Embark on a Global Career: International Partnership Specialist with the Illinois National Guard
Are you looking to merge your passion for diplomacy, military strategy, and program management? The Illinois National Guard is offering an exceptional opportunity for a motivated leader to serve as an International Partnership Specialist (Title 32) in Springfield, IL. This role is not just a job; it is a mission to build and maintain the bridges that keep our world secure.
Job Responsibilities
As an International Partnership Specialist, you are the architect of the State Partnership Program (SPP). Your responsibilities include:
- Strategic Planning: Researching, writing, and presenting comprehensive campaign plans for international partners.
- Budgeting: Developing and analyzing fiscal budgets to ensure long-term program success.
- Coordination: Organizing senior executive visits and joint military exercises both domestically and overseas.
- Logistics: Managing every detail of international deployments, including clearances, transportation, and support requirements.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Requirement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-11 equivalent | Must be specialized/managerial |
| Membership | IL National Guard | Mandatory for employment |
| Certification | DoD SCW Practitioner | Must obtain within 2 years |
| Education | Not applicable | Experience is the sole qualifier |
Requirements
This is an excepted service position, meaning it comes with specific requirements including active membership in the Illinois National Guard. You must also maintain the military rank of O2-O4 and be prepared for potential travel and extended hours. Candidates must meet the requirements of the Lautenberg Amendment and undergo a thorough background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $116,362 annually. Working within the federal system provides stability and a comprehensive benefits framework designed to support you and your family.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your resume is concise and strictly follows the 2-page limit. Emphasize your specialized experience—specifically highlighting where you have managed budgets, developed policies, or led team efforts. Always double-check your submission before the deadline, and ensure all required documentation, especially the NGIL Form 73, is completed accurately.
This is a unique chance to advance your career while performing work that truly matters. If you are ready to serve your state and country on the international stage, we encourage you to review the full requirements and submit your application today.
Why This International Partnership Specialist (Title 32) Job Matters
Forge global alliances as an International Partnership Specialist with the Illinois National Guard, where your strategic leadership bridges nations and secures our shared future.
International Partnership Specialist (Title 32) Job Overview
The Illinois National Guard is seeking a dedicated professional to serve as an International Partnership Specialist (Title 32). In this pivotal GS-12 role, you will be at the forefront of the State Partnership Program (SPP), orchestrating high-level collaborations between the Illinois National Guard and international partner nations. This is a unique opportunity to shape diplomatic relations, manage significant budgetary assets, and lead military cooperation efforts that span the globe. You will coordinate with the National Guard Bureau, the Geographic Combatant Commands, and foreign ministries to execute campaign plans that strengthen security, training, and operational interoperability.
Requirements for International Partnership Specialist (Title 32)
- Must be or be willing to become a member of the Illinois National Guard.
- Must hold military rank of O2-O4.
- Must possess at least 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
- Must obtain and maintain Department of Defense Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) Certification.
- Must be able to pass a background investigation for a Secret security clearance.
- Must be registered for Selective Service if born after December 31, 1959.
- Must be able to work irregular hours and potential overtime to support mission requirements.
- Must strictly adhere to the Lautenberg Amendment regarding domestic violence convictions.
Preferred Qualifications for International Partnership Specialist (Title 32)
- Proven experience in developing and managing complex budgetary plans for international operations.
- Strong background in military campaign planning and high-level diplomatic coordination.
- Demonstrated ability to lead Senior Executive visits and joint military exercises.
- Proficiency in administrative, technical, and analytical writing for high-stakes policy development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Federal employee benefits package
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
- âś“Mission-driven work with global reach
- âś“Supportive work environment within the National Guard structure
đź’ˇ How to Apply International Partnership Specialist (Title 32) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for International Partnership Specialist (Title 32) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement and prepare your federal resume (maximum 2 pages).
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Gather required documents, including your SF-50 (if applicable) and the NGIL Form 73.
- Upload all documents to the portal, ensuring your resume covers specialized experience in detail.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details dates of employment (Month/Year) and hours worked per week.
- Use your own words; do not copy-paste the vacancy announcement text into your resume.
- Double-check that your resume does not exceed the 2-page limit.
- Confirm your eligibility for Illinois National Guard membership before applying.
- Monitor your email for status notifications following your submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a member of the Illinois National Guard?
Yes, this is a Title 32 Excepted Service position, which requires current or future membership in the Illinois National Guard as a condition of employment.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this specific series and grade level require qualifying experience only. Education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience requirement.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is designated as Noncritical-Sensitive and requires a Secret security clearance.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States. With a legacy dating back to the colonial era, the Guard serves both local communities during emergencies and the nation during times of crisis. As a member of the Illinois National Guard, you are part of a proud tradition of citizen-soldiers dedicated to defense, humanitarian aid, and global partnership.