Become a Personnel Security Specialist with the TSA

Are you looking for a career that combines public service with high-level analytical work? The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is currently hiring a Personnel Security Specialist in Springfield, Virginia. This role is essential to our national security mission, ensuring that individuals in critical roles meet the highest standards of integrity and fitness.

Job Responsibilities

As a Personnel Security Specialist, your daily tasks will revolve around safeguarding national interests through rigorous security vetting. Your duties will include:

Evaluating security forms to identify derogatory information.
Adjudicating complex background investigation reports.
Interpreting and applying federal adjudicative guidelines.
Communicating with field offices to resolve security requirements.
Preparing formal correspondence such as case summaries and notifications of adverse actions.

Band Level	Focus Area
SV-F (GS-9 equiv)	Entry/Mid-level administrative support and training.
SV-G (GS-11 equiv)	Independent guidance and policy interpretation.
SV-H (GS-12 equiv)	Technical expertise and lead decision-making.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens at least 18 years of age. You must be able to pass a rigorous background investigation and maintain a Top Secret clearance. We look for candidates with specialized experience in security administration or relevant educational achievements that demonstrate a capacity for high-level analytical work.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range starting from $69,789 up to $131,571 per year, depending on the specific pay band (F, G, or H) and your qualifications.

Benefits

Joining the DHS comes with a robust federal benefits package, including:

Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid holidays and generous leave accrual.
Tuition assistance and career development opportunities.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Focus on quantifiable achievements and ensure you include specific start and end dates.
Check Your Length: Your resume must not exceed two pages.
Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified after submission.

Serving as a Personnel Security Specialist is a unique opportunity to contribute to the safety of the American public. If you meet the requirements and are ready to tackle the challenges of a critical-sensitive security role, we encourage you to apply today via the official USAJOBS platform.

Why This Personnel Security Specialist Job Matters

Join the front lines of national security with the Transportation Security Administration. Play a pivotal role in protecting the nation’s infrastructure as a Personnel Security Specialist.

Personnel Security Specialist Job Overview

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is seeking dedicated professionals to join the Chief Security Office. In this role, you will perform vital work in the Personnel Security Section, ensuring that the individuals entrusted with our nation's transportation security meet the highest standards of reliability and integrity. You will manage complex caseloads, adjudicate background investigations, and contribute directly to the safety of our country's travel infrastructure.

Requirements for Personnel Security Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Minimum age of 18 at time of application
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
Successful completion of a favorable Background Investigation
Successful passage of pre- and post-employment drug screening
Registration with Selective Service (if applicable)
Submission of a resume limited to two pages
Ability to meet the qualification standards by the vacancy closing date

Preferred Qualifications for Personnel Security Specialist

Specialized experience in personnel security administration, such as initiating or adjudicating clearance requests
Proficiency in utilizing Office of Personnel Management (OPM) security systems
Demonstrated experience in rendering suitability, fitness, and clearance eligibility decisions
Advanced education including a Master’s degree, J.D., or Ph.D. in a related field
Strong technical skills in managing security databases and preparing incident reports

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Life and long-term care insurance options
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
✓Generous personal leave and paid federal holidays
✓Telework and flexible work schedule opportunities
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development programs
✓Fitness center access and wellness initiatives

💡 How to Apply Personnel Security Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Personnel Security Specialist Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your two-page resume.
Complete the online application and the vacancy questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and SF-50s if applicable.
Submit your application package before the closing date.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding USA Hire Assessments.
Complete the required assessments within the provided timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly states the number of hours worked per week for each position.
Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for the best results.
Do not copy and paste the job announcement text into your resume; provide a unique narrative of your duties.
Highlight your accomplishments, not just your job description.
Set aside two uninterrupted hours for the USA Hire Assessments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security clearance level required for this position?

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

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, depending on agency policy and requirements.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, your resume must be limited to exactly two pages; the system will not accept applications that exceed this limit.

What is the work location?

This position is located in Springfield, Virginia.

Do I need a degree to qualify?

While specialized experience is often preferred, educational achievements can substitute for experience in certain pay bands.

Job from Transportation Security Administration

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Our mission is to protect the nation's transportation systems—including airports, seaports, and transit—to ensure freedom of movement for people and commerce. Working at the TSA means joining a community dedicated to excellence, integrity, and proactive security.