Launch Your Federal Career as a Mission Support Specialist with ICE

Are you looking to make a meaningful impact on national security while advancing your career? The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency, a key component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is currently seeking talented Mission Support Specialists. This role is perfect for administrative professionals who thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments.

Job Responsibilities

As a Mission Support Specialist, you will act as a subject matter expert on administrative matters. Your primary tasks will include:

Conducting evaluations of administrative programs to ensure operational efficiency.
Identifying and re-engineering processes to solve complex logistical challenges.
Managing administrative functions such as budget oversight, travel, space, and personnel.
Applying and interpreting complex laws and policies to support agency operations.

Comparison: GS-09 vs. GS-11 Qualifications

Requirement Level	Experience Requirement	Education Requirement
GS-09	1 year at GS-07 equivalent	Master's degree or equivalent
GS-11	1 year at GS-09 equivalent	Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study

Requirements

To be eligible, you must be a U.S. citizen and successfully pass a background investigation for Public Trust. You must also be prepared to undergo drug testing. Your resume must clearly articulate your relevant specialized experience without copying the language provided in the job announcement.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $114,413 per year, depending on the specific grade level and the locality pay of the selected duty station.

Benefits

Beyond the salary, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits including:

Robust health and insurance options.
Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Flexible work-life balance options like telework.
Professional development and training.

Application Tips

Mind the Limit: Your resume must be strictly 2 pages.
Early Submission: The first 100 applicants get priority. Don't wait until the final deadline.
Clarity Matters: Use clear, professional language to describe your achievements.

This role is an excellent opportunity to serve your country in a challenging and rewarding capacity. Prepare your application materials carefully and apply today to join the ICE mission.

Why This Mission Support Specialist Job Matters

Join the front lines of national security with the Department of Homeland Security's U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) as a Mission Support Specialist.

Mission Support Specialist Job Overview

ICE's Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) is seeking highly motivated individuals to serve as Mission Support Specialists. These positions are vital to the agency’s administrative health, requiring professionals to manage complex operational issues, streamline logistics, and support legal teams across multiple national locations. Candidates will be responsible for re-engineering administrative processes and serving as subject matter experts to ensure agency efficiency.

Requirements for Mission Support Specialist

U.S. Citizenship
Must pass a pre-employment drug test
Must undergo a background investigation for Public Trust
Submit a resume not exceeding 2 pages
Complete an online assessment if prompted
Provide official/unofficial transcripts if qualifying via education

Preferred Qualifications for Mission Support Specialist

One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 (for GS-09) or GS-09 (for GS-11) grade level
Expertise in logistics, procurement, and administrative resource management
Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply complex federal regulations
Strong analytical skills for process improvement and re-engineering
Master's degree or higher for GS-09; Ph.D. or equivalent for GS-11

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities
✓Tuition reimbursement programs
✓Employee wellness programs and fitness centers

💡 How to Apply Mission Support Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Mission Support Specialist Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Submit a 2-page resume specifically detailing relevant experience and metrics.
Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
Complete the required online USA Hire Assessments within the provided timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly to 2 pages; any pages beyond that will not be reviewed.
Do not copy and paste the job announcement text into your resume; describe your own accomplishments.
Be specific about your hours worked per week and dates of employment for each role.
Apply early—only the first 100 applicants are guaranteed priority consideration.
Proofread your responses to the essay questions to ensure clarity and professional tone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the promotion potential for this position?

This position offers promotion potential up to the GS-12 level, though future promotions are at the discretion of the agency based on performance and mission needs.

Can I apply to more than one location?

While multiple locations are available, you may only select one location for your application.

Is there a residency requirement?

You must be a U.S. Citizen.

Are these jobs remote?

This specific position is not designated as remote, though it may offer some telework flexibility.

Job from Immigration And Customs Enforcement

The Office of the Principal Legal Advisor (OPLA) provides legal counsel and support to ICE, the principal investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. ICE is responsible for securing our borders and preventing cross-border crime. By joining OPLA, you become part of an essential team that ensures the agency functions efficiently, allowing our legal professionals to focus on protecting the public.