White House Security Officer Position 2026: Your Complete Guide to Landing a GS-14 Federal Career

Application Deadline: February 16, 2026 | Salary: $143,913 – $187,093

Exceptional Opportunity: Security Officer at the White House Military Office

The White House Military Office (WHMO) is currently accepting applications for a highly prestigious Security Officer position, offering a rare opportunity to serve at the highest levels of national security. This GS-14 position, with a salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 annually, represents one of the most sought-after federal government careers available in 2026.

Located in the District of Columbia, this supervisory security role within the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) White House Support Staff requires exceptional expertise in security administration, special access programs, and a demonstrated commitment to protecting our nation’s most sensitive operations. The position closes on February 16, 2026, making it essential for qualified candidates to act quickly.

Position Overview: What Makes This Role Unique

The White House Military Office Security Officer position stands apart from typical federal security roles due to its direct involvement with Presidential Support operations and special access programs. This is not merely a security job—it’s a mission-critical position that directly impacts national security and the smooth functioning of executive operations.

Key Position Details

Job Series: 0080 Security Administration
Pay Scale: GS-14 (based on 2026 locality rates)
Location: Washington, DC (1 vacancy)
Appointment Type: Permanent, Full-time
Service Type: Competitive
Announcement Number: DISA-12866022-26KEB

This supervisory position offers telework eligibility on a situational basis as determined by agency policy, occasional travel requirements, and potential reimbursement of relocation expenses for qualified candidates. The role is designated as “Mission Essential,” meaning incumbents must be prepared to report during local or national emergencies.

Core Job Responsibilities and Duties

The Security Officer will plan, organize, and direct all activities of the WHMO Special Access Program (SAP) Branch, ensuring the administration, deployment, and enforcement of a comprehensive special access security program. This multifaceted role encompasses several critical security disciplines.

Primary Responsibilities Include:

1. Policy Development and Implementation
You will establish and implement security policies and procedures for the accomplishment of special access functions across multiple domains, including information security, personnel security, industrial security, physical security, and network systems security. This requires a comprehensive understanding of federal security regulations and the ability to translate complex requirements into actionable protocols.

2. Security Analysis and Risk Management
The position demands continuous identification of security deficiencies and vulnerabilities, analysis of major security problems, evaluation of special access program mission vulnerabilities, assessment of security impacts to mission assurance, and resolution of convergence difficulties involving all security disciplines. This analytical component requires both technical expertise and strategic thinking.

3. Program Management and Leadership
As a supervisory position, you’ll lead a team responsible for protecting some of the nation’s most sensitive information and operations. This includes managing human resources, coordinating with other security professionals, and ensuring compliance with all relevant Department of Defense directives and policies.

4. Special Access Program Administration
You’ll oversee the complete lifecycle of special access programs, from initial security assessments through ongoing monitoring and periodic reviews. This includes managing clearance processes, conducting security briefings, and ensuring all personnel maintain appropriate security postures.

Qualifications: What You Need to Apply

The qualification requirements for this position are stringent, reflecting the critical nature of the work and the sensitive environment in which it operates.

Specialized Experience Requirement

Candidates must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level within the federal service. This specialized experience must demonstrate proficiency in establishing and implementing policies and procedures to support specialized security functions, such as:

Developing comprehensive security policies and programs
Managing security inspection programs and compliance initiatives
Evaluating and mitigating security risks across multiple domains
Overseeing personnel security programs and clearance processes
Implementing physical security measures and protocols
Managing information security and classification programs

Time-in-Grade Requirement

Current or former federal employees must meet the time-in-grade requirement. Specifically, applicants must have served 52 weeks as a GS-13 or higher grade in federal service. Additionally, candidates must have served at least three months after their latest competitive appointment in the federal service.

Education Requirements

There is no substitution of education for specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level. This position requires demonstrated practical experience in security administration and program management that cannot be replaced by academic credentials alone.

Security Clearance and Suitability Requirements

Given the sensitive nature of White House operations, this position carries extensive security and suitability requirements that exceed those of typical federal positions.

Clearance Level and Investigation

The incumbent must obtain and maintain a current Top Secret (TS) security clearance based upon a Tier 5 (T5) Background Investigation. Additionally, eligibility for access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) is mandatory. This level of clearance requires an extensive background investigation covering financial history, foreign contacts, criminal records, and personal conduct.

Presidential Support Duty Approval

Prior to reporting for duty, the selected candidate must be approved for Presidential Support Duty (PSD) in accordance with Department of Defense Directive 5210.55, Category II minimum. This unique requirement reflects the position’s direct support to executive operations and requires additional vetting beyond standard security clearances.

Drug Testing Requirement

This is a designated drug testing position. Individuals tentatively selected will be required to submit to urinalysis for illegal drugs prior to appointment or placement. Ongoing random drug testing may be required throughout employment.

Financial Disclosure

As a covered position, the selected candidate must complete an OGE Form 450, Confidential Financial Disclosure Report, within 30 days of appointment pursuant to 5 CFR 2634.903(b). Annual financial disclosure may be required to identify potential conflicts of interest.

Required Certification: Security Fundamentals Professional Certification

The Security Fundamentals Professional Certification (SFPC) is a mandatory requirement for this position. This industry-recognized certification demonstrates foundational knowledge in security principles, practices, and regulations essential for federal security professionals.

If you do not currently hold the SFPC, you should begin the certification process immediately, as it must be obtained before appointment. The certification covers critical areas including risk management, security planning, personnel security, physical security, information security, and security education and awareness programs.

Who Can Apply: Eligibility Categories

This announcement is open to specific categories of applicants, reflecting both federal hiring preferences and the specialized nature of the position.

Eligible Applicant Categories:

1. Current Federal Employees (Competitive Service)
Current permanent competitive service DoD employees and current permanent DoD Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) employees are eligible to apply. This includes employees whose agencies follow U.S. Office of Personnel Management hiring rules and pay scales.

2. Veterans and Veterans’ Preference Eligible
Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces, spouses, widows, widowers, or parents of veterans who may be eligible for derived preference are encouraged to apply. Veterans’ preference can provide significant advantages in the federal hiring process, particularly for highly competitive positions like this one.

3. Career Transition Assistance Programs
Federal employees eligible for Career Transition Assistance Programs (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Programs (ICTAP) receive priority consideration. This includes federal employees whose job, agency, or department was eliminated.

4. Military Spouses
Military spouses of active duty service members or those whose spouse is 100 percent disabled or died on active duty are eligible under special hiring authorities designed to support military families.

5. Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA)
Eligible veterans may apply under VEOA provisions, which provide additional opportunities for preference-eligible veterans to compete for positions.

Salary, Benefits, and Additional Compensation

The comprehensive compensation package for this position reflects both the seniority of the role and the demanding nature of the work.

Base Salary

The position offers a salary range of $143,913 to $187,093 per year, based on 2026 locality pay rates for the Washington, DC area. Starting salary within this range will be determined based on qualifications, experience, and current federal pay status for internal candidates.

Potential Additional Compensation

Relocation Expenses: You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy. This can include costs associated with moving household goods, temporary lodging, and final travel to the duty station.

Recruitment, Relocation, or Retention Incentives: These incentives may be authorized depending on agency needs and budget availability. Note that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 makes certain reimbursements and payments taxable. However, some appointees may be eligible for the Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA) to offset this tax burden.

Federal Benefits Package

As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a comprehensive benefits package including:

Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program with numerous plan options
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) including pension and Thrift Savings Plan
Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care
Paid vacation (annual leave) and sick leave
11 paid federal holidays annually
Access to Employee Assistance Programs
Professional development and training opportunities
Transit subsidy programs

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Guide

The application process for this position involves multiple steps and requires careful attention to detail. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Application Timeline

Opening Date: February 7, 2026
Closing Date: February 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Time
Application Method: Online through USAJOBS

Required Application Materials

1. Resume (Maximum 2 Pages)
A two-page maximum resume is required. Your resume should clearly demonstrate your specialized experience and qualifications for this position. Focus on quantifiable achievements and specific security program management experience.

2. SF-50 Form (Current and Former Federal Employees)
If you are a current or former federal employee, you must submit your SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) reflecting your highest grade held on a permanent basis for at least 52 weeks, tenure, and appointment type. Failure to provide this document may result in disqualification.

3. Veterans’ Preference Documentation
If claiming veterans’ preference, you must submit appropriate documentation including DD Form-214 or certification of expected discharge. For 10-point preference or disabled veteran status, additional VA documentation is required.

4. Transcripts (If Applicable)
While education cannot substitute for experience at this level, transcripts may be required for verification purposes if referenced in your application.

USA Hire Assessment Process

This position uses the USA Hire Assessment to evaluate applicants through online competency-based assessments. After submitting your application, you will receive a notification with a unique assessment access link.

Assessment Components:

Security Program Management competencies
Managing Human Resources capabilities
Vulnerabilities Assessment and Management skills
Influencing and Negotiating abilities
Classification Management expertise

Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the assessments, though most applicants finish in less time. The assessment includes a cut score based on minimum required proficiency—you must meet or exceed this score to be considered for the position.

Step-by-Step Application Instructions

Create or access your USAJOBS account at www.usajobs.gov
Search for announcement number DISA-12866022-26KEB
Click “Apply Online” and carefully read all instructions
Complete the application questionnaire accurately and thoroughly
Upload all required documents in the specified formats
Submit your application before 11:59 PM ET on February 16, 2026
Complete USA Hire Assessments within the specified timeframe after receiving your unique link
Monitor your USAJOBS account for updates and additional requests

How Applications Are Evaluated

Understanding the evaluation process can help you tailor your application for maximum competitiveness.

Initial Screening

Your application materials will first be reviewed to ensure you meet basic eligibility requirements, including citizenship, time-in-grade (if applicable), and specialized experience qualifications. Applications that do not clearly demonstrate these requirements will not proceed to the assessment phase.

USA Hire Assessment Evaluation

Your responses on the application questionnaire and USA Hire assessments will be evaluated based on the critical competencies identified for this position. The assessment measures your proficiency in areas essential to security program management and leadership.

Subject Matter Expert Panel Assessment

This announcement uses a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Panel Assessment to evaluate applicants. SMEs with deep expertise in security administration and special access programs will review qualified applications to assess technical competency and suitability for the specific duties of this position.

Referral and Selection

Candidates who meet all requirements and score competitively on assessments will be referred to the selecting official. Before final selection, applicants must be pre-screened for PSD suitability. The selected candidate must obtain and maintain PSD approval to remain eligible for the position.

Special Considerations and Requirements

Probationary Period

As a condition of employment, you may be required to serve a 1-year probationary period during which the agency will evaluate whether your continued employment advances the public interest. The evaluation considers your performance and conduct, agency needs and interests, and whether your continued employment advances governmental goals and federal service efficiency.

Mission Essential Designation

This position has been designated as “Mission Essential.” This means you will be required to report to work or relocate to a new duty location within the United States during times of local or national emergency. Additionally, you are subject to recall or callback during off-shift hours, seven days a week, 24 hours a day, if required by upper management.

Commitment to Federal Service Values

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. These values are central to service in this sensitive position.

Tips for a Competitive Application

Highlight Relevant Experience

Your resume should clearly demonstrate security program management experience at increasingly responsible levels. Use specific examples of security programs you’ve developed, managed, or improved. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—for example, “Managed security clearance program for 500+ personnel” or “Reduced security incidents by 40% through implementation of new protocols.”

Address All Required Competencies

Ensure your application materials address all five critical competencies: Security Program Management, Managing Human Resources, Vulnerabilities Assessment and Management, Influencing/Negotiating, and Classification Management. Provide concrete examples of how you’ve demonstrated each competency in your professional experience.

Prepare for Assessments

While you cannot study for the USA Hire assessments in a traditional sense, you can prepare by reviewing the position requirements and reflecting on your relevant experience. The assessments measure both knowledge and practical judgment in security scenarios.

Submit a Complete Application Package

Incomplete applications are the most common reason for disqualification. Create a checklist of all required documents and verify you’ve submitted everything before the deadline. Double-check that your SF-50 (if applicable) shows the correct information about your grade and tenure.

Apply Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. Technical issues can occur, and applying early gives you time to address any problems. It also ensures you receive your USA Hire assessment link with ample time to complete it.

Reasonable Accommodation for Applicants with Disabilities

If you believe you have a disability covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a reasonable accommodation in your online application.

Requests for reasonable accommodation and appropriate supporting documentation must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on accommodation requests are made on a case-by-case basis. If you need assistance, review the procedures at the USA Staffing support website or contact the HR Customer Care Center at (317) 212-0454.

Questions and Contact Information

For questions about this position or assistance with the application process, contact:

HR Customer Care Center
Phone: (317) 212-0454
Email: dfas.indianapolis-in.zh.mbx.dfasmeritcc@mail.mil

Agency Address:
DISA-WHITE HOUSE SUPPORT STAFF
6910 Cooper Road
Fort Meade, MD 20755-7088

All applicants are encouraged to apply electronically through USAJOBS. If you are unable to apply online, contact the HR Customer Care Center for assistance.

After You Apply: What to Expect

Once your complete application package is received, you will receive an acknowledgement email confirming successful submission. Your application will then go through several stages:

Timeline and Process

Application Review: Your qualifications will be evaluated based on your application materials and questionnaire responses
USA Hire Assessment: You’ll complete online competency-based assessments
Initial Screening: Applications will be reviewed to ensure basic eligibility requirements are met
SME Panel Review: Subject matter experts will assess qualified candidates
Referral: Competitive candidates will be referred to the selecting official
PSD Pre-Screening: Referred candidates will undergo Presidential Support Duty suitability screening
Interviews: Selected candidates may be contacted for interviews
Tentative Offer: A conditional job offer may be extended
Background Investigation: A comprehensive suitability and security background investigation will be conducted
Final Offer: Upon successful completion of all requirements, a final offer will be made

You will be notified of the outcome after each major step has been completed. The entire process, from application to final offer, typically takes several months due to the extensive security clearance and suitability requirements.

Conclusion: A Career-Defining Opportunity

The White House Military Office Security Officer position represents a truly exceptional career opportunity for qualified security professionals. This is more than a job—it’s a chance to serve at the highest levels of national security, protecting the operations and personnel that safeguard our nation.

With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the prestige of working in direct support of executive operations, this position offers both professional fulfillment and career advancement. The specialized nature of the work, combined with the stringent qualification requirements, ensures that those selected will join an elite group of security professionals trusted with our nation’s most sensitive responsibilities.

If you possess the required specialized experience, hold or can obtain the necessary security clearances, and are committed to excellence in federal service, this opportunity could define the next phase of your career. The application window is brief—from February 7 to February 16, 2026—so qualified candidates should begin preparing their applications immediately.

Remember, the federal hiring process is designed to be fair and transparent, but it rewards those who prepare thoroughly and submit complete, compelling applications. Take the time to craft a strong resume that clearly demonstrates your qualifications, gather all required documentation, and approach the USA Hire assessments with the seriousness they deserve.

For more information about this position or to begin your application, visit USAJOBS announcement DISA-12866022-26KEB.

Application Deadline: February 16, 2026 at 11:59 PM ET