Launch Your Career: IT Specialist (Policy & Planning) at the 121st Air Refueling Wing

The Air National Guard is synonymous with excellence, resilience, and service. For technology professionals, the opportunity to shape the digital and communications infrastructure of the 121st Air Refueling Wing is more than just a job—it is a vital mission. We are currently seeking an experienced IT Specialist (Policy & Planning) to join our team at Rickenbacker Air Force Base in Ohio.

Job Responsibilities

As an IT Specialist (Policy & Planning), your responsibilities will span across strategic visioning and operational execution. You will:

IT Planning: Analyze hardware and software requirements, develop project milestones, and conduct feasibility studies.
Policy Development: Act as a key advisor to leadership, drafting policies that govern how the unit manages IT and communications assets.
Telecommunications: Design networks and manage the budgetary justifications for communication services.
Liaison Functions: Serve as the point of contact between outside contractors and wing officials to ensure systems operate at peak performance.

Core Duty Comparison

Responsibility	Impact	Frequency
Policy Development	Improves long-term efficiency	Recurring
IT Planning	Ensures operational readiness	Daily
Budget Preparation	Maintains resource alignment	Annual
Contractor Liaison	Resolves critical bottlenecks	Ad-hoc

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-11 position, you must demonstrate:

A deep understanding of IT systems and infrastructure.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level.
Strong oral and written communication skills for presenting complex technical plans.
Ability to obtain a Top Secret security clearance.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $77,926 to $101,309 per year, commensurate with your experience and qualifications, and aligned with federal pay scales.

Benefits

Employees of the National Guard receive access to a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Retirement plans through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Generous paid time off and federal holidays.
Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.

Application Tips

Be Precise: Use Month/Year for all your work experience to make assessment easier.
Highlight Competencies: Clearly document your experience in the four core competencies: Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Oral Communication, and Problem Solving.
Use the Questionnaire: The Occupational Questionnaire is a primary tool for qualification; answer it with accuracy and honesty.

If you are ready to apply your technical expertise toward the mission of the Air National Guard, this is the position for you. Prepare your documentation and submit your application via USAJOBS to start your journey with the 121st Air Refueling Wing.

Why This It Specialist (Plcypln) Job Matters

Shape the future of Air National Guard communications—your expertise in IT policy and planning is the catalyst for mission success at the 121st Air Refueling Wing.

It Specialist (Plcypln) Job Overview

The 121st Air Refueling Wing is seeking a dedicated IT Specialist (Policy & Planning) to serve as a technical advisor for information technology and telecommunications systems. Based at Rickenbacker AFB, this role involves shaping the technological landscape of the unit by developing comprehensive plans, establishing operational policies, and ensuring that our IT architecture aligns with national security objectives and mission requirements.

Requirements for It Specialist (Plcypln)

U.S. Citizenship.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Completion of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level (GS-09 equivalent).
Ability to demonstrate core IT competencies: Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Oral Communication, and Problem Solving.
Compliance with Selective Service registration requirements for males born after December 31, 1959.

Preferred Qualifications for It Specialist (Plcypln)

Advanced education (Ph.D. or equivalent) in an IT-related field.
Direct experience in telecommunications systems planning and budgetary justification.
Proven track record in performing feasibility studies and economic analysis for IT projects.
Experience coordinating with stakeholders and contractors to resolve complex infrastructure challenges.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal benefits package.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Work-life balance with telework eligibility.
✓Contributing to the critical mission of the Air National Guard.
✓Supportive work environment at Rickenbacker AFB.

💡 How to Apply It Specialist (Plcypln) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for It Specialist (Plcypln) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Review the full position description on FASCLASS (PD# T59057P1).
Prepare your resume, ensuring it includes hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
Gather supporting documentation, such as your most recent SF-50 and official transcripts.
Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire via the link provided in the announcement.
Submit your complete application package before 11:59 PM EST on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Quantify your accomplishments in your resume to showcase how your IT planning influenced outcomes.
Ensure your resume dates are in a clear format (Month/Year) to avoid processing delays.
Double-check your responses on the occupational questionnaire against your actual work history.
Submit your documents well before the deadline to allow time for the automated virus scan process.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will act as the technical advisor for IT and communications systems for the 121st Air Refueling Wing, focusing on long-range planning, policy development, and infrastructure enhancements.

Is this a remote position?

No, this position is located at Rickenbacker AFB in Ohio. While telework may be eligible based on agency policy, it is not a fully remote role.

How is 'specialized experience' defined?

It is experience gained in the IT field that demonstrates the specific competencies required to perform the duties of the position, typically equivalent to the GS-09 level.

What is the highest clearance I might need?

This position requires a Top Secret security clearance.

Can I substitute my education for experience?

Yes, relevant advanced degrees may be used to meet requirements, provided you submit official transcripts.

Job from Air National Guard Units

The 121st Air Refueling Wing is a premier unit of the National Guard, upholding a proud tradition of supporting both national defense and community needs. As a Title 5 excepted service position, this role offers the stability of the federal government coupled with the unique, mission-driven environment of the Air National Guard.