Personnel Security Specialist II - job 1 of 2

As a Personnel Security Specialist II, your primary responsibilities encompass performing a full range of personnel security tasks that support multiple government customers. This includes managing in-processing and out-processing personnel, conducting defensive briefings, and handling sensitive security protocols like nomination interviews and investigative requests. You’ll also be pivotal in educating personnel about unauthorized disclosure awareness and maintaining the Defense Information System for Security (DISS).

To qualify for the Personnel Security Specialist II role, candidates should possess a bachelor’s degree and at least 2 years of experience in personnel security, or a high school diploma/GED with a minimum of 3 years’ experience. Additionally, a valid U.S. citizenship and an active Top Secret clearance is mandatory. Specific courses such as DSS CDSE FSO Program Management and other relevant security training are also required.

Personnel Security Specialists II utilize several tools and systems to maintain security protocols effectively. Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) is essential, along with knowledge of security systems like SIMS and DISS. These tools aid in conducting interviews, administering security briefings, and maintaining accurate security records.

The compensation for the Personnel Security Specialist II role ranges from $76,530 to $93,320 annually, which reflects the base salary before bonuses and benefits. Each candidate’s salary within this range is determined by factors such as work location, experience, and education. Candidates are encouraged to discuss specific salary details during the hiring process.

The work environment for a Personnel Security Specialist II is dynamic and collaborative. You’ll work closely with the Security Manager and assist various government programs, ensuring compliance with security protocols. The culture emphasizes teamwork, continuous learning, and adaptability, where your contributions truly make a difference in maintaining security integrity.

When asked about your experience with personnel security programs, highlight specific duties you’ve performed, such as conducting background checks, processing security clearances, or managing records in systems like SIMS and DISS. Be sure to showcase how your experiences directly relate to the responsibilities of the Personnel Security Specialist II role.

In your response, emphasize your understanding of the importance of confidentiality in personnel security. Discuss specific protocols you've followed, such as securely storing sensitive documents, limiting access to necessary personnel, and ensuring compliance with laws and regulations surrounding confidentiality.

To effectively answer this, mention strategies such as tailoring briefings to the audience, being clear and concise, using engaging materials, and encouraging questions to ensure understanding. Share any past experiences that illustrate your effectiveness in conducting informative and interactive security briefings.

Discuss your methods for staying informed about the latest security regulations, such as subscribing to industry-related publications, participating in training sessions, attending seminars, or being part of professional organizations. This shows your commitment to continuous learning in the personnel security field.

Choose a specific challenge that demonstrates your problem-solving skills. Describe the situation, the action you took to address it, and the outcome. Focus on your ability to remain calm under pressure and the importance of effective communication and teamwork in resolving security challenges.

Customer service is paramount in the Personnel Security Specialist II position, as you’ll be frequently interacting with personnel and government clients. Highlight the importance of being approachable, responsive, and knowledgeable, as well as your ability to build trust with individuals you’re assisting in navigating security processes.

Discuss your proficiency in essential software such as Microsoft Office Suite, SIMS, and DISS. If you have experience with other relevant security management tools, mention those too. This will demonstrate your technical skills and readiness to hit the ground running in the Personnel Security Specialist II role.

Provide examples of how you assess the urgency and importance of tasks. Discuss techniques you use to stay organized, such as creating to-do lists, leveraging project management tools, or setting milestones, ensuring that you consistently meet deadlines even in a high-pressure environment.

Focus on your approach to educating personnel, which might include developing training materials, conducting informative briefings, and utilizing real-life scenarios to highlight the importance of unauthorized disclosure awareness. Describe how you make the information relatable and actionable.

Reflect on specific aspects of the company that attract you, such as its dedication to national security, innovative programs, or commitment to employee development. Align your personal career goals with the company’s mission and demonstrate your enthusiasm for contributing to its objectives.