Information Technology Specialist (Information Security)

USAID is an independent Federal Government agency that receives overall foreign policy guidance from the Secretary of State. With headquarters in Washington, D.C., USAID fosters transformational development around the world. Our work supports economic growth and trade; agriculture and the environment; education and training; democracy and governance; global health; global partnerships and humanitarian assistance. We operate in four regions of the world: Sub-Saharan Africa; Asia and the Near East; Latin America and the Caribbean; and Europe and Eurasia. USAID employees in the Civil Service and Foreign Service, as well as individuals employed through Personal Service Contracts, must adhere to our Counter Trafficking in Persons Code of Conduct. For information on the effort to counter all forms of human trafficking, including the procurement of commercial sex acts and the use of forced labor, visit http://www.state.gov/g/tip. For more information about USAID, visit http://www.usaid.gov. Key Requirements: U.S. Citizen or national Relevant experience (see Qualifications below) Must be able to obtain and maintain a security clearance Males born after 12/31/1959, must be registered with the Selective Service THIS IS AN OPEN CONTINUOUS ANNOUNCEMENT. A referral list will be issued after the following cut-off dates: October 21, 2011;Novemberber 21, 2011; December 21, 2011; January 21, 2012; February 21, 2012;March 21, 2012; April 17, 2012; May 21, 2012; June 21, 2012; July 21, 2012 and; August 21, 2012, September 21, 2012. This announcement may close at any time once all positions are filled. Applications for this position are being processed through an on-line applicant assessment system that has been specifically configured for US Agency for International Development applicants. Even if you have already developed a resume in USAJOBS, you will need to access this on-line system to complete the application process. To obtain information about this position and TO APPLY, please click on http://www.avuecentral.com/vacancy.html?ref=TPQLO.

KEY REQUIREMENTS: See Other Information.

2 vacancies - Washington, DC

DUTIES:

Ensures, or participates in ensuring, the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of systems, networks, and data through the planning, analysis, development, implementation, maintenance, and enhancement of information systems security programs, policies, procedures, and tools.
Evaluates, acquires, configures, and uses software intended to ensure that automated systems are secure from unauthorized use, viral infection, and other problems that would compromise sensitive information in terms of confidentiality, integrity, and availability, or would compromise other aspects of overall system security.

Performs surveys, studies, and evaluations to measure and improve program operations and results.

Plans, schedules, and conducts projects and studies to evaluate and recommend ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of program or project operations.

Provides advice and guidance, including interpretations, opinions, or decisions, regarding programs or policies. Consultations involve assessment of program or policy conditions, phenomena, or anomalies.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

Ability to communicate effectively other than in writing.

Knowledge of information systems security operations, techniques, and standards.

Ability to communicate in writing.

Ability to plan and execute work.

Ability to provide advice and guidance on business and program management issues.

Knowledge of program management principles, concepts, and methods.

MINIMUM FEDERAL QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:

Qualifying experience for the GS-14 level requires IT-related experience that demonstrates each of the following four competencies: Attention to Detail; Customer Service; Oral Communication; and Problem Solving; AND one (1) year of specialized experience at least equivalent to the GS-13 level. Specialized experience is experience that is in or directly related to the line of work of the position to be filled and that has equipped the applicant with the particular competencies/knowledge, skills, and abilities to successfully perform the duties of the position. Experience must be IT-related and may be paid or unpaid experience.

Example of specialized experience for positions at the GS-14 level, typically gained in the IT field or through performance of work where the primary concern is IT, includes experience analyzing a number of alternative approaches when advising management concerning major aspects of IT system design. The experience demonstrates accomplishment of IT project assignments requiring knowledge of IT requirements and techniques pertinent to the position to be filled.

See Other Information for further requirements.

You will be rated based on your qualifications for this position as evidenced by the education, experience and training you report relative to this position which shows that you possess the knowledges, skills and abilities required. Paid or unpaid experience will be considered.

See Other Information.

USAID is listed as one of the top ten best places to work in the federal Government by the Office of Personnel Management’s survey.


WHERE ARE WE?
USAIDs headquarters is centrally located in downtown Washington, DC, at the prestigious Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center on 14th and Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. We are located right on the Federal Triangle Metro (Blue and Orange Lines). The office is within walking distance of restaurants, shops, Smithsonian Institution museums and Washington Monument.

HOW YOU WILL BE EVALUATED:
We will review your resume to ensure you meet the basic qualification requirements. Upon meeting these requirements you will be evaluated on information provided in the supplemental questionnaire which collects information on your education, training, and experience related to identified critical competencies.

You must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of this announcement.

IMPORTANT: If you are found to have rated your self-assessment higher than information in your resume, supporting documentation, or any relevant part of your application including attachments, your score may be adjusted to reflect the final rating based on all the information provided in your application. This may result in a lowered score which may preclude you from being referred for the position(s).

HOW TO APPLY:
You must submit a complete online application by the closing date of this announcement. If you are unable to apply online you may contact the Agency contact below or Avue Direct Services at 1-800-407-0147, 253-573-1877(ext 209), or moc.hceteuva@euvAeoJ. Avue Direct Services may be reached until 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time.

Proof documents can be electronically attached, or scanned and attached, to the employment application. If this is not possible, documents can be faxed to 253-573-9869 or mailed to: USAID, c/o Avue Technologies Corp., ATTN: Direct Services, 1145 Broadway Plaza, Suite 800, Tacoma, WA 98402. Faxed or mailed proof documents must be submitted by the closing date of the announcement showing your name and the announcement number.

Application updates can be made until 11:59 p.m. EASTERN TIME on the closing date.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS:

• Resume showing relevant experience;
• SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action as stated;
• Veterans’ documentation if applying for veterans’ preference (DD214, SF-15, and Veteran’s Administration Letter);
• CTAP/ICTAP documentation as stated

If you have questions about required supporting documentation or this vacancy you may obtain assistance BEFORE THE CLOSING DATE of this announcement from the Agency contact below.

WHAT TO EXPECT NEXT:

Applicants are evaluated using an automated applicant assessment system. After determining basic eligibility and qualifications, the supplemental questionnaire will be used to identify the best qualified applicants to be referred to the hiring manager for consideration and possible interviews. We will notify you of the outcome after each of these steps. After making a tentative job offer, we will conduct a suitability/security background investigation. A final job offer is contingent upon passing the background investigation and obtaining the security clearance.

BENEFITS:
Working for USAID offers comprehensive benefits including paid vacation, sick leave, holidays, life and health insurance, and the Federal Employees Retirement System. You can explore the benefits offered to most Federal employees at http://www.usajobs.gov/EI/benefits.asp#icc. USAID’s headquarters is in downtown Washington, D.C., at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center on 14th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., on the Federal Triangle Metro Blue and Orange Lines. The office is within walking distance of restaurants, shops, museums, and Washington Monument. A physical fitness facility and food court are on site. You will be eligible for telework in accordance with Agency policy.

OTHER INFORMATION:
This announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies within 5 months of the closing date.

EEO Policy: http://www.usajobs.gov/eeo

Reasonable Accommodation Policy: http://www.usajobs.gov/raps

Veterans’ Information: http://www.usajobs.gov/vi

These are Testing Designated Positions (TDPs) under the Agency’s approved Drug-Free Work Place Program. All applicants selected for this position will be subject to random drug testing once they begin working for the Agency.

Applicants must submit a complete application by the closing date of this announcement. If you need technical assistance in submitting your application, or are unable to apply on-line and desire to obtain an Applicant Questionnaire package, please contact AVUE Direct Services at 1-800-407-0147, or email at moc.hceteuva@euvAeoJ.

Applicants submitting proof documents can electronically attach them, or scan and attach them, to the employment application. If this is not possible, copies of documents can be faxed to (253) 573-9869, or mailed to the following address: USAID, c/o Avue Technologies Corporation, ATTN: Direct Services, 1145 Broadway Plaza, Suite 800, Tacoma, WA 98402. All faxed or mailed proof documents must be submitted prior to the closing date of the announcement and must be identified with applicant’s name and vacancy announcement number.

Moving expenses are not authorized.

Relocation expenses are not authorized.

Entrance on duty is contingent upon completion of a pre-employment background investigation. Eligible applicants will be asked to submit forms required for a security clearance and suitability determination for appointment to the Foreign Service. The clearance process considers such factors as: registration for the Selective Service; failure to repay a US government-guaranteed student loan; past problems with credit or bankruptcy; failure to meet tax obligations; unsatisfactory employment records; violations of the law; drug or alcohol abuse; a criminal record; extensive travel; education; residence and/or employment overseas; dual citizenship; foreign contacts; immediate family or relatives who are not citizens of the United States and/or a foreign born spouse; or less than honorable discharge from the armed forces. Investigations, which usually take several months, include current and previous contacts, supervisors, and coworkers. These investigations are conducted by USAID in cooperation with other federal, state, and local agencies.

SELECTIVE SERVICE. As a condition of employment, all male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must have registered for the selective service. If selected for this position, the applicant must sign a statement certifying his registration, or the applicant must demonstrate exempt status under the Selective Service Law.

This is a Direct Hire action. Direct Hire Authority (section 1312 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002) allows agencies to appoint candidates directly to occupations for which the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) has determined that there is a severe shortage of candidates or a critical hiring need for certain occupations, grades, and/or geographic locations. Agencies may appoint without regard to Veterans’ Preference.

Generally, preference is granted to veterans who entered military service prior to October 14, 1976; or served on active duty during the period from August 2, 1990, through January 2, 1992, and who are otherwise eligible; or who served on active duty during the period beginning September 11, 2001, and ending on the last day of Operation Iraqi Freedom; or who have served in a military action for which they received a Campaign Badge or Expeditionary Medal. This includes the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal (AFEM) awarded to those who participated in Operation Joint Endeavor or Operation Joint Guard. Also, you may be entitled to veterans’ preference if you are a disabled veteran; you have received a Purple Heart; you are the spouse or mother of a disabled veteran; or you are the widow, widower, or mother of a deceased veteran. You will need to submit a Standard Form (SF) 15 and proof of your claim.

If you are claiming 5-point veterans’ preference, or you are applying for consideration under the Veteran Employment Opportunity Act or Veteran Readjustment Authority, attach a copy of your DD-214 “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty” or other proof of eligibility. If you are applying for consideration under the 30% or more Disabled Veteran Authority, you must attach a SF-15, “Application for 10-Point Veterans’ Preference” plus the proof required by that form.

If you are an eligible Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) applicant you may apply for special selection over other applicants for this position. Individuals who have priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) must be well qualified for the position. To be well qualified, applicants must satisfy all qualification requirements for the vacant position and score 90 or better on established ranking criteria. The determination of whether or not the applicant meets the well-qualified definition will be made prior to veteran preference points being added. CTAP/ICTAP eligibles must submit one of the following as proof of eligibility for the special selection priority: a separation notice; a “Notice of Personnel Action” (SF-50) documenting separation; an agency certification that you cannot be placed after injury compensation has been terminated; an OPM notification that your disability annuity has been terminated; OR a Military Department or National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456.

If you are an eligible Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) applicant you may apply for special selection over other applicants for this position. Individuals who have priority selection rights under the Agency Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) must be well qualified for the position. To be well qualified, applicants must satisfy all qualification requirements for the vacant position and must meet the “Silver” level of the three quality categories selected for use in USAID. CTAP/ICTAP eligibles must submit one of the following as proof of eligibility for the special selection priority: a separation notice; a “Notice of Personnel Action” (SF-50) documenting separation; an agency certification that you cannot be placed after injury compensation has been terminated; an OPM notification that your disability annuity has been terminated; OR a Military Department or National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456.

This appointment requires completion of a one-year probationary period. During this time period, employee’s conduct and performance will be monitored in order to determine if employee will be retained.

Applications for this position are being processed through an on-line applicant assessment system that has been specifically configured for US Agency for International Development applicants. Even if you have already developed a resume in USAJOBS, you will need to access this on-line system to complete the application process. To obtain information about this position and TO APPLY, please click on http://www.avuecentral.com/vacancy.html?ref=TPQLO.

Documents That May Be Required for Verification Of Eligibility:
* Proof of United States Citizenship (birth certificate or other acceptable documentation).
* Proof of military service (DD214s or other equivalent documents).
* Proof of government service providing reinstatement eligibility Notification of Personnel Action, SF-50 or other equivalent document
* SF15, Application for 10-Point Veteran’s Preference and appropriate documentation (for 10-point compensable or non-compensable disability preference, Purple Heart, disability pension, or preference based on service of spouse or child).
* Proof of eligibility for priority placement consideration under Career Transition Assistance Program (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP); i.e., copy of appropriate documentation such as RIF separation notice, or other notice of eligibility.
* Proof of eligibility for special appointment authorities for people with disabilities. Proof of disability from military service (i.e., letter from
Veterans Administration or a branch of the armed forces indicating disability and the amount [%] of the disability, or certification from a State Vocational Rehabilitation Agency or Veterans Administration).
* Proof of government service meeting time-in-grade requirements.
* Copy of college transcript if education was used to qualify you for the position.

Client Care Team Phone: 202-712-0460 Fax: 253-573-9869 Email: vog.diasu@tnemtiurcerpsc

Agency Information: USAID 1300 Pennsylvania Ave. N.W. RRB/ITC Washington, Dist of Columbia 20523 US Fax: 253-573-9869

You will be rated based on your qualifications for this position as evidenced by the education, experience and training you report relative to this position which shows that you possess the knowledges, skills and abilities required. Paid or unpaid experience will be considered.