Personnel Security Specialist (PERSEC) Lead

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

We have an exciting opportunity for a Personnel Security (PERSEC) Lead in Poway, California.

Under general direction of the PERSEC Manager, this position is responsible for administering security clearance processes for varies agencies including DOD and DOE. This individual will respond to a variety of inquiries of routine and non-routine nature, using a basic knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program (NISP) and a good understanding of established policies, procedures, and practices for safeguarding National Security Information.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Analyze, investigate, and resolve personnel security issues while providing leadership and guidance to employees, supervisors, managers, and contractors on actions(s) to be taken to ensure compliance with the classified security program.
• Administer and coordinate security activities in accordance with company policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal security regulations, directives, and manuals for safeguarding National Security Information.
• Establish and maintain liaison with government agencies, external customers, contractors, employees, and managers. Coordinate with government agencies to obtain rulings, interpretations, and acceptable deviations for compliance with regulations.
• Lead Personnel Security Personnel through DOD programs and/or geographic locations.
• Initiates projects and develops the schedule to meet project goals and exercises considerable judgment to develop solutions while providing leadership and guidance to employees, supervisors, managers, and contractors on appropriate action(s) to be taken to ensure compliance
• Analyze security issues, participates in developing solutions, and coordinates appropriate actions(s) to be taken to ensure compliance with the classified security program.
• Implement and administer access control program(s) for the company and/or assigned affiliated company.
• Implement visitor control procedures ensuring compliance with the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM).
• Provide leadership, direction, and training to less experienced staff.
• Respond to day-to-day security needs of the program staff in the position of Contractor Program Security Officer.
• Develop, review, and implement DOD personnel security procedures.
• Initiates and reviews security clearance packages for accuracy and completeness, able to conduct fingerprints in a timely manner.
• Utilizes Defense Information System for Security (DISS)
• Utilizes National Background Investigation Services (NBIS)
• Verifies the appropriate level of background investigation being requested, and ensures all documents required for processing have been properly completed and submitted.
• Track and maintain all Personnel Security (PERSEC) information to include clearance status, security training records, personnel information files and visit certification (VAR).
• Implement visitor control procedures ensuring compliance with the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM) and company policies. Process Classified Visit Requests.
• Provide security education briefings / debriefings.
• If applicable, and under direction of security management, investigate and review security violations, recommending corrective actions.
• Responsible for observing all laws, regulations, and other applicable obligations wherever and whenever business is conducted on behalf of the Company.
• Expected to work in a safe manner in accordance with established operating procedures and practices.
• Other duties as assigned or required.

We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.

Job Qualifications

• Typically requires a bachelor's degree in business administration or a related discipline and ten or more years of professional classified security experience in a corporate or government environment. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Top Secret security clearance is required.
• Experience with DOD processes and procedures or an equivalent regulatory environment and/or military training is preferred.
• Must have a basic understanding of the NISP, 32 CFR Part 117, and working knowledge of established policies, procedures, and practices for safeguarding National Security Information.
• Must possess:
  • The ability to identify issues and develop solutions to a variety of problems.
  • Good communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills.
  • The ability to initiate and plan projects, analyze and interpret data.
  • The ability to produce appropriate clear, concise and detailed documentation; and
  • good computer skills.
• Must be able to work independently and in a team environment.
• Able to work extended hours and travel as required.