Become a Leader in National Security: Senior Industrial Security Specialist
Are you looking for a career that combines technical expertise, critical thinking, and a commitment to national defense? The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) is seeking a motivated and highly skilled Senior Industrial Security Specialist to join their team in Herndon, Virginia. In this role, you will be on the front lines of protecting the integrity of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP).
Job Responsibilities
As a Senior Industrial Security Specialist, your work will be diverse and highly consequential. Your primary responsibilities include:
- Security Oversight: Conducting recurring Security Reviews (SRs) at complex contractor facilities to ensure compliance with federal mandates.
- Investigations: Leading investigations into security violations, including the loss or compromise of classified material.
- Risk Management: Assessing threats and vulnerabilities to critical programs and providing actionable mitigation strategies to senior stakeholders.
- Mentorship: Acting as a subject matter expert to train and mentor junior security personnel.
- Communication: Presenting technical security concepts clearly to both technical and executive audiences.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience equivalent to the GG-12 level.
- Certification: Commitment to attaining the SFPC and ISOC credentials within the designated timeframes.
- Clearance: Ability to hold and maintain SCI-level access.
- Document Compliance: A strict maximum of two pages for your resume.
Skills Comparison
| Skill Category | Importance | Primary Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Technical Compliance | Critical | NISP & Regulatory Standards |
| Risk Assessment | High | Vulnerability Identification |
| Interpersonal | High | Stakeholder Cooperation |
| Communication | Moderate | Reporting & Briefings |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the full benefits package associated with federal service, including robust health insurance options, retirement planning via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), and generous paid leave policies.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Since you only have two pages, highlight your most significant security achievements and investigations rather than listing every task you have ever performed.
- Align with Competencies: Use the specific competency keywords mentioned in the job post (e.g., Vulnerability Assessment, Self-Management) throughout your resume to ensure you clear the automated screening.
- Formatting: Use clear fonts and professional layouts. Avoid including photos or unnecessary personal data that could trigger disqualification.
Serving as a Senior Industrial Security Specialist with the DCSA is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to the defense of our nation's most sensitive information. If you possess the drive, integrity, and technical skill set required, apply today to start a rewarding career with the DCSA.
Why This Senior Industrial Security Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of national security by joining the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA) as a Senior Industrial Security Specialist, where your expertise directly protects critical U.S. technologies and personnel.
Senior Industrial Security Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency is seeking a high-caliber professional to join its Industrial Security team in Herndon, Virginia. This role is pivotal in safeguarding the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) by providing oversight, investigating security violations, and collaborating with stakeholders to mitigate risks at contractor facilities. You will act as a senior advisor, ensuring that classified programs remain secure against evolving global threats.
Requirements for Senior Industrial Security Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
- Must pass an initial drug screening and participate in random drug testing as a condition of employment.
- Possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GG-12 level in the federal service.
- Must obtain Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) within 24 months of start.
- Must obtain Industrial Security Oversight Credential (ISOC) within 12 months of achieving SFPC (or 12 months of hire if already SFPC certified).
- Must adhere to a strict two-page resume limit.
Preferred Qualifications for Senior Industrial Security Specialist
- Extensive experience conducting security reviews within the National Industrial Security Program (NISP).
- Proven track record of investigating complex security violations and managing loss/compromise incidents.
- Experience in conducting on-site Facility Clearance (FCL) eligibility surveys.
- Demonstrated ability to mentor junior staff and facilitate quality assurance programs.
- Advanced interpersonal and negotiation skills to resolve complex security conflicts.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and specialized security training.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including telework options.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
💡 How to Apply Senior Industrial Security Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Senior Industrial Security Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages, including all required employment details (hours per week, dates, duties).
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Complete the required online technical assessment questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as SF50s or veterans' preference documentation, as PDF files.
- Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Follow the two-page resume limit strictly; exceeding this will result in automatic disqualification.
- Use the resume builder tool in USAJOBS to ensure you include all required formatting and data points.
- Ensure your resume explicitly describes how your experience aligns with the required competencies: Self-Management, Problem Solving, Vulnerability Assessment, Oral Communication, and Interpersonal Skills.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are in acceptable formats (PDF preferred) and do not contain sensitive personal information like social security numbers.
- Be descriptive in your resume regarding specific accomplishments rather than just listing duties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this position?
This position requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance due to the nature of the work involving classified national security information.
Can I use education to qualify for this GS-13 level position?
No, substitution of education is not permitted in lieu of specialized experience for this grade level.
Is travel required?
Yes, as a Senior Industrial Security Specialist, you will be conducting on-site security reviews and surveys, necessitating periodic travel to contractor facilities.
Job from Defense Counterintelligence And Security Agency
The DCSA is a cornerstone of the Department of Defense’s (DoD) security mission. Tasked with managing the NISP, investigating threats to critical U.S. technologies, and ensuring the trustworthiness of the federal and contractor workforce, the DCSA provides essential oversight that keeps our nation secure. Working here offers a unique opportunity to contribute to high-stakes intelligence and security initiatives.