Senior Security Specialist – Personnel Security (PERSEC)

Our client is seeking a Senior Security Specialist – Personnel Security (PERSEC) for an upcoming proposal supporting the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter Joint Program Office (JPO) Security Services Contract. This senior-level position serves as a subject matter expert in personnel security matters and provides guidance, oversight, and support for security programs that protect personnel, information, and mission-critical operations.
The successful candidate will independently execute personnel security functions, advise government stakeholders on personnel security matters, and provide senior-level expertise supporting F-35 security operations. This position requires the ability to lead complex security efforts, interface with senior government officials, and provide strategic recommendations regarding personnel security policies and processes. . This position will be located in Arlington, VA. and is structured as a full-time, 40-hour-per-week role. An active DoD Top Secret clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Required (SAR) eligibility/access is required.

This is a proposal position and is contingent upon contract award, customer approval, and final staffing authorization.

Key Responsibilities
• Independently perform personnel security (PERSEC) functions in support of F-35 Joint Program Office security operations.
• Provide subject matter expertise regarding personnel security policies, procedures, and program implementation.
• Support adjudication, eligibility determination, access authorization, and personnel security program administration activities.
• Review, analyze, and process personnel security documentation to ensure compliance with applicable DoD and federal requirements.
• Coordinate with government security officials, program personnel, and supporting organizations regarding personnel security matters.
• Provide guidance and recommendations on personnel security issues, investigations, and security program requirements.
• Prepare reports, briefings, and correspondence for leadership regarding personnel security activities and program status.
• Support inspections, audits, assessments, and corrective action activities associated with security programs.
• Advise management on personnel security risks, trends, and mitigation strategies.
• Provide SME-level guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level security personnel.

Required Qualifications
• Senior-level qualifications consistent with the labor category:
o Master's degree in a related discipline; or
o Bachelor's degree plus four additional years of relevant experience in lieu of a master's degree.
• Minimum of ten years of experience performing work related to personnel security or a closely related security discipline.
• Ability to comprehensively and independently fulfill personnel security requirements associated with PWS.
• Demonstrated ability to provide subject matter expert (SME) guidance in personnel security operations.
• Specialized experience supporting senior leadership engagements, including flag-officer-level briefings and senior-level interface.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience working within Department of Defense security environments.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced mission environment.
• Active DoD Top Secret clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and Special Access Required (SAR) eligibility/access is required.
• Will be required to sign Letter of Intent.

Preferred Qualifications
• Experience supporting acquisition, program management, or defense program offices.
• Experience supporting personnel security programs within a Major Defense Acquisition Program (MDAP).
• Familiarity with F-35 program operations and security requirements.
• Experience using personnel security databases and case management systems.
• Prior experience supporting Joint, Service, or Headquarters-level security organizations.