Adjudicator

Protection Strategies Incorporated; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Protection Strategies, Inc. (PSI) is seeking a Background Investigations Adjudicator to evaluate candidates for employment and access to classified information.

You will apply guidelines and judgment to make fair determinations based on investigative findings, supporting government timelines and signature requests. Responsibilities include reviewing investigations, analyzing derogatory and mitigative information, and drafting detailed adjudicative summaries with actionable recommendations for

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in personnel security.
• Five years of experience adjudicating suitability and security background investigations.
• Proficient in Microsoft applications and knowledge of processing e-QIP.
• Strong report writing skills and ability to work with deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Screen, review, and evaluate completed background investigations for suitability and national security.
• Identify and analyze derogatory information and mitigating factors for suitability and security.
• Request supporting documentation from applicants as required.
• Prepare adjudicative summaries with recommended actions and rationale.
• Manage government signature requests and advisory letters; coordinate with stakeholders.
• Maintain caseload with timely follow-up per government timelines.
• Review appeals and provide findings summaries.

Skills

Independent work

Multi-tasking

Written and verbal communication

Microsoft Office

e-QIP processing

Education

Bachelor's Degree or equivalent in personnel security

Tools

Microsoft Office

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