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Information Security Specialist 2

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Information Security Specialist 2

Salary

$77,379.00 - $117,497.00 Annually

Location

Dauphin County, PA

Job Type

Civil Service Permanent Full-Time

Job Number

CS-2025-34002-01518

Department

Public School Employees' Retirement System

Division

PS Info Sec Off

Opening Date

10/01/2025

Closing Date

10/14/2025 11:59 PM Eastern

Job Code

01518

Position Number

50661659

Union

Non-Union

Bargaining Unit

A3

Pay Group

ST09

Bureau / Division Code

1432

Bureau / Division

Information Security Office

Worksite Address

5 North 5th Street

City

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania

Zip Code

17101

Contact Name

Veronica Witmer

Contact Phone

717.783.8602

Contact Email

[email protected]

+ Description

+ Benefits

+ Questions

THE POSITION

The Pennsylvania Public School Employees Retirement System (PSERS) serves over 500,000 active and retired public-school employees through its defined benefit and defined contribution plans. The agency has nearly 350 employees who serve at varying capacities including: customer service representatives, benefits processors, accountants, and investment and information technology professionals.

We are currently looking to fill an Information Security Specialist 2. This role will focus on cybersecurity controls and their effectiveness to protect sensitive data information for the agency. Key responsibilities include leading projects, security architecture design, security systems and application administration, cybersecurity consulting, and incident response. If you have experience performing technical work in information technology security and want to be part of a team that helps to support the members we serve here at PSERS, apply today for this opportunity!

This position is in Harrisburg, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania for which the incumbent must maintain permanent Commonwealth residency. The employer will not pay for relocation, housing, or travel expenses. Teleworking from within Pennsylvania is optional for this position with an occasional need to report to the Harrisburg office.

DESCRIPTION OF WORK

In this role you will act as the first line of response and the technical lead for daily cybersecurity activities and inquiries from within the agency. Responsibilities include being the technical lead for security by design, threat and vulnerability management, security software and devices, cloud security, and also monitoring and incident response. This role will be expected to lead and participate in projects for the implementation of security technology and establish security controls as part of the design phase for new systems and applications.

This position also provides training and coaching to lower level Information Security Specialists to aid in skill development and the overall skills of the team. Work is completed with limited supervision and requires independent decision making related to assigned areas of responsibility. A broad range of IT technical knowledge and the ability to apply that knowledge for both active and proactive problem solving is essential in order for a candidate to be successful in this role.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description. (https://careers.employment.pa.gov/pd/PD\_NEOGOV.asp?p=50661659)

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

+ Full-time employment

+ Work hour s are 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday - Friday, with a 60-minute lunch. Hours may be flexible.

+ Telework: You may have the opportunity to work from home (telework) part-time. This position will be required to report to the office one day a month and as operationally needed. In order to telework, you must have a securely configured high-speed internet connection and work from an approved location inside Pennsylvania. If you are unable to telework, you will have the option to report to the headquarters office in Harrisburg. The ability to telework is subject to change at any time. Additional details may be provided during the interview.

+ Salary: In some cases, the starting salary may be non-negotiable.

+ You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE, TRAINING & ELIGIBILITY

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

+ One year as an Information Security Specialist 1;or

+ Three years of experience performing technical work in information technology security, and an associate’s degree in any information technology field;or

+ One year of experience performing technical work in information technology security, and a bachelor’s degree in any information technology field;or

+ An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Other Requirements:

+ You must meet the PA residency requirement (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) . For more information on ways to meet PA residency requirements, follow the link (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) and click on Residency.

+ You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Legal Requirements:

+ A conditional offer of employment will require submission of criminal history reports. See hiring agency contact information.

How to Apply:

+ Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents willnotbe reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).

+ If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.

+ Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.

+ Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.

Veterans:

+ Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. §7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

+ 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.

EXAMINATION INFORMATION

+ Completing the application, including all supplemental questions, serves as your exam for this position. No additional exam is required at a test center (also referred to as a written exam).

+ Your score is based on the detailed information you provide on your application and in response to the supplemental questions.

+ Your score is valid for this specific posting only.

+ You must provide complete and accurate information or:

+ your score may be lower than deserved.

+ you may be disqualified.

+ You may only apply/testoncefor this posting.

+ Your results will be provided via email.

Learn more about our Total Rewards by watching this shortvideo (https://www.youtube.com/embed/HtcSRnndflc?rel=0) !

See the total value of your benefits package by exploring ourbenefits calculator.

Health & Wellness

We offer multiple health plans so our employees can choose what works best for themselves and their families. Our comprehensive benefits package includes health coverage, vision, dental, and wellness programs.*

Compensation & Financial Planning

We invest in our employees by providing competitive wages and encouraging financial wellness by offering multiple ways to save money and ensure peace of mind including multiple retirement and investment plan options.

Work/Life Balance

We know there’s more to life than just work! Our generous paid leave benefits include paid vacation, paid sick leave, eight weeks of paid parental leave, military leave, and paid time off for most major U.S. holidays, as well as flexible work schedules and work-from-home opportunities.*

Values and Culture

We believe in the work we do and provide continual opportunities for our employees to grow and contribute to the greater good. As one of the largest employers in the state, we provide opportunities for internal mobility, professional development, and the opportunity to give back by participating in workplace charitable giving.

Employee Perks

Sometimes, it is the little “extras” that make a big difference. Our employees receive special employee-only discounts and rates on a variety of services and memberships.

For more information on all of these Total Rewards benefits, please visitwww.employment.pa.gov and click on the benefits box.

*Eligibility rules apply.

01

Have you been employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as an Information Security Specialist 1 for at least one full year?

+ Yes

+ No

02

If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experiencemustalso be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.

03

How many years of full-time technical information technology security experience do you possess?

+ 1 year or more

+ 6 months to less than 1 year

+ Less than 6 months

+ No experience

04

If you are claiming experience in the above question, please list the employer(s) where you gained this experience in the text box below. The employer(s) and a description of the experiencemustalso be included in the appropriate sections of your application if you would like the experience to be considered in the eligibility decision. If you claimed you do not have experience, type N/A in the text box below.

05

How much graduate education do you possess in information technology security? If you are claiming credits/degree, you must upload a copy of your college transcript(s) for this education to be considered in the eligibility decision. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable. You must attach your transcript(s) prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a transcript(s) to the application after it has been submitted.

If your education was acquired outside of the United States, you must upload a copy of your foreign credential evaluation report. We can only accept foreign credential evaluations from organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Services (NACES). A list of current NACES members can be found by visitingwww.naces.org (”www.naces.org”target=_blank”) and clicking the Evaluation Services Link.

For additional information on foreign education credentials, please visithttps://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx#q3and click on Other Information.You must attach your documentation prior to the submission of your application by using the "Attachments" tab on the left. You will not be able to add a document to the application after it has been submitted.

+ A conferred master's degree

+ 30 credits or more

+ 15 credits but less than 30

+ Some graduate coursework

+ None

06

You must complete the supplemental questions below. These supplemental questions are the exam and will be scored. They are designed to give you the opportunity to relate your experience and training background to the major activities (Work Behaviors) performed in this position. Failure to provide complete and accurate information may delay the processing of your application or result in a lower-than-deserved score or disqualification. Youmustcomplete the applicationandanswer the supplemental questions. Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents willnotbe reviewed for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position or to determine your score.

All information you provide on your application and supplemental questions is subject to verification. Any misrepresentation, falsification or omission of material facts is subject to penalty. If requested, you must provide documentation, including names, addresses, and telephone numbers of individuals who can verify the validity of the information you provide in the application and supplemental questions.

Read each question carefully. Determine and select which "Level of Performance" most closely represents your highest level of experience/training. List the employer(s)/training source(s) from your Work or Education sections of the application where you gained this experience/training.The "Level of Performance" you choose must be clearly supported within the description of the experience and training information entered in your application or your score may be lowered.In order to receive credit for experience, you must have worked in a job for at least six months in which the experience claimed was a major function.

If you have read and understand these instructions, please click on the "Yes" button and proceed to the exam questions.

If you have general questions regarding the application and hiring process, please refer to ourFAQ page (https://www.employment.pa.gov/Additional%20Info/Pages/default.aspx) .

+ Yes

07

WORK BEHAVIOR 1 – SECURITY AND NETWORK PERFORMANCE MONITORING

Monitors and analyzes network and system performance to detect security threats, deficiencies, and operational malfunctions. Uses performance and threat data to guide corrective actions, optimize network efficiency, and mitigate risks. Collaborates with developers, architects, and other stakeholders to ensure security measures and performance optimizations are integrated into system and software design. Utilizes network management tools to support long-term planning and maintain high availability and resilience.

Levels of Performance

Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim.

+ A.I have experience monitoring and testing applications and systems. I was responsible for managing security threats and ensuring corrective action was taken.

+ B. I have experience monitoring and testing applications and systems. I was responsible for notifying the appropriate staff of security threats so corrective action could be taken.

+ C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to information security monitoring or testing, cybersecurity, or risk mitigation.

+ D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.

08

In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.

+ The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.

+ The specific duties you performed related to monitoring and/or testing networks/systems for security.

+ Your level of responsibility.

09

If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.

+ College/University

+ Course Title

+ Credits/Clock Hours

10

WORK BEHAVIOR 2 – TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE

Responds to escalated incidents by troubleshooting and diagnosing security issues and coordinates with end users and service providers to resolve issues. Provides advice and guidance to business areas on the importance and financial impact of security threats. Researches current security solutions and informs management of emerging technologies.

Levels of Performance

Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim.

+ A. I have experience troubleshooting, diagnosing, and resolving escalated information technology issues. I was responsible for responding to complex technical questions and providing guidance as necessary.

+ B. I have experience troubleshooting and resolving information technology issues. I was responsible for responding to questions and resolving routine issues but referred more complex technical questions and issues to someone else for resolution.

+ C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to information technology troubleshooting.

+ D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.

11

In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.

+ The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.

+ The specific duties you performed related to the technical assistance you provided.

+ The type(s) of issues you diagnosed, troubleshot, and/or resolved.

+ Your level of responsibility.

12

If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.

+ College/University

+ Course Title

+ Credits/Clock Hours

13

WORK BEHAVIOR 3 – INSTALLING/TESTING HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE

Installs and tests network hardware and software including routers, switches, firewalls, or network cabling. Utilizes various tools to test, verify, troubleshoot, and resolve issues. Configures routers, switches, and other hardware and software components. Evaluates and applies all updates, patches, and service packs to equipment and software as needed.

Levels of Performance

Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim.

+ A. I have experience installing and testing network hardware and software. I evaluated the need for updates, patches, and service packs and applied these products when appropriate.

+ B. I have experience installing and testing network hardware and software. I applied updates, patches, and services packs based on evaluations and recommendations from other staff.

+ C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to hardware and software installation and maintenance.

+ D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.

14

In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.

+ The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.

+ The actual duties you performed related to installing and testing hardware and software.

+ Your level of responsibility.

15

If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.

+ College/University

+ Course Title

+ Credits/Clock Hours

16

WORK BEHAVIOR 4 – DEVELOPING STANDARDS AND PROCEDURES

Develops the standards and procedures for network resources. Develops and implements policies, plans, and standards related to security mechanisms, business standards, and disaster recovery. Develops and approves network optimization standards.

Levels of Performance

Select the Level of Performance that best describes your claim.

+ A. I have experience developing information technology standards, policies, and procedures. I was also responsible for implementing changes to these standards, policies, and procedures as necessary.

+ B. I have experience implementing information technology standards, policies, and procedures that were developed by someone else. I provided feedback and recommendations for changes to these standards, policies, and procedures.

+ C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to policy development or data analysis.

+ D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.

17

In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.

+ The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.

+ The actual duties you performed related to developing standards, policies, and procedures.

+ The type(s) of standards, policies, and procedures you developed.

+ Your level of responsibility.

18

If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the three items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.

+ College/University

+ Course Title

+ Credits/Clock Hours

19

WORK BEHAVIOR 5 – SECURITYDetermines and establishes the access control methods and standards for various equipment such as firewalls, switches, routers, or other communication hardware to support the security of the network. Researches current security solutions and informs management of emerging technologies.Levels of PerformanceSelect the Level of Performance that best describes your claim.

+ A. I have experience ESTABLISHING access control methods and standards for security in a network environment. I was RESPONSIBLE FOR RESEARCHING current security solutions and their potential impacts regarding network security.

+ B. I have experience RESEARCHING security solutions and their potential impacts regarding network security. I PROVIDED RECOMMENDATIONS but someone else determined the access control methods and standards for security in a network environment.

+ C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to network security.

+ D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.

20

In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.

+ The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.

+ The actual duties you performed related to security.

+ Your level of responsibility

21

If you have selected the level of performance pertaining to college coursework, please provide your responses to the items listed below. If you indicated you have no education/training related to this work behavior, type N/A in the text box below.

+ College/University

+ Course/Title

+ Credit/Clock Hours

22

WORK BEHAVIOR 6 – FIREWALL ADMINISTRATIONDevelops firewall filters based on established policies and industry best practices to secure and regulate network traffic. Monitors firewall systems to identify client/server vulnerabilities, malware, and worm signatures and identify any intrusion attempts. Makes changes as needed.Levels of PerformanceSelect the Level of Performance that best describes your claim.

+ A. I have experience developing firewall filters to secure and regulate network traffic. I was responsible for monitoring firewall systems to identify client/server vulnerabilities and intrusion attempts.

+ B. I have experience monitoring firewall systems to identify client/server vulnerabilities and intrusion attempts. Someone else developed the firewall filters.

+ C. I have successfully completed college-level coursework related to information security monitoring.

+ D. I have NO experience or coursework related to this work behavior.

23

In the text box below, please describe your experience as it relates to the level of performance you claimed in this work behavior. Please be sure your response addresses the items listed below which relate to your claim. If you indicated you have no work experience related to this work behavior, type N/A in the box below.

+ The name(s) of the employer(s) where you gained this experience.

+ The actual duties you performed related to firewall administration.

+ The types of firewall filters you developed.

+ Your level of responsibility.

Required Question

Employer

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Address

613 North Street

Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 17120

Website

http://www.employment.pa.gov