Personnel Security Specialist

About the opportunity

This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, within U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Professional Responsibility, Personnel Security Division in Washington, D.C. The incumbent serves as an advanced trainee, performing duties such as reviewing and evaluating investigation packages, documenting actions in systems of records, and utilizing personnel security IT systems. The role starts at the GS-07 or GS-09 level with promotion potential to GS-12. CBP employees are expected to exemplify core values of vigilance, service to country, and integrity. All new federal employees must serve a one-year probationary period. The position requires a background investigation and may require a Secret or higher security clearance.

Salary and benefits

• Salary range: $57,736 to $91,815 per year (GS-07 to GS-09)
• Promotion potential up to $133,142 (GS-12)
• Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance
• Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent)
• Flexible Spending Account and Employee Assistance Program
• Personal leave days and paid federal holidays
• Flexible work schedules, tuition reimbursement, and transportation subsidies
• Uniform allowance, health and wellness programs, and fitness centers

Who can apply?

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with Selective Service
• Must meet residency requirement: physically resided in the U.S. or its protectorates for at least three of the last five years
• Must pass a background investigation and drug testing
• GS-07 qualification: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade OR one year of graduate education OR a bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement
• GS-09 qualification: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade OR two years of graduate education or a Master's/LL.B./J.D. degree

Required documents

• Resume (maximum two pages, in English, including specific details like hours worked and dates)
• Job questionnaire responses
• College transcripts (unofficial acceptable at application, official required before entry on duty)
• Proof of veterans' preference (e.g., DD 214, SF-15, VA Disability Award letter)
• SF-50(s) for current or former federal employees
• Documentation for CTAP/ICTAP eligibility if applicable
• Initial and termination SF-50s for former political appointees

When to apply

• Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 2026-09-09

How to apply

• Read the full announcement and instructions on USAJOBS
• Click 'Apply Online' and complete the application questionnaire
• Attach all required supporting documentation
• Submit the application by the deadline
• Complete the required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments within 48 hours of receiving the notification link

Additional information

• The position is not covered under a bargaining unit.
• Telework is generally not eligible, with very limited exceptions.
• The online assessment includes competencies such as Attention to Detail, Decision Making, and Integrity.
• Applicants must certify that they did not use AI or consultants for the essay questions in the questionnaire.
• The open period may be extended to allow for a sufficient applicant pool.