FOIA Specialist I/II/III - Ahtna Professional Services

Summary As a FOIA Specialist, you will process FOIA/PA (Freedom of Information Act/Privacy Act) requests from 'cradle to grave.' You will research and analyze FOIA/PA information to respond to requests and develop status reports to support reporting requirements, prepare responses to FOIA/PA requesters and management as requested, and liaise as directed by management with agencies on FOIA/PA related matters. You will conduct research on applicable case law and federal regulations on FOIA/PA requests to resolve issues and use information technology in administering and managing information, as well as for a wide variety of record keeping, correspondence, and tracking operations throughout the government information management lifecycle. The specialist will conduct independent analysis and apply FOIA and PA exemptions and/or exclusions as appropriate. The FOIA specialist should have experience applying the following exemptions: Exemptions 4, 5, 6, and 7. Essential Duties and Responsibilities The FOIA Specialist responsibilities include, but are not limited to: Review, analyze, and perfect FOIA requests; contact the requester either by phone, email, or mail for clarifications about the request. Prepare and send 'submitter notices' to submitters and request that they provide arguments and explanations related to the withholding of potentially confidential commercial information. Review and provide an analysis of the submitters' recommendations for consistency with the Agency's regulations, policies, and practices. Provide notifications to the submitter advising of the Agency's varied determination and the intent to release information within 72 hours. Prepare and transmit to the requester a standard acknowledgement letter using USAID's templates, exercising judgment to determine when letters must be tailored to meet unique circumstances. Task and obtain requested documentation from the appropriate USAID operating units and provide those units with clear instructions on the required release recommendations and justifications for withholding information. Provide progress reports to the requester and document the administrative file. Analyze documentation provided by the operating units for responsiveness and releasability, working with the operating units and/or USAID's Office of the General Counsel (GC) to determine the detrimental effects of releasing the requested documents. Prepare/transmit formal FOIA responses for a variety of audiences, ensuring responses conform to Agency standards and clearance procedures. Maintain updated and concise electronic files and make disclosure recommendations. Track the status of pending cases and answer internal and public inquiries regarding the FOIA process. Evaluate sensitive requests for information to determine whether to recommend release or denial based on the Privacy Act or FOIA. Prepare and draft correspondence relating to privacy and disclosure issues. Perform statistical analysis of database systems to determine future needs/adjustments for organizational efficiency. Maintain accurate and complete administrative records of actions taken throughout the processing of FOIA/PA requests. Minimum Qualifications: High School diploma or equivalent Must have U.S. citizenship Requires a Security Clearance: Must have a Department of Defense clearance. Must be fluent in speaking and writing in English. Pre-Employment Screening: Must be able to pass criminal background screen, drug test, and physical exam. Must be familiar with database operations and word processing systems Must be proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite Must have strong researching and resolution skills Ability to interpret and apply regulations and procedures concerning all FOIA Exemptions Ability to do repetitive tasks while remaining prepared to take on auxiliary duties on short notice Excellent verbal and written communication skills Comprehensive knowledge of MS Office Excellent analytical skills Ability to work independently under general guidance Understanding of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act (PA) Willingness to learn and invest in self-development Demonstrated ability to produce consistently high-quality work under fluid conditions Strong organizational, clerical, and customer service skills Work Schedule:

Generally, Monday through Friday, standard business hours. Evening and/or weekend hours may be required. Work Environment:

Generally, indoors. While outdoors may be subject to construction site conditions, confined spaces, changes in temperature, weather conditions, and noise levels.

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