Personnel Security Specialist

Overview

The Personnel Security Specialist (PERSEC) supports the execution and oversight of the Nakupuna Companies’ Personnel Security Program in accordance with 32 CFR Part 117 (NISPOM), SEAD 3, and SEAD 4 requirements.This role is responsible for managing the full lifecycle of personnel security actions, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, and supporting multiple Nakupuna Companies under a centralized security structure. The position requires a high level of autonomy, attention to detail, and the ability to interpret and apply complex security guidance.The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and can independently manage personnel security processes across multiple programs.

Responsibilities

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign additional duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons:

Personnel Security Processing & Lifecycle Management:

• Process personnel security actions including onboarding, transfers, upgrades, downgrades, and separations.
• Review and validate SF-86/eApp submissions for completeness, accuracy, and compliance.
• Identify discrepancies and coordinate resolution with employees and program stakeholders.
• Maintain and update personnel security records in systems of record (e.g., DISS, NBIS).

Clearance Management & Access Control:

• Verify clearance eligibility and access levels in accordance with NISPOM requirements.
• Support indoctrinations, debriefings, and access determinations.
• Ensure compliance with SEAD 3 reporting requirements, including continuous evaluation.
• Utilize systems such as Sign In Compliance (ThreatSwitch) to manage personnel access and clearance tracking activities.
• Provide limited support for Visit Authorization Requests (VARs) during surge periods.

Adjudication & Compliance Support:

• Apply SEAD 4 adjudicative guidelines to identify and escalate potential security concerns.
• Support adjudication processes and provide recommendations.

Audits, Inspections & Compliance:

• Conduct routine audits of personnel security files and systems.
• Support and/or lead PERSEC portions of DCSA self-inspections.
• Track and resolve findings and corrective actions.

Program Support:

• Provide guidance to employees and leadership.
• Support foreign travel reporting.
• Collaborate with security team leads and shared services stakeholders.
• Assist in SOP development and training.

Qualifications

Skills/Qualifications: 

Required Qualifications:

• Ability to independently manage clearance lifecycle
• Experience reviewing SF-86 submissions
• Working knowledge of SEAD 3 and SEAD 4
• Experience supporting audits and continuous evaluation reporting
• Must possess DCSA FSO Program Management Certificate for Possessing Facilities certificate
• Experience supporting DoD or federal personnel security programs
• Working knowledge of 32 CFR Part 117.10, SEAD 3, and SEAD 4
• Experience with DISS, NBIS, SWFT and eApp
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience supporting Multiple Facility Organizations (MFOs)
• Familiarity with Sign In Compliance (ThreatSwitch)
• Client-facing experience

Education and Experience:

• 3–5+ years of PERSEC experience
• High school diploma required

Clerance Requirements: This position requires an active Top Secret security clearance. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Location: Hybrid/3+ days in the office, must be in the DC Metro area.

Core Competencies:

• Self-starter with strong initiative
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Strong independent research skills
• Advanced problem-solving and logical reasoning
• High attention to detail and discretion

Physical Requirements: The ideal candidate must at a minimum be able to meet the following physical requirements of the job with or without a reasonable accommodation:

• Ability to perform repetitive motions with the hands, wrists, and fingers
• Ability to engage in and follow audible communications in emergency situations
• Ability to sit for prolonged periods at a desk and working on a computer

The Nakupuna Companies use a market-based compensation strategy to ensure that our employees are compensated within applicable market ranges commensurate with multiple factors, including but not limited to the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability, organizational requirements, and position location. The projected compensation range for this position is $80,000.00 to $100,000.00 (annualized USD). The salary range displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of Nakupuna Companies total compensation package for employees.