Duties
Security and Counterintelligence is responsible for the protection of NSA/CSS information, people and facilities worldwide. In support of this mission, Polygraph Examiners help ensure that only trustworthy individuals receive access to classified information by using structured polygraph examinations, including interviews and interrogations, to obtain information in making adjudicative decisions.
Polygraph Examiners are required to successfully complete the National Center for Credibility Assessment's Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (PDD) Course. Examiners must be able to travel to Columbia, South Carolina for a 12-week period. After completing training, the responsibilities of a Polygraph Examiner include, but are not limited to:
- Applying principles and methods of physiological response assessment (e.g., polygraph assessment), including test techniques, scoring methods, and regulations
- Applying techniques of interviewing, elicitation, debriefing, and/or interrogation in a systematic manner
- Preparing accurate and complete reports that document processes, outcomes, and findings
- Creating a product based on analysis of security and/or counterintelligence data
- Travel opportunities may be available and required to complete mission needs
- Upon successful completion of the National Center for Credibility Assessment PDD Course and required NSA-specific polygraph training, polygraph examiners are eligible for federal supplement pay, which is a significant increase to base pay.
NOTE:
- Continued assignment to the Polygraph Examiner work role is contingent upon completion of the National Center for Credibility Assessment's PDD Course, as well as any associated requirements (including continuing education needed to maintain certification).
- Candidates hired for this position will be required to complete a four-year commitment to the Polygraph Examiner work role.
Requirements
Conditions of Employment
- All applicants and employees are subject to random drug testing in accordance with Executive Order 12564. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a security background investigation and polygraph.
Qualifications
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
A degree in any field is acceptable.
ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience.
FULL PERFORMANCE
Entry is with a Bachelor's degree plus 3 years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree plus 1 year of relevant experience, or a Doctoral degree and no experience.
Relevant experience must be in one or more of the following: security, law enforcement, behavioral science, investigations, interrogations, polygraph, or a related field. Experience must also include gathering, analyzing, or synthesizing information.
Education
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position.
A degree in any field is acceptable.
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.
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.
The ideal candidate has a desire for continual learning with excellent problem-solving and interpersonal skills who is:
- Able to work as an individual, and in a team and/or classroom environment
- Well-organized and able to handle multiple assignments
- Able to handle and adapt to constructing feedback
- A strong written and oral communicator
- Able to deal with conflict or difficult situations and topics
- Present a mature, professional demeanor and appearance
Knowledge and relevant experience in one or more of the following is desired:
- Behavioral Science
- Counseling
- Security
- Law Enforcement
- Counterintelligence Investigations
- Polygraph
Although any degree is acceptable, a degree in Criminology, Behavioral Science, Law Enforcement, Psychology, or Political Science is preferred.
Candidates must be:
- Able to maintain certification by completing a minimum of 80 hours of continuing education every two years.
- In possession of a 4-year degree or greater from an accredited college or university