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Polygraph Examiner - Entry to Mid Level (MD)
Responsibilities
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 Basic 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 Basic Course and required NSA-specific polygraph training, polygraph examiners are eligible for federal supplement pay, which is significant increase to base pay.
Job Summary
Polygraph Examiners apply the principles and methods of physiological detection of deception to Agency employees and affiliates to determine their eligibility for Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) access. These polygraph assessments are conducted by Polygraph Examiners in support of Personnel Security's comprehensive Personnel Security processing program, designed to ensure a trusted workforce. Polygraph Examiners conduct polygraph assessments for initial clearance eligibility, continued access, and special issues with a personnel security suitability or counterintelligence nexus.
Qualifications
The qualifications listed are the minimum acceptable to be considered for the position. Degree in Criminology, Behavioral Science, Law Enforcement, Psychology, or Political Science is preferred, but a degree in any field is acceptable. Continued assignment to the Polygraph Examiner work role is contingent upon completion of the National Center for Credibility Assessment's Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (PDD) program as well as any associated requirements (including continuing education needed to maintain certification). Relevant experience must be in security, law enforcement, behavioral science, counterintelligence investigations, polygraph, or a related field. ENTRY/DEVELOPMENTAL Entry is with a Bachelor's degree and no experience. Experience in security, law enforcement, behavioral science, counterintelligence investigations, polygraph, or a related field is desired. 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 security, law enforcement, behavioral science, counterintelligence investigations, polygraph, or a related field. Certification as a special agent or equivalent investigative certification (CIA investigator and/or OPM investigator) is preferred.
Competencies
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 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