Advance Your Career: Continuity Plans and Policy Specialist at DHS
In the realm of national security, the ability to maintain operations during unforeseen disruptions is paramount. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is currently seeking a highly motivated Continuity Plans and Policy Specialist to join its ranks via the Joint Duty Program (JDP). This assignment is a premier opportunity for current federal employees to gain experience at the heart of our nation's emergency preparedness efforts.
About the Department of Homeland Security
The Department of Homeland Security serves as the frontline for preventing terrorism, securing borders, and ensuring the nation’s resilience against disasters. The Joint Duty Program is a strategic human capital initiative designed to facilitate collaboration across DHS components and outside agencies. By participating in this program, professionals gain cross-functional expertise, enhance mission execution, and contribute to a stronger, more unified Department.
Position Overview and Responsibilities
This role is a one-year, non-reimbursable detail based in Washington, D.C. As a specialist, you will be instrumental in the development of continuity evaluation programs.
Key responsibilities include:
- Developing and revising national-level continuity documentation.
- Researching and interpreting federal directives to guide component-level policy.
- Conducting Business Process and Business Impact Analyses.
- Delivering briefings to senior leadership regarding operational readiness.
Qualifications and Requirements
This position requires a sophisticated understanding of continuity of operations. You must demonstrate the ability to analyze complex challenges and translate them into actionable policy updates. Applicants should be proficient in Microsoft Office tools, as these are essential for report generation and stakeholder presentations.
Comparison of Assignment Types
| Feature | Joint Duty Assignment (JDA) | Standard Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | Up to 1 Year | Varies |
| Focus | Developmental/Cross-Component | Organizational Need |
| Promotion | Not Offered | Varies |
| Eligibility | GS-12 to GS-15 | Varies |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $102,415 to $197,200 per year. As a JDA participant, you retain your current federal employment status and benefits, ensuring continuity in your career progression and financial stability.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with a highly detailed resume. Ensure that your work history clearly highlights the series and grade of your federal positions. Because HR specialists cannot make assumptions regarding your background, be specific about your duties, the agency name, and your supervisor’s contact information.
- Submit Documentation Early: Do not wait until the November 11, 2026, deadline to upload your SF-50 and signed DHS Form 250-02.
- Verify Status: Log into your USAJOBS account to confirm that your uploaded documents have passed the mandatory virus scan.
If you are a federal employee seeking to make a tangible impact on national security policy, this Continuity Plans and Policy Specialist role offers an unparalleled developmental path. Prepare your application documentation today and take the next step in your career with the Department of Homeland Security.
Why This Continuity Plans And Policy Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of national resilience and continuity of operations as a key specialist within the Department of Homeland Security's premier Joint Duty Program.
Continuity Plans And Policy Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking a highly skilled Continuity Plans and Policy Specialist for a prestigious 1-year non-reimbursable Joint Duty Assignment. This role is designed for current federal employees (GS-12 to GS-15) looking to broaden their operational expertise by contributing to critical continuity evaluation programs. You will play a vital role in drafting national-level directives, conducting business process analyses, and briefing senior leadership to ensure the unwavering readiness of our national security infrastructure.
Requirements for Continuity Plans And Policy Specialist
- Must be a current, full-time federal employee.
- Proven experience in developing, coordinating, and reviewing continuity or emergency management policies.
- Ability to research, interpret, and brief complex directives to internal and external stakeholders.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, specifically Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Experience in preparing for and participating in executive-level response exercises.
- Strong analytical skills regarding operational challenges and risk mitigation strategies.
Preferred Qualifications for Continuity Plans And Policy Specialist
- Significant background in public policy development.
- Direct experience supporting executive-level response to real-world incidents.
- Familiarity with Department of Homeland Security components and collaborative inter-agency processes.
- Documented ability to perform Business Process and Business Impact Analyses at an enterprise level.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Professional development through high-level inter-agency collaboration.
- âś“Opportunity to influence national-level continuity and emergency directives.
- âś“Exposure to cross-functional DHS leadership and operations.
- âś“Retention of existing federal benefits package throughout the assignment.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Continuity Plans And Policy Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Continuity Plans And Policy Specialist Job
- Review your resume to ensure it details specific duties, agency name, and supervisor contact information.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to initiate the application process.
- Complete the required online assessment questionnaire.
- Submit your resume, official SF-50 (no text versions), and the signed DHS Joint Duty Assignment Application Form (DHS Form 250-02).
- Ensure all documents are uploaded and verified before the closing date of November 11, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be explicit in your resume; do not expect the hiring team to make assumptions about your experience levels.
- Clearly label your federal series, grade, and the specific timeframe (month and year) for every position listed.
- Avoid including PII such as your date of birth or home address in your resume.
- Double-check your application status in the USAJOBS portal after submission to ensure your documents have cleared the virus scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a permanent position?
No, this is a 1-year non-reimbursable Joint Duty Assignment (JDA) and does not result in a temporary promotion.
Who is eligible to apply?
The program is open to current, full-time federal employees at the GS-12 through GS-15 grade levels (or equivalent).
Do I need a security clearance for this role?
While specific security clearance is not initially listed as a prerequisite for application, selected individuals must maintain any required level of clearance assigned to the role throughout the duration of the duty.