Who We Are
At the very heart of everything we do as a department are our people. Our people represent Australia to the world, promoting and protecting our international interests to ensure our security and prosperity globally. It’s important to us that our people reflect the rich and diverse cultures, experience, and background of the broader Australian community that we represent. That is why we are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where all employees are respected for who they are and encouraged to contribute to their full potential.
The department is comprised of motivated and professional teams. Our employees have a wide variety of qualifications and backgrounds. We welcome people with experience outside government including from the private and not-for-profit sectors. We value people with ideas, the ability to present them persuasively, and the drive and skill to see them adopted. We take pride in our reputation for acting with integrity and discretion. The department is committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace where all employees are valued. We appreciate the experiences, skills, and perspectives of all individuals. We actively encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds.
What We Offer
Working at the department is more than just a job. It is a career that can provide you with the opportunity to do the kind of work that adds up to something meaningful.
• Our learning and development programs are provided through our Diplomatic Academy - a leading-edge hub for all staff working to advance Australia’s interests internationally.
• We are a diverse and inclusive workplace with an attractive remuneration package including generous employer superannuation contributions at 15.4%.
• Exciting and fulfilling work at the heart of government. Whether we are promoting international trade and investment, helping in crises overseas, assisting Australian travellers, reducing poverty, and supporting growth, we all share a common goal of advancing the interests of Australia and Australiansinternationally.
• The opportunity to work with strong, intelligent, visionary, and experienced leaders who encourage and support you to develop your interests and expertise and achieve your ambitions.
• The department supports flexible working arrangements, including part-time work and job sharing
Our Ideal Candidate
Working as part of the Security Clearances and Investigations (SCI) team and under the supervision of the Director Security Clearance and Investigations and Assistant Director Personnel Security Vetting, you will be required to process security clearances in accordance with the Protective Security Policy Framework (PSPF) and DFAT standard operating procedures, using DFAT’s electronic case management system. You will operate with discretion and provide sound and well considered recommendations regarding clearance outcomes, including on complex cases. You will also have the ability to prepare security clearance denial documentation to a high standard.
You will be expected to collaborate with outsourced service providers (OSP) and other Australian Government organisations and work to tight deadlines ensuring benchmarks timeframes are met. You will be expected to actively and effectively liaise with a range of clearance subjects and stakeholders from a range of diverse backgrounds. You will play an important role in a small team demonstrating strong task prioritisation and well-developed communication skills in the resolution of high-volume work.
You will demonstrate initiative and excellent judgement and be driven to deliver results. It is expected that you enthusiastically offer innovative approaches by taking a modern approach to vetting challenges. Your knowledge (or the ability to quickly acquire this knowledge) of the DFAT Security Framework (DSF) and security threats and risk management will be important in your work in delivering personnelsecurity outcomes for the department. You will have very good coordination and interpersonal skills and be client and delivery focussed.
You will hold a Certificate IV in Government Security (Personnel Vetting), and ideally have experience in Australian Government security vetting. You will have a sound understanding of the role and responsibilities of DFAT. You will have demonstrated the highest standards of integrity and professionalism. You will display a demonstrated capacity to adhere to APS and departmental values
Key Duties
As a Personnel Security Vetting Analyst, you may undertake some or all of the following key duties:
• Prepare recommendations and advice in relation to a person’s suitability to access sensitive and classified information, ensuring alignment with legislation, policies and guidelines, including the PSPF and DSF
• Undertake analysis, collection, and evaluation of information, liaise with clearance subjects, and conduct security vetting interviews and protective security briefings in accordance with the PSPF and DSF
• Support the performance and quality of the department’s approach to vetting assessments, ensuring adherence to quality standards
• Build and sustain collaborative relationships with a wide network of internal and external stakeholders to deliver vetting outcomes
• Represent the department and work area at workshops, meetings, and committees in relation to the process of collecting, analysing, and evaluating personal information during security vetting
• Contribute to improving the efficiency and rigour of the section’s procedures for conducting security vetting and providing advice on security vetting matters.
Eligibility Requirements
Under section 22(8) of the Public Service Act 1999, employees must be Australian citizens to be employed in the Australian Public Service (APS) unless the Agency Head has agreed otherwise, in writing.
The department requires the successful candidate to obtain and maintain a Negative Vetting 2 level clearance security clearance. Loss of a security clearance at any time may lead to termination of employment. Employment with the department can, however, commence on a lower-level clearance, in some circumstances, and the department will work with you to facilitate this if you are successful. Ongoing engagement would be subject to obtaining the higher-level clearance.
Depending on the role into which you are placed, you may also be required to obtain and maintain a Working with Vulnerable People/Children registration (or equivalent). Depending on the role you may be required to undertake additional training such as, working at heights and asbestos awareness.
How to Apply
Submit your application via the department’s website at DFAT Careers website before 11:30pm AEST on Sunday 6 November 2022.
Your application will need to provide:
• your personal details
• a one-page pitch/no more than 750 words or one page upload
• a maximum four-page CV (uploaded)
• contact details of two referees (one being your current supervisor).
Your application will be assessed on your ability to demonstrate, or have the potential to develop, the required skills, knowledge, experience, and qualifications, to proficiently perform the role. Relevant examples and accomplishments will strengthen your application.
The requirements of the role are based on the information provided to you as part of the job advertisement, in line with the APS Work Level Standards (WLS).
Your one-page pitch is your opportunity to tell us why you are the right candidate for the role.
Applications that do not meet these requirements may not be considered.
Contact Officer
Name: Myles Howard
Phone: +61 2 6178 6281
Email: myles.howard@dfat.gov.au
