Launch Your Career as an Intelligence Operations Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard, a vital component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is searching for a highly skilled Intelligence Operations Specialist to join their team in Portsmouth, Virginia. This role offers the unique opportunity to perform high-level analysis of maritime threats and contribute directly to the safety and security of our nation’s waterways. If you possess a background in intelligence, a sharp analytical mind, and a commitment to public service, this GS-12 opportunity may be the perfect step in your career.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will be tasked with:

Collecting and evaluating highly sensitive intelligence information from multiple sources.
Performing first-order analysis on threats to the maritime environment.
Developing and disseminating tactical and operational intelligence reports to command leadership.
Conducting long-range intelligence planning to anticipate future maritime threats.
Briefing and debriefing personnel returning from foreign travel to ensure security awareness.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must hold or be eligible for a Top Secret/SCI clearance.
Must have at least one full year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
Ability to pass a rigorous background investigation and pre-employment drug screening.

Salary and Benefits Comparison

Benefit Type	Details
Base Salary	$90,838 - $118,092 per year
Incentives	Up to 10% Recruitment/Relocation bonus (service agreement required)
Insurance	Comprehensive Health, Dental, Vision, and Life
Retirement	Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
Leave	Paid federal holidays and accrued personal leave

Application Tips

Respect the Constraints: Your resume must be two pages maximum. Any submission longer than this will be automatically disqualified by the system.
Avoid Plagiarism: Do not copy the duties listed in this announcement into your resume. Instead, describe your own past professional experiences that match these skills using original language.
Formatting: Use a font size of 10pt or larger and margins of at least 0.5 inches.

Serving as an Intelligence Operations Specialist with the U.S. Coast Guard in Portsmouth is a significant responsibility that offers immense professional rewards. If you are prepared to analyze the complex threats facing our maritime borders and contribute to a legacy of excellence, we encourage you to review the official job announcement and submit your application today.

Why This Intelligence Operations Specialist Job Matters

Protect our nation’s maritime interests and join the U.S. Coast Guard’s elite intelligence team in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Intelligence Operations Specialist Job Overview

The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Intelligence Operations Specialist to join the Sector Virginia Intelligence Staff. This pivotal role involves analyzing maritime threats, disseminating critical intelligence, and supporting tactical operations to ensure national security. You will be a key contributor to the Department of Homeland Security’s mission, influencing policy and operational strategies in a high-stakes environment.

Requirements for Intelligence Operations Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.
Completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
Must be registered with or exempt from the Selective Service system.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Must be able to pass a background investigation.
Direct deposit for salary payments is required.

Preferred Qualifications for Intelligence Operations Specialist

Extensive experience in intelligence report production and dissemination.
Proficiency in long-range intelligence planning and trend monitoring.
Strong analytical skills regarding maritime threats and foreign policy impact.
High proficiency in interpersonal communication, decision-making, and stress tolerance.
Experience briefing personnel on foreign travel and security protocols.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement).
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave.
✓Potential for student loan repayment up to $10,000.
✓Recruitment/Relocation incentives up to 10% for eligible candidates.
✓Access to fitness centers and wellness programs.

💡 How to Apply Intelligence Operations Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Intelligence Operations Specialist Job

Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS platform.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Submit your application, including all required documentation like transcripts and SF-50s.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified.
Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly under two pages with at least 10pt font and 0.5-inch margins.
Avoid copying the job announcement text directly into your resume as it will not be counted as valid experience.
Ensure all experience includes start/end dates and average hours worked per week.
Do not include personal information like Social Security Numbers or photos.
Complete all assessments promptly; you only have 48 hours once invited to the USA Hire system.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the security clearance level for this position?

This position requires a Top Secret/SCI security clearance.

Is telework allowed for this role?

This position is not currently listed as eligible for telework.

Are recruitment incentives available?

Yes, newly appointed federal employees may be eligible for a 10% recruitment incentive, and current employees moving to the area may be eligible for a 10% relocation incentive, both subject to a service agreement.

Is education a substitute for the experience requirement?

*A: No, for this specific grade level, experience is mandatory and education cannot be substituted.*

Can I apply if I do not currently hold a clearance?

*A: You must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance as a condition of employment.*

How do I know if I am eligible for the 10% bonus?

*A: Newly appointed federal employees or those moving to a new commuting area on a permanent appointment may be eligible for a one-time incentive, pending agency approval and a signed service agreement.*

Job from U.S. Coast Guard

The U.S. Coast Guard is committed to safeguarding maritime interests both domestically and internationally. From securing our ports and coastal waterways to enforcing federal maritime laws, the work performed at Sector Virginia is critical to national defense. As part of the DHS, you will join a collaborative environment that values professionalism, innovation, and unwavering integrity.