred Qualifications for Personnel Security Specialist

Experience in adjudicating security clearances and suitability determinations.
Proficiency in utilizing Office of Personnel Management (OPM) systems.
Expertise in providing technical guidance on personnel security policies.
Proven ability to manage complex security caseloads and meet strict timelines.
Strong background in security administration, including incident reporting and database management.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Life and long-term care insurance
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
✓Flexible Spending Accounts
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Telework and flexible work schedule opportunities
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development training
✓Fitness center access

💡 How to Apply Personnel Security Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Personnel Security Specialist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume limited to two pages, including specific dates and hours worked.
Submit your application online through the provided portal.
Complete the required USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments if prompted.
Submit all required documentation, including transcripts or SF-50 forms, by the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes detailed descriptions of your duties with specific start and end dates (month/year).
Clearly indicate if your work experience was full-time or part-time (including hours per week).
Do not copy and paste the job announcement text into your resume; focus on your own experience.
Double-check that all required supporting documents are uploaded before the deadline.
Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for best results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

The Personnel Security Specialist is responsible for reviewing security forms, adjudicating background investigations, and determining suitability for TSA employment to ensure the highest standards of national security.

Are there opportunities for remote work?

The position is telework-eligible, though candidates must report to the location in Springfield, Virginia, as required.

What level of security clearance is required?

This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Is a degree required?

*A: While education can supplement your experience, the primary focus is on specialized personnel security experience. Please refer to the specific pay band requirements for details on using education as a qualification.*

What is the work location?

*A: This position is based in Springfield, Virginia.*

Job from Transportation Security Administration

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) leads the unified national effort to secure America. Within DHS, the TSA serves as the first line of defense for the nation's transportation networks. As a Personnel Security Specialist, you will be part of the Chief Security Office, where your work will directly influence the safety and security of the country.