Pursuing a career at the NSA offers an opportunity to contribute to national security through various roles, including Polygraph Examiners, based in Fort Meade, MD. These positions are crucial for the agency’s Security and Counterintelligence mission, focusing on the protection of information, personnel, and facilities.

Role and Responsibilities

Polygraph Examiners at the NSA play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of the agency’s personnel by conducting polygraph examinations to assess the trustworthiness of individuals accessing classified information. Key responsibilities include:

  • Conducting physiological response assessments and employing polygraph test techniques.
  • Utilizing interviewing, elicitation, and interrogation techniques in a systematic approach.
  • Documenting processes and findings in detailed reports.
  • Analyzing security and counterintelligence data to produce insightful reports.
  • Traveling as required to meet mission needs.

Upon completing the requisite training, including the National Center for Credibility Assessment Basic Course, examiners are eligible for significant federal supplement pay.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

  • A degree in Criminology, Behavioral Science, Law Enforcement, Psychology, Political Science, or a related field. While specific fields are preferred, candidates with degrees in any discipline may apply.
  • Completion of the Psychophysiological Detection of Deception (PDD) program is necessary for continued role assignment.

Experience Levels

  • Entry/Developmental: Bachelor’s degree with no experience required, though experience in relevant fields is beneficial.
  • Full Performance: Bachelor’s degree with 3 years of relevant experience, Master’s degree with 1 year, or a Doctoral degree. Certification in investigative roles is advantageous.

Candidate Profile

The ideal NSA Polygraph Examiner candidate is committed to continuous learning and exhibits:

  • Strong problem-solving and interpersonal skills.
  • The ability to work independently and collaboratively.
  • Organizational skills with the capacity to manage multiple tasks.
  • Effective communication abilities.
  • A professional demeanor.

Knowledge or experience in Behavioral Science, Security, Law Enforcement, or related fields is desirable.

Compensation and Benefits

  • Salary Range: $53,105 – $122,459, dependent on education and experience.
  • Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8-hour days with flexible hours between 0600 and 1800.
  • NSA offers competitive benefits, including comprehensive health care, retirement plans, and more.

Application Process

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory. The NSA is an equal opportunity employer. Employment is contingent upon a successful security background check and polygraph. Applicants should ensure their spam filters allow emails from [email protected]. To apply, click the ‘Apply’ button on the job posting. Ensure your resume reflects relevant experiences as they pertain to this role.

DCIPS Disclaimer

NSA positions are under the Excepted Service of the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS) as per 10 U.S.C. 1601. The agency adheres to DoD instructions for employment and placement, including veterans’ preference as applicable.