FOIA Analyst

Job Description

Description:

First Principles & Concepts (FP&C) is seeking an experienced FOIA Analyst to support the processing of Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, including assisting with backlog reduction and related activities for the Department of Energy (DOE). This role requires expertise in DOE FOIA processes, proficiency with FOIAXpress (or similar case management software), and required experience with FOIA Exemption 4.

Key Responsibilities

Process the full range of simple, complex, and time-sensitive FOIA requests in compliance with statutory requirements, DOE regulations, and applicable guidelines.

Review and analyze a wide array of incoming FOIA requests to determine the scope of the underlying request, identify applicable legal issues, and assess the applicability of statutory exemptions, particularly Exemption 4.

Enter, track, and close FOIA cases in FOIAXpress.

Draft and send acknowledgement, interim, and final action letters.

Determine requester and fee categories.

Locate and obtain responsive records, ensuring proper search certifications.

Review and redline responsive records; recommending appropriate exemptions.

Conduct redactions and prepare sanitized records for release.

Coordinate with subject matter experts, supervisors, General Counsel, Public Affairs, etc. as required by the customer for reviews and approvals.

Document all actions and approvals, maintaining comprehensive case notes.

Deliver redacted, approved records and correspondence to requesters if requested by the customer.

Support DOE staff on FOIA litigation matters as needed.

Identify process enhancement opportunities and collaborate on backlog reduction initiatives to improve timeliness and efficiency.

Provide timely updates and proactive communication with requesters and stakeholders as required by the customer.Requirements:

Education & Experience:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.

Minimum of five (5) years of experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

Knowledge and understanding of the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. § 552), including all nine statutory exemptions.

Demonstrated understanding and experience applying statutory exemptions, particularly FOIA Exemption 4 to records.

Strong background in DOE FOIA processes and use of FOIAXpress (or equivalent systems) to collect and manage FOIA requests.

Ability to determine responsiveness of records and apply exemptions appropriately.

Experience drafting acknowledgement, interim, and final action correspondence.

Skilled in reviewing, redacting, and preparing records for release.

Strong organizational skills with experience maintaining accurate case notes.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills for interacting with requesters and stakeholders.

Previous DOE experience is required.

Experience supporting FOIA litigation.

Demonstrated ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously and meet statutory deadlines.

Familiarity with federal records management practices.

Work Schedule

Consistent, full-time work expected Monday – Friday, eight hours per day in a focused and fast-paced environment.

Americans with Disabilities Specifications

Physical Demands: Work involves regular computer use, including typing, reading from a screen, and participating in virtual meetings. Individuals may choose to sit or stand as preferred in their home office environment.

Work Environment: Remote/home office with reliable internet access and a setup conducive to focused computer-based work.

Pay & Benefits

Salary offered will be commensurate with experience for individuals in similarly situated roles. FP&C offers a competitive benefits package including:

Health, Dental and Vision Insurance

Group Life, Short Term Disability and Long-Term Disability Insurance

401K with company match

Paid Time Off and Holidays

Supplemental Benefits

EEO Statement

FP&C is an equal opportunity employer, and we are committed to seeking, employing, and treating all employees and applicants for employment without discrimination based on all characteristics protected by federal, state and/or local laws. Applicants can learn more about the company’s status as an equal opportunity employer by viewing the federal “EEO is the Law” poster.

Full-time

Fully remote