Adjudicator

Protection Strategies Incorporated; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(K) Retirement Plan

Tuition Assistance

Disability Products

Employee Assistance

GoodRx

Commuter Benefits

HSA

HRA

Job summary

Protection Strategies, Inc. (PSI) seeks a qualified Background Investigations Adjudicator to assess character, conduct, and suitability for access to classified information. You will apply guidelines to make fair determinations based on investigative findings.

The role requires evaluating investigations, identifying mitigating information, and preparing detailed summaries with recommended actions for processing. Strong writing and briefing skills are essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or an equivalent combination of education and related experience in personnel security.
• Five (5) years of experience adjudicating suitability and security background investigations.
• Successful completion of an accredited Basic and Advanced Suitability Adjudication Course.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications and knowledge of processing e-QIP.
• Ability to multi-task.
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
• Work with tight and often conflicting deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Screen, review, and evaluate completed background investigations for suitability and security access.
• Identify and analyze derogatory and mitigating information for suitability and for national security.
• Request supporting documentation from applicants related to financial, criminal, or other matters.
• Prepare adjudicative analytical summaries with recommended actions and rationale.
• Manage government signature requests for additional information and Suitability Letters (LOAs).
• Manage caseload with appropriate follow-up based on government timelines.
• Review appeals and reconsideration requests and summarize findings.

Skills

Independent work

Communication skills

Multi-tasking

Deadline management

Report writing

Interpersonal skills

Coordination

Education

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in personnel security

Basic & Advanced Suitability Adjudication Courses

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

e-QIP

Job description

At Protection Strategies, Inc. (PSI), a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business, we engage with industry professionals to provide top-tier security solutions and personnel security expertise for the U.S. Government. Our mission is to safeguard our clients' interests with integrity and innovation, reshaping the landscape of security.

Why PSI?:

Become part of a dedicated team that values people first and believes in making a meaningful impact. We offer cutting-edge solutions that promote safety and protect critical infrastructure. Your hard work will be recognized in our mission-driven culture.

What We Offer:

• Financial Support: 401(K) Retirement Plan, Tuition Assistance, Disability Products
• Wellness Programs:Employee Assistance, GoodRx, Commuter Benefits
• Flexible Spending Accounts:HSA + HRA

Position Overview:

Reviews and evaluates background investigations to assess an individual’s character, conduct, and overall suitability for employment, as well as eligibility for access to classified information. Applies established guidelines and sound judgment to make fair and consistent determinations based on investigative findings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Screen, review, and evaluate completed "issue" and "non-issue" OPM conducted Background Investigation
• Identify and analyze derogatory and mitigating information for suitability (5CFR 731 E.O. 10450) and for national security (E.O. 12968)
• Request support documentation from applicant related to financial, criminal, or other matters, as required
• Prepare detailed adjudicative analytical summaries recommending further courses of action for processing with supporting rationale
• Manage and prepare for government signature requests for additional information and Suitability Letters and Letters of Advisement (LOA's).
• Manage caseload with appropriate follow-up based on government timelines
• Review appeals and reconsideration requests and prepare a summary of recommended Findings

Qualifications:

• Ability to work independently and with minimal supervision
• Bachelor's Degree or an equivalent combination of education and related experience in personnel security.
• Five (5) years of experience adjudicating suitability and security background investigations.
• Successful completion of an accredited Basic and Advanced Suitability Adjudication Course. The DOD course is sufficient for the online Basic Adjudicator training; however, the Advance Suitability Adjudication Course is the responsibility of the contractor. OSSI will only provide the contractor training on OSSI adjudication processes.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications and knowledge of processing e-QIP.
• Ability to multi-task
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills
• Work with tight and often conflicting deadlines
• Coordination of work activities with other persons and groups
• Computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite) and other programs and systems to facilitate work completion
• Interact with representatives, executives, and directors
• Strong report writing skills
• Considerable knowledge of the laws, rules and regulations governing Personnel Security and Suitability.
• Considerable skill in expressing ideas, conclusions, and make recommendations effectively, clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.

EEO Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will be considered without discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status. Employment offers will be contingent on passing a pre-employment drug screen.

Practical AI Application

• Applies AI tools to streamline workflows, enhance decision-making, and improve outcomes
• Understands the strengths and limitations of AI systems and exercises sound judgment in their use
• Continuously explores new AI capabilities and integrates them into day-to-day work where appropriate
• Uses AI in alignment with company and customer-specific policies, data privacy standards, and ethical guidelines
• Exercises discretion when using AI with sensitive or proprietary information
• Demonstrates awareness of bias, accuracy, and risk considerations when leveraging AI tools