Government Information Specialist (FOIA)

Government Information Specialist

The Government Information Specialist applies experience and expert knowledge of the analysis, dissemination, and management of government information policies and procedures. Serves as a recognized subject matter expert in the application of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Leads teams in researching, analyzing, and evaluating information to respond to highly complex and challenging FOIA requests under the minimal direction of the Team Manager. This position provides logistical support to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) offices responsible for litigation and enforcement activities.

As a principal specialist, reviews FOIA requests to develop innovative policy-based processes, procedures, or standard operating procedures used by FOIA coordinators in ATO Headquarters service units and the service center FOIA offices, while taking into consideration FAA policies, Government-wide rules and regulations, and external concerns. May create new solutions and policy interpretations as required. Keeps abreast of recent developments in the field of disclosure, including recent court decisions, department decisions, and current legislative resolutions to ensure that FOIA coordinators comply with Federal laws governing the flow of information. Safeguards Government information while supporting accountability and transparency initiatives.

As the expert on FOIA, provides expert guidance and instruction both internally and externally to address diverse, complex issues which often cross multiple projects, programs, and/or functional areas. Analyzes and addresses complex and sensitive issues and develops solutions to address conflicting FOIA related matters. Assembles cross-organizational teams to compile and develop complex FOIA responses, as needed. Identifies and resolves challenging problems or issues that often cross organizational boundaries and impact on the accomplishment of strategic objectives. Develops and recommends approaches to address current and anticipated problems and issues. Works with senior management to identify and resolve problems.

Guides and trains FOIA coordinators in all ATO Service Units on data protection procedures and practices. Provide analytical support to coordinators in processing FOIA requests and assigning them to the appropriate service unit, directorate or staff office. Serves as liaison to external customers and requesters to clarify and resolve issues. Verifies and correlates information to determine if the request is specific enough to answer. If not, coordinate with the requester for clarification. Performs research to identify and review responsive records for making a disclosure determination. Reviews and assembles proposed FOIA response packages for FOIA requests assigned to ATO Headquarters, prior to final signature by the respective service unit Vice President. Utilizes automated FOIA systems to develop and review responses, and to maintain files and records.

Contacts are internal and external to Safety and Technical Training and include FOIA Coordinators throughout the ATO as well as other stakeholders, Congress and the public. Often represents the major subdivision and LOB/SO as a principal point of contact to provide advice and guidance on the applications of FOIA policies and procedures, may include leading high-level training sessions. Prepares, reviews, and recommends approvals of major reports on projects, programs and other work activities for internal and external distribution. Develops briefings to convey strategic vision and/or organizational policies to internal and external audiences.

Although broad policies and objectives provide general guidance for addressing issues, the FOIA Specialist is often required to develop new approaches. The Team Manager reviews work only at completion for success in achieving planned results. Has broad discretion to ensure the alignment of organizational goals and policies and the requirements of the projects and/or other work activities.