Information Security Specialist: Serve Your Country with the Illinois National Guard

The Army National Guard provides a unique opportunity to serve your state and nation through a career that balances civilian expertise with military support missions. We are currently looking for a detail-oriented Information Security Specialist (Title 5) to join our team in Springfield, Illinois. If you have a background in security administration and a commitment to excellence, this role offers a stable career path with a significant impact on national security.

Job Responsibilities

As the Information Security (INFOSEC) Specialist and Industrial Security Program (ISP) Manager, you will serve as a subject matter expert. Your core duties include:

Implementing and interpreting security policy and regulations.
Managing the INFOSEC and ISP programs for the state.
Developing and conducting security education and awareness training.
Overseeing the construction and certification of secure rooms for classified storage.
Conducting assessments to ensure compliance with DoD security standards.

Feature	Details
Position Title	Information Security Specialist
Grade	GS-11
Salary Range	$74,678 - $97,087
Location	Springfield, IL
Security Clearance	Top Secret

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-11 role, candidates must demonstrate:

One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level.
Ability to obtain a Top Secret clearance.
Commitment to completing the ARNG Security Manager Course.
Compliance with the Lautenberg Amendment regarding domestic violence policies.

Salary Overview

This position is compensated within the GS-11 pay scale, offering a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 per annum, depending on qualifications and step increases.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a robust benefits package, including:

Competitive medical and dental insurance plans.
Federal retirement contributions (FERS).
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Direct support for professional certifications like the SFPC.

Application Tips

Your Resume Matters: Clearly detail your security-related experience, including the exact dates (month/year) and hours worked.
Avoid Verbatim Copying: Do not copy language from this announcement into your resume; provide concrete examples of your work.
Check Your Status: Log in to your USAJOBS account regularly to verify that your application has been processed and to check for updates.

Serving as an Information Security Specialist with the Illinois National Guard is more than just a job; it is a vital contribution to the security of our state and nation. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a challenging role in security management, submit your application today.

Why This Information Security Specialist (Title 5) Job Matters

Protect the nation's critical infrastructure as an Information Security Specialist with the Illinois National Guard. Lead security operations in a vital, high-stakes role.

Information Security Specialist (Title 5) Job Overview

The Army National Guard is seeking an experienced professional to serve as an Information Security Specialist and Industrial Security Program Manager in Springfield, Illinois. This is a Title 5 Excepted Service role within the Department of the Army, where you will manage essential security programs, oversee sensitive compartmented information, and advise leadership on national security protocols.

Requirements for Information Security Specialist (Title 5)

Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 grade level or equivalent
Must attend the ARNG Security Manager Course within 12 months of hire
Must obtain the Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) within 24 months of hire
Must be compliant with the Lautenberg Amendment (no domestic violence convictions)
Must meet Selective Service registration requirements for males born after 12/31/1959

Preferred Qualifications for Information Security Specialist (Title 5)

Proven background in Special Security Office (SSO) operations
Experience in information security, physical security, and personnel security analysis
Demonstrated ability to perform intelligence support operations and security reporting
Strong communication skills for conducting security education and training programs

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal career retirement benefits
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
✓Paid time off and federal holidays
✓Ongoing professional development and certification support

💡 How to Apply Information Security Specialist (Title 5) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Information Security Specialist (Title 5) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a detailed federal resume highlighting experience in months and years.
Complete the mandatory Occupational Questionnaire via the application portal.
Upload required documentation, including your current SF-50 if you are an onboard technician.
Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes specific dates and hours worked per week.
Avoid copying job description text verbatim; use your own words to describe your accomplishments.
Verify that your application status shows 'Received' or 'Completed' after submission.
Upload documents well in advance of the deadline to account for system virus scans.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is education a substitute for experience in this role?

No, this position requires specific specialized experience. Education cannot be substituted for the required experience for this grade level.

What level of clearance is required?

You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance to be eligible for this position.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.

Can I apply if I don't have a Top Secret clearance yet?

Yes, but you must be eligible to obtain and maintain one as a condition of employment.

Job from Army National Guard Units

The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States. With a tradition dating back to the American colonial era, we serve as the first line of defense for our communities during emergencies and as a critical partner in national defense. As an Information Security Specialist, you will be part of the Illinois National Guard (ILNG) team, upholding the standards that protect our sensitive information.