Advance Your Career as an IT Specialist (Security) at the Department of Education

Are you ready to pivot your career toward a mission-critical role? The Department of Education’s Federal Student Aid (FSA) Technology Directorate is looking for an expert IT Specialist (Security) at the GS-14 level to join their team. This is a high-visibility position where your work will directly influence how federal student aid data is protected.

About the Agency: Federal Student Aid (FSA)

Federal Student Aid (FSA) is the largest provider of student financial assistance in the United States. FSA manages the administrative and oversight functions for programs authorized under the Higher Education Act of 1965. With a portfolio that serves over 12 million students, FSA’s Technology Directorate plays a vital role in ensuring that all systems are secure, efficient, and compliant with evolving federal standards.

Key Responsibilities

As an IT Specialist (Security), you will not just manage security—you will lead privacy initiatives. Your duties will include:

• Privacy Program Management: Overseeing development and evaluation of privacy tools.
• Incident Response: Participating in the Privacy Incident Response Team (PIRT) to investigate computer incidents.
• Strategic Advisory: Providing expert guidance to FSA leaders regarding privacy methods.
• Awareness Promotion: Developing and delivering training to ensure security principles are integrated throughout the agency.

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-13 level. Key areas of expertise required include:

1. Managing enterprise privacy compliance programs.
2. Implementing privacy controls in accordance with FISMA and the Privacy Act.
3. Leading organization-wide privacy assurance initiatives.

Comparison Table: Qualifications at a Glance

Criteria	Requirement
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	Equivalent to GS-13 level
Security Clearance	High Risk (HR)
Probationary Period	May be required
Resume Limit	2 Pages Max

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $125,776 to $197,200 per year. Beyond the pay, you gain access to a premier federal benefits package:

• Flexible Work: Telework eligibility and alternative work schedules.
• Loan Forgiveness: Potential eligibility for the Student Loan Repayment Program.
• Incentives: Possibility of recruitment and relocation incentives for qualified candidates.
• Work-Life Support: Excused leave for personal health and community service.

Application Tips for Success

• Don't Wait: This job is limited to the first 200 applicants. Apply early to ensure your application is reviewed.
• Resume Precision: Keep your resume to exactly two pages. The system will truncate anything beyond that, and you don't want to miss out because your best accomplishments were on page three.
• Quantify Your Impact: Instead of listing tasks, explain the scope, complexity, and result of your work.

If you have a passion for information security and a drive to protect the data of millions of students, this is the career opportunity for you. By applying today, you can take a significant step in your public service journey with the Department of Education.