Security Assistant

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) has adopted the HR Modernization and Shared Services Implementation, which is a new model of organizing and consolidating essential Human Resource functions and services to the Veterans Integrated Services Network (VISN) level. This position serves as a Security Assistant and performs security-related functions in support of a Network Personnel Suitability and Credentialing Program hereinafter, "Personnel Security Program" within a shared services unit.

The Personnel Security Assistant is responsible for performing security-related functions in support of a Network Personnel Security Program. You will work closely with other Personnel Security Assistants/Specialists to assure that all appointees have the appropriate level of security/suitability clearance commensurate with their assignment. The incumbent of this position will also be responsible for performing duties in the Personal Identity Verification Program (PIV). Duties of a Personnel Security Assistant include, but are not limited to: Assists with the Personal Identity Verification (PIV) Program in performing functions associated with the daily operations to include performing registrar and/or issuer duties and training sponsors on their roles and responsibilities. Requests information from various law enforcement agencies and courts and assures that the approving official is kept informed of these actions. Keeps security information confidential and assures compliance with the requirements of safeguarding personal and other sensitive data pursuant to the Computer Security Act of 1997, and the Privacy Act of 1974. Maintains logs of current employees who are in public trust positions and ensures reinvestigations are initiated, reviewed and released using e-QIP within the required time frame as per policy. Works with Recruitment and Placement to assure required background documents are complete and accurate as per policy (OF-306, SF-85, SF-85P, etc.). Reviews applicant's data ensuring that the submitted information matches the demographic data and that all required information has been provided. Compiles data from diverse sources, assembles information and develops reports or presentations. Takes and transmits electronic fingerprints for appointees or when the FBI returns fingerprints as unclassifiable for various reasons. Enters appropriate data in required databases related to an appointee's suitability from a wide variety of sources, E.G., fingerprint/badge log, notification(s) of investigation(s)scheduled by OPM, requests by DCSA for additional information, receipt/disposition of results of both Special Agreement Checks (SAC) and National Agency Check with Inquiry (T1) or higher, to include interim reports or pending completion reports, assignment for adjudication and final disposition of the investigation. Assures that paperwork related to the suitability process is forwarded for inclusion in the appropriate system of records. Performs work related to the collection, organization and/or tracking of information in support of the Personnel Security Program. Processes of initiating, reviewing, and approving background cases for release to the Defense Counterintelligence & Security Agency (DCSA)in compliance with policies relating to completion of suitability investigations for Federal employees and others requiring background investigations for non-sensitive and public trust positions. Assists the Personnel Security Specialist in collecting appropriate background information, tracking and reviewing data, completion of reports, maintaining databases and processing follow-up actions on various security related matters and assisting with suitability adjudications. Performs administrative tasks associated with the authorization and issuance of the PIV card, a standardized identification badge designed to increase security related with physical access to Federal facilities and logical access to computer systems and networks. Works with applicants who may be experiencing difficulties with completion of electronic forms related to the background screening process. Supports the programming of PIV cards after manufacture. Requires basic knowledge and training on the application and use of VA-CABS. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Position Description Title/PD#: Security Assistant/PD99952S Physical Requirements: The work is sedentary. Typically, the employee sits comfortably to do the work. However, there may be some walking; standing; bending; carrying of light items such as papers, small boxes, or books. Promotion Potential: The selectee may be promoted to the full performance level without further competition when all regulatory, qualification, and performance requirements are met. Selection at a lower grade level does not guarantee promotion to the full performance level.

You must be a U.S. citizen to apply for this job To be considered for this position, you must complete all required steps in the process. In addition to the application and questionnaire, this position requires an online assessment. The online assessment measures critical general competencies required to perform the job. Subject to a background/suitability investigation Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 A complete application package; Resume, Transcripts, etc. is required Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued identification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Upon completion of your probationary period (OR INSERT "trial period"), your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period (OR INSERT "2-year trial period") during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service Upon completion of your probationary period or trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

Applicants may substitute education for the experience required for the GS-05 level only. Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/.If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education.