Advance Your Career: Telecommunications Specialist Joint Duty Assignment at DHS
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) offers a unique and prestigious opportunity for current federal employees to expand their professional horizons through the Joint Duty Program (JDP). We are currently seeking a highly motivated Telecommunications Specialist to join our team in Lorton, Virginia. This 120-day assignment is designed to sharpen your technical expertise, foster interagency relationships, and provide a broader perspective on federal wireless communications.
Job Responsibilities
As a Telecommunications Specialist, you will oversee the enterprise-wide spectrum management and wireless communications program. Your core responsibilities include:
- Coordination: Serving as the primary point of contact for spectrum-related initiatives between DHS components, the FCC, and the NTIA.
- Technical Analysis: Managing radio frequency assignments, conducting interference resolution, and designing systems that support mission-critical operations.
- Documentation: Preparing and modifying certification packages for spectrum-dependent systems in compliance with the 'Redbook' standards using the ECO portal.
- Representation: Serving as an active member of the Interdepartmental Radio Advisory Committee (IRAC).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Level | GS-12 to GS-14 |
| Location | Lorton, Virginia |
| Duration | 120 Days |
| Security Clearance | Secret |
Requirements
To be eligible for this detail, candidates must be current, full-time federal employees with the ability to secure the necessary supervisory approvals. A thorough understanding of wireless infrastructure, including UHF, VHF, and microwave systems, is essential. Additionally, you must be capable of navigating the regulatory landscape of federal frequency management.
Salary Overview
This position provides a competitive federal salary consistent with your current GS-12 through GS-15 grade level. The salary range for this opportunity is $102,415 to $187,093 per year, depending on your current classification and steps. Please note that this assignment does not include temporary promotions or additional compensation beyond your existing federal pay.
Benefits
The primary benefit of this assignment is the career-enhancing professional growth you will achieve. By working within the DHS Joint Duty Program, you will gain exposure to high-level strategic operations and build a network that spans multiple federal agencies. You will maintain your existing federal benefits and tenure status throughout the duration of your assignment.
Application Tips
- Be Comprehensive: Ensure your resume clearly outlines your specific duties, series, and grade levels. We cannot make assumptions about your previous experience.
- Review Documents: Double-check that your SF-50 and signed DHS Form 250-02 are included and legible before submission.
- Use the Portal: All applications must be submitted via the official USAJOBS platform.
If you are a dedicated professional seeking to advance your knowledge of wireless communications and impact national security at the highest level, this assignment is the ideal next step in your career. Apply today to join the DHS team in Lorton and help us secure our nation's future.
Why This Telecommunications Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your federal career by joining the Department of Homeland Security in a pivotal Joint Duty Assignment managing critical national spectrum resources.
Telecommunications Specialist Job Overview
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking a skilled Telecommunications Specialist (GS-12 to GS-14) for a 120-day, non-reimbursable Joint Duty Assignment based in Lorton, Virginia. This role is designed for current, full-time federal employees looking to expand their expertise in enterprise-wide spectrum management and wireless communications. You will represent the DHS in high-level interagency forums and play a vital role in ensuring the operational readiness of mission-critical wireless systems.
Requirements for Telecommunications Specialist
- Must be a current, full-time federal employee.
- Active Secret security clearance.
- Proven expertise in spectrum management and wireless communications.
- Experience with radio frequency assignments and federal certification of systems.
- Ability to complete the DHS Joint Duty Assignment application process, including supervisory approval.
- Proficiency in technical analysis and interference resolution.
Preferred Qualifications for Telecommunications Specialist
- In-depth knowledge of analog, digital, HF, VHF, UHF, microwave, and satellite communications.
- Familiarity with the Manual of Regulations for Federal Radio Frequency Management (Redbook).
- Experience using the EL CID online (ECO) portal for certification packages.
- Demonstrated ability to lead interagency coordination and committee representations.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Professional development through the Joint Duty Program.
- ✓Exposure to interagency operations and high-level national policy.
- ✓Networking opportunities across diverse DHS components.
- ✓Standard federal employee benefits remain intact during the detail.
💡 How to Apply Telecommunications Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Telecommunications Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the specific duties to ensure your resume highlights relevant experience.
- Obtain and sign the DHS Joint Duty Assignment application form with your supervisor's approval.
- Upload your federal resume, SF-50, and the signed JDA application form.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your application package before the January 8, 2027, deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use your resume to describe duties in detail, including your official federal series and grade.
- Include contact details: Ensure your supervisor’s name, phone number, and email are clearly listed for verification.
- Avoid PII: Remove your home address, social security number, and date of birth from your resume.
- Stay current: The hiring office reviews resumes every 30 days, so submit your application as early as possible.
- Check your status: Monitor your USAJOBS account regularly for updates on your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Joint Duty Assignment?
A Joint Duty Assignment (JDA) is a developmental opportunity for current federal employees to work with other DHS components or agencies to gain cross-functional experience.
Will I receive a promotion or pay increase?
No, this is a 120-day detail that does not offer temporary promotions or additional salary beyond what you already receive in your permanent federal position.
Can I work remotely?
This position requires the incumbent to be based in Lorton, Virginia. Telework eligibility depends on office needs and is subject to change.
Is there educational substitution for this role?
No, there is no educational substitution for this position; practical experience is required.
Can I apply if I am a contractor?
No, the Joint Duty Program is exclusively for current federal employees.
Job from Department Of Homeland Security - Agency Wide
The Department of Homeland Security is committed to securing the nation against a variety of complex threats. From cybersecurity to disaster resilience, DHS components collaborate to protect American interests. The Joint Duty Program serves as a cornerstone of this mission, allowing civilian professionals to gain multi-faceted experience and contribute to the unity of effort across our diverse organizational landscape.