Safeguarding National Interests: Careers as a Special Security Officer with HUD

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is much more than a provider of housing opportunities. Behind the scenes, the Office of Administration and the Office of National Security (ONS) work tirelessly to protect the personnel and information that allow HUD to fulfill its critical mission. We are currently looking for a seasoned Security Officer (Special Security Officer) to join our team in Alexandria, Virginia, to lead our efforts in classified and sensitive information security.

Job Responsibilities

As a Special Security Officer, you will be the technical lead for Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). Your responsibilities will include:

Overseeing the lifecycle of SCIF facilities (ICD 705 compliance).
Investigating potential security breaches and credential abuse.
Advising senior leadership on risk and compliance strategies.
Managing personnel access, indoctrinations, and debriefings.

Comparison of Security Requirements

Requirement	Description
Clearance	Active Top Secret/SCI required
Education	Relevant specialized experience (GS-13 equivalent)
Certification	SSO certification required within 6 months

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-14 position, applicants must demonstrate significant experience in the federal sector at the GS-13 level. You must hold an active Top Secret/SCI clearance and be prepared to submit to background investigations and random drug testing.

Salary Overview

This position is graded at the GS-14 level with a salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive compensation package, including:

Health insurance, dental, and vision coverage.
Generous leave policies.
Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Opportunities for professional certifications and ongoing training.

Application Tips

Your resume is the most important document in your package. Ensure it is formatted clearly, does not exceed two pages, and explicitly details your specialized experience with dates and hours per week. Don't forget your most recent performance appraisal—if you don't have one, provide a written explanation.

If you are a security professional looking to make a meaningful contribution to the federal government's national security mission, apply today. Your expertise is the foundation of our future.

Why This Security Officer (Special Security Officer) Job Matters

Protect the Future of National Security: Join HUD’s Office of Administration as a Special Security Officer and safeguard the integrity of our nation’s housing and community development mission.

Security Officer (Special Security Officer) Job Overview

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is seeking a highly skilled Security Officer (Special Security Officer) to join the Office of National Security (ONS). In this critical GS-14 role, you will act as the primary authority for Special Access Programs (SAP) and Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI). You will play a vital role in ensuring mission assurance by managing complex security infrastructure, overseeing SCIF operations, and providing expert risk-mitigation guidance to senior leadership in a high-impact, mission-driven environment.

Requirements for Security Officer (Special Security Officer)

Must be a U.S. Citizen or U.S. National.
Active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) Clearance is a mandatory selection factor.
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent.
Must undergo a background investigation and drug testing.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Special Security Officer (SSO) certification within six months.
Willingness to obtain a Federal Acquisition Certification for Program and Project Managers (FAC-P/PM).
Registration with the Selective Service System if born after December 31, 1959.
Must be able to work overtime or shift work during emergencies.

Preferred Qualifications for Security Officer (Special Security Officer)

Demonstrated experience in managing ICD 705 and ICD 703 compliance.
Expertise in developing and executing physical security construction and alarm response documentation.
Proven track record in managing SCIF lifecycles and national security compliance programs.
Experience providing strategic security advice to senior-level executive leadership.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans
✓Paid annual and sick leave
✓Opportunities for flexible work schedules
✓Professional development and training programs
✓Participation in life insurance and long-term care programs

💡 How to Apply Security Officer (Special Security Officer) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Security Officer (Special Security Officer) Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
Prepare a detailed federal resume (max 2 pages) highlighting your relevant security experience.
Submit your online application through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
Complete the required questionnaire and online assessments if prompted.
Ensure all supporting documents, including your most recent performance appraisal, are uploaded.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/day/year) and hours worked per week.
Use a clear, readable font and adhere to the 2-page limit restriction.
Double-check that your performance appraisal covers the last 12 months; provide an explanation if it is missing.
Check your email and spam filters frequently for correspondence regarding assessment links.
Review the practice resources available through the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

What level of security clearance is required for this role?

This position requires an active Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance. You must possess this clearance at the time of application.

Is this position eligible for telework or remote work?

This position is not currently listed as eligible for telework or remote status. The duty station is in Alexandria, Virginia.

What is the specialized experience requirement?

You must have one year of experience equivalent to the GS-13 level, involving the management of SCIF operations, policy development, and the handling of sensitive intelligence information.

Job from Office Of The Chief Administrative Officer

HUD is committed to building strong, sustainable communities. The ONS plays a vital role in this by ensuring that the agency remains agile, efficient, and secure. We envision a future of government that is responsive and accountable, and we invite experts who share that vision to help us protect our national security objectives.