Launch Your Career: Security Assistant at the USDA
Are you a recent graduate looking to start a meaningful career in the federal government? The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is looking for a detail-oriented individual to join the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) as a Security Assistant in Minneapolis, Minnesota. This role provides an excellent foundation for a career in personnel security, compliance, and government administration.
Job Responsibilities
As a Security Assistant, you will act as a support specialist within the personnel security unit. Your daily tasks will include:
- Documentation Management: Reviewing background investigation forms, such as the SF-85, for accuracy and following up on missing items.
- Credentialing: Managing the Personal Identity Verification (PIV) request process for agency personnel.
- Fingerprinting: Operating the LiveScan machine to process fingerprints for Special Agency Checks (SAC).
- Database Maintenance: Researching and updating security databases to reflect investigation statuses.
- Correspondence: Preparing formal documentation for customers regarding background investigation requirements and status updates.
Requirements
You must meet specific criteria to be eligible for this Recent Graduates position:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen or National |
| Education | Degree or certificate within the last 2 years |
| Registration | Selective Service compliance (if applicable) |
| Assessment | Must pass required USA Hire assessments |
| Background | Must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $44,410 to $57,734 per year. Beyond the base salary, successful candidates enter the federal workforce with access to robust benefits packages, including health insurance, retirement planning, and the opportunity for career advancement through non-competitive conversion to permanent status.
How to Apply
- Draft your resume: Keep it strictly under two pages and focus on relevant skills.
- Gather documents: Ensure your college transcripts and relevant veteran documentation are ready.
- Apply online: Use the official USAJOBS application portal to submit your materials before the closing date.
- Complete assessments: If prompted, complete the USA Hire assessment within the specified 48-hour window.
If you are a recent graduate with a passion for security and administrative excellence, this position at the USDA is your doorway into a stable and impactful career. Review the full requirements and submit your application today to start your journey with APHIS.
Why This Security Assistant Job Matters
Launch your federal career with the USDA! Become a Security Assistant and play a pivotal role in protecting national agricultural and regulatory integrity.
Security Assistant Job Overview
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is seeking motivated candidates for the Security Assistant position in Minneapolis, Minnesota. As a Recent Graduate hire, you will provide critical support for personnel security and credentialing processes, ensuring that federal and non-federal personnel meet the necessary standards for service. This role is a fantastic entry point into the Department of Agriculture, offering a structured environment where you can develop your skills while contributing to the security of our nation's critical infrastructure.
Requirements for Security Assistant
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must have completed an academic degree or certificate from a qualifying institution within the previous two years.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
- Must successfully complete a one-year trial period.
- Must be eligible for a Secret security clearance.
- Must comply with federal direct deposit requirements.
- Must pass an E-Verify employment check.
Preferred Qualifications for Security Assistant
- Proficiency in the Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience managing and updating tracking spreadsheets.
- Ability to operate specialized equipment like LiveScan fingerprint machines.
- Strong attention to detail for verifying paperwork accuracy.
- Knowledge of standard operating procedures related to security documentation.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Structured training for Recent Graduates
- ✓Potential for non-competitive conversion to a permanent position
- ✓Opportunities for telework eligibility
- ✓Federal health and retirement benefits eligibility
- ✓Professional development within the USDA
💡 How to Apply Security Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Security Assistant Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages.
- Gather your college transcripts.
- Log in to the USAJOBS portal to start your application.
- Complete all required questionnaires and assessment components.
- Upload all supporting documentation in permitted formats (e.g., PDF, DOCX).
- Submit your application package by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire assessment if notified.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the major duties listed in the announcement.
- Verify that your uploaded documents are not encrypted and follow the file size limit of 5MB.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to practice before taking your assessments.
- Submit your application well before the 11:59 PM ET deadline to account for potential technical delays.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Security Assistant position permanent?
This is a Recent Graduate appointment intended to last for one year. Satisfactory performance may lead to non-competitive conversion to a term or permanent appointment, though it is not guaranteed.
What is the assessment process?
Applicants must complete the USA Hire assessments. You will be notified via email after your application is submitted if this is required for your specific file.
Can I submit my resume in any length?
No, your resume must not exceed two pages; applications with longer resumes will be removed from consideration.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*
What is the security clearance level?
*A: This position requires a Secret level security clearance and is designated as a Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk position.*
Job from Animal And Plant Health Inspection Service
The Marketing and Regulatory Programs (MRP) branch of the USDA is vital to the American economy. APHIS works tirelessly to protect the health and care of animals and plants, facilitate global trade, and ensure that agricultural products meet federal standards. Joining APHIS means joining a team dedicated to public service, emergency response, and national stability.