Advance National Security as an Intelligence Research Specialist
The U.S. Department of State plays a pivotal role in maintaining the integrity of international travel and border security. The Bureau of Diplomatic Security is currently seeking a highly skilled Intelligence Research Specialist to join the Visa and Passport Analysis Branch (VPA). If you are a dedicated professional with a background in criminal intelligence and investigative analysis, this role offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to the nation’s security infrastructure.
Job Responsibilities
As an Intelligence Research Specialist, you will:
- Produce Intelligence: Author accurate, high-stakes reports and briefings regarding document fraud.
- Analyze Trends: Utilize classified and unclassified databases to identify fraud rings and emerging patterns.
- Represent the Bureau: Act as an expert liaison in interagency and international forums focused on countermeasures.
- Strategic Oversight: Develop early warning products that directly inform Department leadership and investigative priorities.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level.
- Clearance: Must be eligible for a Top Secret clearance.
- Time-in-Grade: 52 weeks of federal service at the next lower grade.
- Documentation: All applicants must submit a resume limited to two pages.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Employees also benefit from the robust Federal benefits package, which includes:
| Benefit Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Retirement | FERS with Thrift Savings Plan matching |
| Insurance | Federal Health, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance |
| Work-Life | Potential for situational telework |
| Leave | Paid Federal Holidays and accrual-based leave |
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume MUST be two pages or less. Excessive length results in automatic rejection.
- Assessment Prep: Allocate two hours for the online competency assessment.
- Support Your Claims: Ensure your narrative clearly connects your past experience to the duties listed in the announcement.
This role is a critical component of the Department of State’s ability to combat visa and passport fraud. By combining technical analytical skill with strategic communication, you will help protect U.S. borders and the integrity of travel documents globally. Apply today to begin your journey.
Why This Intelligence Research Specialist Job Matters
Protect national security and combat global fraud as an Intelligence Research Specialist with the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Diplomatic Security.
Intelligence Research Specialist Job Overview
The Department of State is seeking a highly analytical professional to join the Visa and Passport Analysis Branch (VPA) in Arlington, Virginia. In this role, you will serve as a critical intelligence lead, producing investigative reports and identifying patterns in document fraud to safeguard U.S. interests. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape investigative priorities and collaborate across interagency and international platforms to counter evolving threats.
Requirements for Intelligence Research Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Must pass a drug screening.
- Must have 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 grade level.
- Must have served at least 52 weeks at the next lower grade level (Time-in-Grade requirement).
- Must submit a resume limited to two pages maximum.
Preferred Qualifications for Intelligence Research Specialist
- Demonstrated experience producing high-quality criminal intelligence reports on identity or document fraud.
- Expertise in using analytical databases and software to map fraud trends and criminal networks.
- Proven ability to represent agency interests in complex interagency or international forums.
- Experience in integrating investigative data to provide early warning assessments for senior leadership.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance programs.
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance coverage.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including potential telework options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual.
- ✓Access to ongoing professional development and training.
💡 How to Apply Intelligence Research Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Intelligence Research Specialist Job
- Create or sign in to your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less and includes specific hours worked per week.
- Complete the mandatory online competency-based assessment.
- Upload required documentation, including your most recent SF-50 and performance appraisals.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be concise; resumes exceeding two pages will result in immediate disqualification.
- Set aside at least two hours of uninterrupted time to complete the timed online assessment.
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps your experience to the duties described in the job announcement.
- Check for accuracy in your SF-50 forms, as these verify your federal tenure and eligibility.
- Review your application status periodically through your account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this position?
This position requires a Top Secret security clearance and is classified as Special-Sensitive/High Risk.
Can I receive a reasonable accommodation for the online assessment?
Yes. If you require extra time for timed sections, contact the Office of Accessibility and Accommodations (OAA) at [email protected] with the necessary medical documentation.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, situational telework agreements may be permitted subject to supervisory approval.
What is the location of this job?
The position is based in Arlington, Virginia.
When does this job close?
The application window closes on September 9, 2026.
Job from Department Of State Headquarters
The Department of State is the lead foreign policy agency for the United States, advancing national interests through diplomacy and innovation. Working here means joining a diverse workforce committed to global safety and economic prosperity. As one of Forbes' Best Employers, the Department values leadership, collaboration, and professional growth.