Intelligence Operations Specialist: A Career in Maritime Security
Are you looking to take your career in intelligence to a higher level? The Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. Coast Guard are seeking a highly skilled Intelligence Operations Specialist to join their team. This position is a rare opportunity to contribute to the safety and security of America’s coastal waterways, ports, and maritime interests. As an Intelligence Operations Specialist, you will bridge the gap between complex data analysis and operational command decisions.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will be responsible for the full intelligence lifecycle:
- Collection and Analysis: Reviewing sensitive information from multiple sources to identify potential threats.
- Reporting: Producing high-quality intelligence reports for tactical and operational commanders.
- Planning: Leading long-range intelligence planning to minimize future maritime risks.
- Advisory: Providing subject-matter expertise on intelligence sources and foreign policy implications.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must meet specific criteria by the closing date of July 27, 2026. These include:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Ability to pass a rigorous background check for Top Secret/SCI clearance.
- Demonstration of at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level.
- Submission of a resume no longer than two pages.
Comparison of Benefits
| Benefit Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Retirement | Thrift Savings Plan (similar to 401k) |
| Insurance | Health, Dental, Vision, Life, Long-Term Care |
| Incentive | Up to $10,000 Student Loan Repayment |
| Work-Life | Paid Federal Holidays and Personal Leave |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $90,838 to $118,092 per year. Additionally, the Coast Guard provides various recruitment and relocation incentives for eligible candidates, often amounting to 10% of the salary, subject to service agreements.
Application Tips
- Focus on Quality: Highlight your past accomplishments in intelligence rather than repeating job descriptions.
- Documentation: Ensure all supporting documents, especially veterans' preference forms like the DD-214, are clear and legible.
- Formatting: Stick strictly to the two-page limit; software will not accept longer files.
Serving as an Intelligence Operations Specialist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety of our country. If you possess the analytical mindset and the dedication required for this high-stakes environment, we encourage you to submit your application by July 27, 2026.
Why This Intelligence Operations Specialist Job Matters
Protect our nation's maritime interests: Join the U.S. Coast Guard as an Intelligence Operations Specialist and play a critical role in global security.
Intelligence Operations Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Intelligence Operations Specialist (GS-12) to serve within the Sector Virginia Intelligence Staff. This role is pivotal in safeguarding maritime interests by collecting, evaluating, and interpreting sensitive intelligence regarding potential threats to ports and coastal waterways. You will work closely with operational commanders to provide actionable, high-level analysis that informs tactical and strategic decision-making.
Requirements for Intelligence Operations Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance
- Registration with or exemption from the Selective Service
- Successful completion of a pre-employment drug test
- Possession of a valid state driver's license
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent
- Two-page maximum limit for resume submissions
Preferred Qualifications for Intelligence Operations Specialist
- Strong proficiency in intelligence report generation and dissemination
- Experience in long-range intelligence planning and trend monitoring
- High level of competence in multi-source intelligence data evaluation
- Demonstrated ability to advise on complex information sources
- Exceptional analytical and communication skills for policy recommendation
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Federal holiday pay and generous personal leave
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development
- ✓Student loan repayment assistance (up to $10,000)
- ✓Fitness center and wellness program access
💡 How to Apply Intelligence Operations Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Intelligence Operations Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, ensuring it covers all relevant experience and includes specific hours per week.
- Submit your application package online before the closing date of July 27, 2026.
- Monitor your email for a link to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if notified.
- Complete the required assessments within the provided 48-hour window.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the two-page limit.
- Ensure your resume reflects at least one full year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level.
- Focus your resume on specific intelligence accomplishments rather than copying duties from the job description.
- Verify your eligibility for veterans' preference and ensure all required supporting documents (like DD-214) are attached.
- Be prepared for the USA Hire Assessment by reviewing practice resources online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a college degree required for this position?
There is no positive education requirement for this GS-12 position; however, you must demonstrate equivalent specialized experience.
What is the security clearance level?
This position requires a Top Secret/SCI clearance due to the sensitive nature of the intelligence work.
Can I receive student loan help?
Yes, newly appointed permanent or term employees may be eligible for student loan repayment up to $10,000 with a three-year service agreement.
What if I have a disability?
The Coast Guard encourages applications from individuals with disabilities and provides reasonable accommodations for the assessment phase.
Will I be promoted?
While there is no guaranteed career ladder for this specific vacancy, high performance is always recognized within the federal sector.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The U.S. Coast Guard, a vital component of the Department of Homeland Security, operates as a unique maritime organization. Its mission extends from protecting national interests in the heartland to patrolling the globe. Joining the Coast Guard as a civilian intelligence professional means becoming part of a diverse, mission-driven team dedicated to the prevention of terrorism, enforcement of maritime laws, and national resilience.