Senior Security Specialist - Personnel Security (PERSEC)

Puyenpa 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:
  • Master's degree in a related discipline; or
  • 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.

Puyenpa provides a variety of benefits including company-paid health, dental & vision insurance coverage, as well as additional employee-paid health insurance options; company-paid life and disability insurance; 401k retirement savings plan with employer match; 11 company paid holidays per year, and paid time off.

Puyenpa is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Puyenpa complies with applicable federal contractor requirements regarding protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Puyenpa provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities during the application process. To request an accommodation, please contact recruiting@puyenpa.com.

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