Security Technical Specialist

Security Technical Specialists (STS) provide support for and assist in worldwide technical security programs to maintain and provide protection for Department of State personnel and facilities from technical espionage, acts of terrorism, and crime.

The duties of a Security Technical Specialist (STS) vary according to the size of the post and the requirements of the specific diplomatic mission. The following are examples of the types of duties and responsibilities assigned to an STS at posts around the world, or in domestic locations. This list is neither exhaustive, nor in priority order:

• Install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot a multitude of technical security systems to include alarms, access control systems, locks, vehicle arrest systems, security video systems, explosive detection systems, X-ray machines, computer networking equipment, and forced entry ballistic resistant doors.
• Assist with and/or perform technical surveys, system specifications, and equipment installations.
• Conduct technical security design evaluations based on government regulations and standards.
• Prepare formal updates to architectural drawings according to government regulations and standards.
• Apply IT best practices to monitor and troubleshoot networking equipment, workstations, servers, and applications.
• Plan technical support trips, coordinate logistics, and travel to overseas embassies and consulates.
• Use sophisticated electronic test equipment: oscilloscopes, time domain reflectometers, etc.
• Manage equipment supply chain logistics– shipping, receiving, Bill-of-Materials (BOM) preparation using a Computerized Maintenance Management System.
• Oversee and supervise the X-ray and explosive detection programs, to include repairing and performing radiation checks. Maintain/repair electro-mechanical systems using electronic test equipment.
• Organize and maintain shops, storerooms, shop tools, equipment, parts, and supplies.
• Work with or supervise host country personnel (locally employed staff) when required.
• Test new-generation technical security equipment.
• Provide technical security support to high level USG officials and foreign dignitaries.
• Manage training programs for various technical security systems.
• Train security personnel at posts as required.
• Take coursework to maintain and upgrade technical skills.
• Write technical reports, including project proposals, equipment and/or system evaluations, maintenance and/or installation activity reports, technical field notices, trip reports, and other documentation as required.
• Assist in the project management of security contracts. Serve as Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) and as Government Technical Monitor (GTM).
• Supervise regional security technicians as assigned.
• Mentor and supervise junior STS personnel and write employee evaluations when assigned.
• Learn department hiring and management best practices to apply them as a supervisor or when assisting in hiring processes.