Launch Your Career as a Personnel Security Specialist at the FTC
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is currently seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented professional to fill the role of Personnel Security Specialist. Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the agency's dual mission of protecting consumers and promoting competition by ensuring that the individuals entrusted with these tasks meet the highest security and suitability standards.
Job Responsibilities
As a Personnel Security Specialist, you will be the backbone of the agency's security operations. Your primary duties will include:
- Reviewing position sensitivity designations to ensure accuracy.
- Conducting security orientation briefings for new hires.
- Liaising with investigative service providers to monitor background investigation statuses.
- Evaluating reports to determine individual suitability for sensitive positions.
- Preparing written interrogatories for security clearances or adverse employment actions.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-09 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
| Qualification Type | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Education | Master's degree or two years of progressively higher-level graduate study. |
| Experience | One year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-07 in personnel security. |
| Combination | A mix of post-baccalaureate education and professional experience. |
Salary Overview
The salary range for this position is $70,623 – $91,815 per year, commensurate with your experience and qualifications as determined by federal pay scales.
Benefits
Working for the FTC comes with a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Participation in federal retirement plans.
- Flexible leave and vacation policies.
- Opportunities for ongoing professional training in security administration.
Application Tips
Ensure your federal resume is comprehensive. Unlike private sector resumes, federal applications require granular detail regarding hours worked per week and specific achievements. Don't forget to attach your transcripts if you are using education as a qualifying factor.
If you are ready to apply your analytical skills to secure the operations of a vital federal agency, the FTC is the place for you. Submit your application today via the official USAJOBS portal.
Why This Personnel Security Specialist Job Matters
Launch a high-impact career in federal security with the FTC—where your investigative expertise directly safeguards the integrity of the American economy.
Personnel Security Specialist Job Overview
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is seeking a detail-oriented Personnel Security Specialist to join the Human Capital Management Office. In this role, you will play a vital part in maintaining the agency's security posture by managing personnel suitability, fitness, and security eligibility programs. You will be responsible for navigating sensitive background investigations, coordinating with federal partners, and ensuring that FTC staff meet the rigorous security standards required to protect consumer interests and promote fair market competition.
Requirements for Personnel Security Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Master's or equivalent graduate degree OR two full years of progressively higher-level graduate education (or LL.B./J.D.).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-07 level in the Federal service.
- Combined education and experience that equals 100% of qualification requirements.
- Ability to pass a background investigation for a Critical-Sensitive (CS)/High Risk position.
Preferred Qualifications for Personnel Security Specialist
- Proven experience reviewing and processing personnel security investigation requests.
- Background in establishing or maintaining security policies and procedural rosters.
- Demonstrated ability to evaluate investigative reports to make adjudicative recommendations.
- Familiarity with OPM liaison processes for background investigation packages.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and specialized security training.
- ✓Telework eligibility as per agency policy.
- ✓Work-life balance with federal holiday and leave programs.
💡 How to Apply Personnel Security Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Personnel Security Specialist Job
- Register for an account on USAJOBS if you do not have one.
- Prepare your federal resume ensuring it includes work hours, dates, and detailed duties.
- Gather supporting documentation such as college transcripts or military service records (DD-214).
- Click the apply button on the USAJOBS portal to initiate the application process.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all required documents and submit before the closing date of August 28, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties listed in the job announcement.
- Submit your documentation early to allow time for the system's virus scan process.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Use your cover letter to highlight specific achievements in security adjudication.
- Verify that your transcripts are legible if using education to qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of security clearance is required for this role?
This position requires a Top Secret security clearance and is designated as a Critical-Sensitive/High Risk position.
Is telework available for this position?
Yes, this position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.
What should I include in my resume to be considered?
You must include your work schedule, hours worked per week, specific dates of employment, and a detailed description of the duties performed to verify your experience level.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this role requires a Top Secret clearance.
When does the job announcement close?
The closing date is August 28, 2026.
Job from Federal Trade Commission
The FTC is a bipartisan federal agency that has spent over a century championing the interests of American consumers. By challenging anti-competitive mergers and business practices, the agency ensures that markets remain innovative and fair. Joining the FTC means becoming part of a collegial, consensus-driven environment that values integrity, innovation, and public service.