Embark on a Rewarding Career as a Traffic Management Specialist with the South Dakota Air National Guard

The South Dakota National Guard offers a unique pathway for dedicated military members to transition into fulfilling full-time civilian careers while maintaining their military affiliation. The position of Traffic Management Specialist (Title 32) in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, presents a compelling opportunity for individuals with expertise in logistics and transportation to contribute significantly to national defense and state missions. This role is essential for ensuring the seamless movement of vital resources, equipment, and personnel, underpinning the operational readiness of the Air National Guard. If you are a seasoned Air National Guardsman looking for a stable, full-time career with excellent benefits and a chance to leverage your skills, this position warrants your close attention.

About the South Dakota National Guard

The South Dakota National Guard operates with a dual mission, serving both the state and federal government. In its state capacity, it supports civil authorities in protecting lives and property, maintaining peace, and preserving public safety under the governor's direction. Federally, it provides combat-ready, mission-capable forces essential for the entire spectrum of conflict, as directed by the President. This dual role emphasizes the Guard's critical importance in both domestic response and national security. Joining the South Dakota National Guard means becoming part of an organization committed to excellence, readiness, and service to the community and the nation.

Job Responsibilities: Traffic Management Specialist (GS-11)

As a Traffic Management Specialist, GS-2130-11, stationed within the Distribution Section of the Deployment and Distribution Flight, Logistics Readiness Squadron, you will serve as a critical Distribution Manager. Your primary function will be to provide expert technical guidance and support for the movement of equipment, supplies, and personnel, crucial for both peacetime operations and wartime readiness. This role involves significant leadership and analytical duties, including:

• Program Management: Directing, developing, planning, and analyzing deployment and distribution management programs to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.
• Policy Development: Contributing to the creation and administration of policies that govern traffic management programs.
• Operational Oversight: Planning and directing traffic operations to ensure the economical and efficient transportation of goods and personnel.
• Technical Expertise: Applying in-depth knowledge of traffic management principles, commercial transportation activities, and industry best practices.
• Regulatory Compliance: Interpreting and ensuring adherence to federal, state, and local laws and regulations concerning transportation and traffic procedures.
• System Analysis: Understanding and applying knowledge of transportation requirements and systems across various geographic areas, both domestically and internationally.
• Problem Resolution: Identifying, analyzing, and resolving complex transportation issues and challenges.
• Financial Management: Managing budgetary requirements, including performing monthly reconciliations of all charges associated with the transportation program.

This position demands a proactive approach, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Requirements for the Role

To be considered for this Traffic Management Specialist position, candidates must meet specific military and general experience criteria. Eligibility is restricted to current members of the South Dakota Air National Guard. Key requirements include:

• Military Membership: You must be a current member of the South Dakota Air National Guard.
• Rank Eligibility: Eligible military ranks are Master Sergeant (MSgt) through Chief Master Sergeant (CMSgt).
• Military Specialty: Applicants must possess, or be able to obtain, the Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) 2T0X1. Upon selection, individuals will be required to be assigned to a compatible military AFSC/MOS as per statutes and National Guard Bureau regulations.
• Grade Inversion: A critical rule is the prevention of military grade inversion. The military grade of the full-time supervisor must be equal to or exceed the military grade of personnel under their supervision.

General Experience:

Candidates must demonstrate experience in developing policies and administering traffic management programs. This includes experience in planning and directing traffic operations, as well as performing technical work related to the efficient transportation of equipment, supplies, and personnel.

Specialized Experience:

At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-10 or equivalent) is required. This experience should encompass:

• Performing, administering, or supervising technical and analytical work focused on the planning, development, and execution of traffic policies and programs.
• Interpreting applicable Federal, State, and local laws and regulations pertinent to transportation and traffic procedures.
• Possessing knowledge of transportation requirements and systems relevant to specific geographic areas, both within the Continental United States and internationally.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):

While not explicitly required to be submitted as part of the initial application, applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare separate documentation addressing the following KSAs to further demonstrate their qualifications:

• A broad understanding of traffic management policies, principles, and practices.
• In-depth knowledge of commercial traffic management activities.
• Familiarity with industry practices, procedures, and established regulations, requirements, and techniques in transportation programs.
• The ability to apply knowledge of organizational practices to plan and execute complex work assignments.
• Skill in identifying, analyzing, and resolving transportation issues or problems.
• Sufficient knowledge of financial/budgetary requirements to perform monthly reconciliation of transportation program charges.

Salary Overview

The Traffic Management Specialist position is graded at the GS-11 level. The annual salary for this role is competitive, ranging from $74,678 to $97,087 per year. This salary reflects the specialized skills, experience, and responsibilities associated with managing critical transportation and logistics operations within the Air National Guard.

Benefits Package

As a federal employee and a Title 32 technician, you will be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and financial security. These benefits may include:

• Health Insurance: Generous federal health insurance plans.
• Retirement Program: Participation in a robust federal retirement system.
• Leave: Accrual of annual leave (vacation) and sick leave.
• Life Insurance: Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance (FEGLI).
• Long Term Care Insurance: Options for long-term care insurance.
• Flexible Spending Accounts: For healthcare and dependent care expenses.
• Additional Incentives: Depending on budget availability, recruitment or relocation incentives may be offered to facilitate your transition.

Important Note on Military Incentives: Military Technicians generally become ineligible for certain military enlistment, retention, and student loan repayment bonuses once they accept a technician position for more than 180 days. It is advisable to consult with the South Dakota Air National Guard Education Services Office for precise details.

Application Process

Applying for this exciting opportunity involves several key steps through the USAJOBS platform:

1. Create or Log In: Ensure you have a USAJOBS account. If not, create one.
2. Access Application: Click the 'Apply' button on the job announcement to begin.
3. Complete Online Application: Fill out the online application form accurately and completely.
4. Upload Documents: Submit all required supporting documents, including your resume and any optional KSA statements or transcripts.
5. Resume Details: Your resume is crucial. It must include dates of employment (Month and Year), hours worked per week, and detailed descriptions of duties performed for each position held. For KSAs, ensure your resume reflects experience in those areas.
6. Submission Deadline: All applications must be submitted by July 17, 2026, at 11:59 PM EST.

Key Document Requirements:

• Resume: Maximum of 2 pages. Must be comprehensive.
• KSAs: Applicants are STRONGLY encouraged to submit a separate document addressing KSAs.
• Transcripts: If claiming credit for education, submit official transcripts.

Application Tips for Success

To maximize your chances of being selected, consider these strategic tips:

• Tailor Your Resume: Carefully align your resume content with the specific duties and requirements listed in the job announcement. Use keywords from the announcement where appropriate.
• Highlight Achievements: Instead of just listing duties, quantify your accomplishments and highlight successes in previous roles, particularly those related to traffic management, logistics, and policy implementation.
• Address KSAs: Even if not mandatory, dedicating time to articulate your qualifications against the KSAs can differentiate your application significantly. Use specific examples.
• Thorough Review: Before submitting, meticulously review your entire application package for any errors or omissions. Ensure all contact information is up-to-date.
• Understand Status: Familiarize yourself with the application status definitions on USAJOBS (e.g., 'Received,' 'Referred') to track your progress.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

| Question | Answer A comprehensive comparison table detailing the core differences between the civilian and military technician roles can further clarify career paths.

Serving as a Traffic Management Specialist within the South Dakota Air National Guard offers a dynamic and impactful career choice for eligible Guard members. It blends the stability and benefits of a federal civilian position with the unique structure and mission of the military technician role. This opportunity provides a platform to utilize and expand specialized logistics and transportation skills while contributing to critical state and federal missions. If you meet the requirements and are ready for a challenging and rewarding full-time career, consider applying for this vital position.