IT CYBERSECURITY SPECIALIST (INFOSEC) Job

Vacancy No. DFAS-DHA-ML-12653945-25 Department Defense Finance and Accounting Service
Salary $123,318.00 to $165,918.00 Grade 14 to 14
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 1/13/2025 Close Date 1/27/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Indianapolis, INCleveland, OHColumbus, OH


Summary

  • Who may apply: This announcement is open to all U.S. Citizens
  • This position is located in: IT DIR OFFICE, ENTERPRISE SERVICES, IT SECURITY SERVICES, ZTAG
  • This position is located in the I&T Security Services Division, and is responsible for implementing Cybersecurity, Risk Management Framework projects, planning and policy management., IT-ZTAG.
  • Pay for first time hires to the Federal Government will typically be set at step 1 salary range for their respective grade level.

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

All US Citizens.

Duties

  • The successful candidate will perform the full range of Sr. IT Cybersecurity Specialist duties.
  • Maintain and update agency level information security policies, methods, and standards in accordance with Department of Defense (DoD), Federal, and National Institutes of Standard and Technology (NIST) standards guidelines.
  • Serve as an agency integrator, analyzing programs, trends and opportunities to provide efficiencies, optimization and improvements.
  • Analyze Cybersecurity and Risk Management Framework programs to ensure agency compliance with DoD requirements.
  • Plan, develop, and implement cybersecurity processes to ensure they operate effectively and are compliant with the Federal Information Systems Security Management Act (FISMA) and other relevant policies, guidelines, and procedures.
  • Oversee the analysis, development, and reporting of the annual RMF program and FISMA reporting.
  • Manage small-to-large size IT cybersecurity and RMF related projects that address the needs of DFAS including requirements gathering, planning, budgeting, scheduling, developing, testing, implementing, and debriefing.
  • Support compliance of agency DoD 8140 programs.
  • Serve as a Sr. Representative to other ISSMs and provides guidance and additional details to questions or concerns. Serves as the central contact with other offices and IT system owners and provides leadership to other ISSMs outside the Division.
  • Serve as a Sr. Representative on RMF related issues to external agencies and DoD CIO level offices
  • As a recognized IT technical authority, works to coordinate the RMF program in line with agency strategy and goals. Leads efforts to continually evolve the RMF program including emerging topics such as Continuous Authorization.
  • Serve as a Senior ISSM for the DFAS Risk Management Framework Program, leading the operation and growth of the RMF Program including Continuous Monitoring, FISMA/Annual Security Assessment, and DFAS Common Control Providers.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • U.S. Citizenship or National
  • Suitable for Federal Employment
  • Registered for Selective Service (if applicable)
  • This national security position, which may require access to classified information, requires a favorable suitability review and security clearance as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain security eligibility may result in termination.
  • New employees to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov.

Qualifications

Resumes for federal government positions need more detailed work descriptions and accomplishments than a typical private sector resume. Please be sure to clearly describe the full scope of your work experiences in your resume.

Basic Requirement: Applicants must have cybersecurity and RMF related experience demonstrating the following competencies appropriate to, or above, the level of this position. Your resume and work experience should clearly support your ability to meet these competencies and will be evaluated as part of the entire application process.

Attention to Detail- Is thorough when performing work and conscientious in attention to detail in responses, communications and deliverables. Experience reviewing my own information technology cybersecurity-related work or data and have been responsible for reviewing the work of others to ensure accuracy, completeness, and consistency with standards.
Customer Service- Works to develop and maintain relationships with customers, anticipating and assessing the current and future cybersecurity needs of customers, and developing or identifying cybersecurity or RMF products or services that are tailored to meet customer needs.
Oral Communication- Relays information and briefs senior-level management and IT staff on the status of cybersecurity and RMF projects, or operations, including communicating technical information to a non-technical audience.
Problem Solving- Identifies problems and alternatives to address unique, highly complex, or sensitive cybersecurity and RMF-related issues. Anticipates problems, has identified and evaluated sources of information to generate alternative solutions and resolutions.

In addition to the Basic Competency Requirements listed above, one year of specialized experience equivalent in level of difficulty and responsibility to that of the next lower grade GS-13 in the federal service, which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position, is required.

Specialized experience is defined as providing authoritative Risk Management Framework and Cybersecurity guidance and oversight leading an Agency Cybersecurity and RMF Program. Must have working knowledge in the area of Risk Management Framework to include, but not limited to: NIST SP 800-37, NIST SP 800-53 (current version), DoDI 8500.01, DoDI 8510.01. Working knowledge of federal requirements such as Privacy Act of 1974, OMB A-130 and FISMA working knowledge of information system security controls and auditing requirements; monitoring compliance of cybersecurity programs to information systems security laws, regulations, protocols or security certification and accreditation requirements, which MUST include Risk Management Framework (RMF); AND serving as a senior project manager for complex, high-visibility cybersecurity and RMF related projects, providing oversight and analysis for an organization's systems projects during the entire project life cycle, including planning and development, execution and evaluation of project performance using established qualitative and quantitative tools, techniques, and practices.

Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Education

Education is not substitutable for specialized experience at this grade level.

Additional information

  • In accordance with the DoD 8140 policy series, the position is subject to completing Foundational Qualifications in 9 months and completing Residential Qualification requirements in 12 months.
  • Moving expenses WILL be paid.
  • Telework availability will be based upon the mission requirements and supervisory determination.
  • Selections are subject to restrictions resulting from the DoD Program for Stability of Civilian Employment.
  • Employment with DFAS means access to generous benefits such as: health, vision, and dental insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, and educational benefits.
  • A one year probationary period may be required.
  • We may use this announcement to fill additional vacancies within 90 days of the closing date.
  • This position is exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act.
  • Travel requirement is occasional.
  • This position is covered by a bargaining unit.
  • This position is being filled under the Direct Hire Authority for Certain Personnel of the Department of Defense via delegated authority by the Office of the Secretary of Defense. Positions may be filled as permanent or term with a full-time or part-time work schedule. Pay will vary by geographic location. We reserve the right to close this announcement early or to extend, as appropriate, based upon the needs of the Agency. Qualified application packages may be referred to management at various points in the selection process depending on the number and timing of applications received. Selections may be made at any point during the announcement open period.
  • Veteran's Preference: Veteran's preference does not apply under this Direct Hire Authority (DHA).
  • PPP Application Based Preference Eligibles (Military Reserve and National Guard technicians, Military Reserve and National Guard technicians receiving disability retirement, and Retained Grade employees) will receive priority consideration at the full performance level only.
  • Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or be exempt from Selective Service (see http://www.sss.gov).
  • Retired Civil Service Employee: Employment of retired Federal employees receiving an annuity is subject to the requirements of the Department of Defense (DoD) policy guidance. (See DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 300, here).
  • The Security Designation will vary and dependent upon position and may require a secret clearance or higher. Employment in this position requires a background investigation which may delay starting date. If you are selected and cannot obtain a favorable security determination within a reasonable period of time due to disclosed/undisclosed background issues, the employment offer may be withdrawn. Individuals selected are required to obtain/maintain a favorable security determination to occupy a sensitive position within the agency as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain eligibility to occupy a sensitive position may result in termination. For more information see the security section of Understanding Vacancy Announcements.
  • Criminal History Inquiries- For some positions, criminal history inquiries may not take place before you receive a conditional job offer. Please see Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (dfas.mil) for more information on The Fair Chance to Compete Act, exceptions, and DFAS contact information.
  • All applicants are encouraged to apply electronically. If you are unable to apply on-line, you may contact 317-212-0454 for assistance.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

IMPORTANT NOTE - YOU MUST FOLLOW ALL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY. ERRORS OR OMISSIONS MAY AFFECT YOUR RATING.

All information included in the resume, required documents and Occupational Questionnaire is subject to review and verification. HR will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the minimum qualification requirements. Applicants meeting the minimum requirements will be referred to management for consideration.

You can preview the Assessment Questionnaire here: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12653945

Required Documents

You must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

  1. Resume: you are encouraged to choose only ONE method of submitting your resume. (HR will review the resume that the system date stamps as the latest one received and this may not be the resume which best reflects your qualifications for the job and may result in an ineligible rating.) You may submit your resume by: attaching in your USAJOBS account; uploading in your Application Manager account; OR faxing. For assistance in preparing your resume, take a look at the DFAS Resume Tools.
  2. Complete Assessment Questionnaire
  3. Other Supporting Documents
The following supporting documents are ONLY required if applicable to your personal qualifications or status. They must be received by the closing date of the announcement.
  1. Transcripts and/or Certifications: For additional information on acceptable documents, click here Transcripts and Certifications. All applicants to include current agency employees/contractors must also document your education and/or certifications in your resume. To be creditable, education must have been obtained in an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
  2. Veterans Preference: If you are claiming veteran's preference, you MUST submit the appropriate documentation.
  3. Cover Letter: You may submit a cover letter which will be forwarded to the selecting official with your resume. Your cover letter will not be used to verify your qualifications or determine eligibility for preference.
  4. Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: Military Spouse Preference applicants, must be selected and placed at the highest grade level for which they have applied and been determined best qualified up to and including the full performance level. You must include a completed copy of the Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for Military Spouse Preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  5. Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians PPP Eligible: MR and NG technicians PPP applicants must be selected and placed at the full performance level if determined well qualified. You must include a completed copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician PPP Self-Certification Checklist to verify your eligibility for Military Reserve and National Guard Technician preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  6. Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians Receiving Disability Retirement PPP Eligible: MR and NG technicians receiving disability retirement PPP applicants must be selected and placed at the full performance level if determined well qualified. You must include a completed copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician Disability PPP Self-Certification Checklist to verify your eligibility for Military Reserve and National Guard Technician Disability preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician Disability PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  7. Retained Grade PPP Eligible: Retained Grade PPP applicants, must be selected and placed at the full performance level if determined well qualified. You must include a completed copy of the Retained Grade PPP Self-Certification Checklist to verify your eligibility for Retained Grade preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Retained Grade PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
WARNING: Failure to submit a complete application package including any required documentation by 11:59 PM (EST) on 01/27/2025, or at the time of application for announcements with an extended closing date, may result in an ineligible rating and loss of consideration. To verify that your application is complete, log into your USAJOBS account, select Application Status and More Information. The Details page will display the status of your application. It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information entered, uploaded, or faxed is received, legible and accurate. HR will not modify answers submitted by an applicant.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package.

Click 'Apply Online' to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.

  1. Follow the prompts to complete the assessment questionnaire and upload your resume (required), and any other application documents.
  2. Please ensure you click the Submit My Answers button to submit your application.
  3. Check application status by logging into your USAJOBS account, clicking Application Status, then More Information for this position. Return to an incomplete application by logging into your USAJOBS account and clicking Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

Agency contact information

HR Customer Care Center
Address
DFAS - INFO AND TECHNOLOGY DIR OFFICE
4800 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22350
US
Learn more about this agency

Next steps

The occupational questionnaire and the resume that you submit will be used to assess your qualifications for the job. Only candidates meeting minimum qualifications will be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interviews.

You will be notified when selections are made. Individuals receiving a tentative job offer will be required to submit to a suitability/security background investigation.


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.