Ardelle Associates is seeking a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA)/ Privacy Act (PA) Specialist to provide contract support to the U.S. Department of Commerce (DOC) in Washington, D.C.

Currently a hybrid remote position: Telework 3 days, must be in the office on Wednesdays

Core Hours: 9:30am - 3:00pm with flex hours outside of the core hours.

Duties

· Review incoming FOIA requests

· Entering incoming FOIA requests into FOIAonline tracking system.

· Reviewing incoming FOIA requests and understanding BIS regulations, program offices and activities to determine where searches must be tasked.

· Consulting with subject matter experts to determine where searches need to be conducted and what search terms should be used.

· Determining whether the searches should be done by individual employees or enterprise searches by OCIO.

· Drafting query requests to OCIO based on the search terms identified.

· Perform searches in Microsoft Outlook.

· Coordinate searches for responsive documents.

· Conduct legal research as needed to determine proper application of the Freedom of Information Act and legal precedent to requests.

· Monitoring status of searches (program offices and OCIO) to ensure timely responses.

· Ensuring the searches cover the entire scope of the request.

· Documenting details of searches for responsive records.

· Reviewing records in consultation with subject matter experts to determine sensitivity of information requested.

· Apply FOIA exemptions to BIS documents with an understanding of BIS regulations.

· Placing redactions on requested records consistent with applicable FOIA exemptions and ensure adherence to BIS regulations.

· Proficient with Adobe Acrobat Pro software and its tools to compile responsive records for redactions, stamping, sanitizing and transmitting.

· Compiling information for FOIA weekly, quarterly, and annual reporting requirements.

· Retrieving reports from FOIAonline, analyzing the data, and giving recommendations and guidance based on the analysis.

· Utilizing Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Power Point software to analyze data, summarize recommendations and deliver presentations.

· Compiling data and statistics to respond to data calls from the Department or the Office of General Counsel.

· Attending monthly FOIA Council meetings.

· Creating and updating template letters.

· Drafting FOIA letters, including acknowledgement, response, and closure.

· Reviewing redaction work of others to ensure consistency and accuracy of redactions.

· Ensuring completeness of each FOIA case file. Case files should include, but are not limited to incoming requests, search documentation, FOIA certifications, responsive record(s) (clean versions, marked version, and redacted versions), email communication concerning the request, response letter to the requester, and any supporting documentations. Each file should be clearly labeled and categorized. Case files is saved on the OPEM shared drive. Responsive records should be redacted and date stamped in Adobe Acrobat Pro and delivered in one PDF.

· Assisting with updating and maintaining the BIS FOIA website and posting frequently requested records.

· Developing FOIA program manual for BIS FOIA program.

· Assisting BIS employees and managers in implementing DOC and BIS FOIA policy and procedures.

DELIVERABLE SCHEDULE

The FOIA Specialist shall provide the following as deliverables:

A. Submit weekly progress reports to the FOIA/PA Officer.

B. Manage FOIA related activities and processes documents related to FOIA.

QUALIFICATIONS

Four (4) years or more of strong knowledge of the FOIA and Privacy Act.

Must be able to utilize Microsoft Office software (Access, Adobe, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook).

Minimum Education: (preferred) Bachelor’s degree.

Job Types: Contract, Full-time

Pay: $40.14 - $44.14.00 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• No nights
• No weekends

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Washington, DC 20230: Reliably commute or planning to relocate before starting work (Preferred)

Experience:

• FOIA Exemptions: 4 years (Preferred)

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Washington, DC 20230

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Job Types: Full-time, Contract

Pay: $40.14 - $44.14 per hour

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• FOIA: 5 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Bar (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

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