Highly skilled Personnel Security Specialist with experience in developing, implementing and managing security programs. Strengths include thorough understanding of security principles, knowledge of procedures for handling classified information, and ability to conduct comprehensive security assessments. Previous work demonstrates strong impact through improved security measures and adherence to regulations.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Personnel Security Specialist/Analyst/Consular
U.S Department of State
Washington DC, United States
09.2013 - Current
Oversaw personnel security background investigations to assess eligibility for classified information access.
Reviewed and processed background checks for employees and contractors efficiently.
Maintained compliance with federal regulations regarding personnel security protocols.
Collaborated with law enforcement agencies to verify security-related information.
Developed training materials on security awareness for staff and stakeholders.
Implemented risk management strategies to enhance personnel security measures.
Facilitated communication between departments to coordinate personnel security efforts.
Evaluated risk assessments for potential new hires and developed mitigating strategies for those determined ineligible for a clearance.
Analyzed data from multiple sources in order to detect patterns of noncompliance or suspicious activity.
Supported U.S. Embassies' security policies and procedures through access, briefings, document control, and law enforcement work.
Participated in meetings with stakeholders to discuss changes in policy or procedure that could affect personnel security operations.
Reviewed personnel security clearances and access requests to ensure compliance with established regulations.
Developed and maintained personnel security files in accordance with government regulations.
Maintained up-to-date knowledge of current best practices regarding personnel security issues.
Collaborated with various federal agencies on projects concerning personnel security requirements.
Provided advice and guidance regarding personnel security policies and procedures.
Drafted correspondence related to personnel security matters such as access authorization decisions, denials, terminations, suspensions.
Made recommendations for approval, disapproval or modification of clearance based on information uncovered.
Conducted thorough investigations, ensuring compliance with established standards and verifying coverage sufficiency.
Expanded leadership responsibilities as Acting Team Lead, managing team operations and reviewing work effectively.
Participated in Presidential Transition Team within Diplomatic Security Investigations.
Ensured investigations complied with eQIP and Federal Investigative Standards.
Utilized Personnel Security Dashboard for interim determination tracking, integrating personal management systems for efficiency.
Collaborated with Area Coordinators and field investigators to manage case leads, ensuring accurate outcomes.
Managed $155K budget for Office of Overseas Investigations, preparing reports and monitoring procurement logistics.
Education
Professional B.A. Certificate - Terrorism Studies
American Military University/American Public University
Manassas, VA, United States
10.2009
Juris Doctorate - Law
Alliant International University - San Francisco Law School
San Francisco, CA, United States
06.2008
Bachelor's Degree - International Studies, Cultural Anthropology
California State University East Bay
Hayward, CA, the United States
09.2003
Skills
Government investigative databases management
Personnel security and background investigations
Classified information handling
Risk and case management
Regulatory compliance
Data analysis and risk analysis
Policy communication and interpretation
Security protocols
Stakeholder liaison and communication
Team leadership under tight deadlines
Report writing and SOP development
Security briefings
Document security management
Threat assessment
Document management systems
Understanding of government contracts and workforce demands
Security Clearance
Active Top Secret - U.S. Citizen
Certification
Insider Threat (DOD and DOS) ; Security professional Trusted Workforce 2.0 (DCSA); Personnel Security- Federal Standards of Investigation/Clearances (DOS); Leadership in Public Service ( Partnership for Public Service); Global Fraud (DOS)
Timeline
Personnel Security Specialist/Analyst/Consular
U.S Department of State
09.2013 - Current
Professional B.A. Certificate - Terrorism Studies
American Military University/American Public University
Juris Doctorate - Law
Alliant International University - San Francisco Law School
Bachelor's Degree - International Studies, Cultural Anthropology