PIV Card

Term from Government Services industry explained for recruiters

A PIV (Personal Identity Verification) Card is a special identification card used by federal employees and contractors to access government buildings and computer systems. Think of it like a very secure company ID badge that also works as a computer login card. It was created after a presidential directive to make government facilities more secure. When you see this on a resume, it usually means the person has worked in federal buildings or on government contracts where this high level of security clearance was required.

Examples in Resumes

Managed facility access systems supporting 500+ PIV Card holders

Implemented PIV Card and HSPD-12 compliant security protocols

Administered Personal Identity Verification systems for Department of Defense contractors

Typical job title: "Security Systems Administrators"

Also try searching for:

Physical Security Specialist Identity Management Specialist Security Systems Engineer Access Control Administrator Government Security Specialist Facility Security Officer Identity Access Manager

Where to Find Security Systems Administrators

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you manage a large-scale PIV card deployment across multiple facilities?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience with project management, understanding of security protocols, and ability to coordinate with different government agencies. They should mention training programs, compliance requirements, and system testing.

Q: What experience do you have with PIV card system auditing and compliance?

Expected Answer: Candidate should discuss experience with federal security standards, audit procedures, and maintaining compliance documentation. They should mention FIPS 201 requirements and security assessment processes.

Mid Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic components of a PIV card system?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain in simple terms: the card readers, software systems, database management, and basic security protocols. They should understand how these components work together.

Q: What are common issues with PIV card systems and how do you resolve them?

Expected Answer: Look for practical experience in troubleshooting card reader problems, handling user access issues, and maintaining system operation. Should know basic problem-solving procedures.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a PIV card and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that it's a secure ID card for government facilities and systems, and understand its basic purpose for security and access control.

Q: What are the basic security procedures for handling PIV cards?

Expected Answer: Should know basic security protocols like reporting lost cards, proper card handling, and basic access control procedures.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of PIV card systems
  • Familiarity with government security protocols
  • Basic troubleshooting of card readers
  • User support for PIV card issues

Mid (2-5 years)

  • PIV system maintenance and operations
  • Security compliance monitoring
  • User access management
  • System troubleshooting and support

Senior (5+ years)

  • PIV system implementation and oversight
  • Security policy development
  • Compliance audit management
  • Team leadership and training

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of federal security requirements
  • Lack of experience with government systems
  • No understanding of basic security protocols
  • Unable to explain compliance requirements
  • No security clearance history

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