Combatant Command Representative (CCR) at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

In the complex landscape of national security, strategic representation and effective coordination are paramount. The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) plays a critical role in countering weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and emerging threats. To bolster its mission, DTRA is seeking a highly qualified Combatant Command Representative (CCR) to serve as a vital link between the agency and key combatant commands. This leadership position, based in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, offers a significant opportunity to influence national security operations at the highest echelons.

About the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA)

The Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) is a U.S. Department of Defense agency responsible for safeguarding the nation and its allies from WMD threats. DTRA provides integrated solutions to deter strategic attacks, prevent, reduce, and counter WMDs, and prevail against WMD-armed adversaries. The agency works across a broad spectrum of activities, from research and development to operational support, ensuring the U.S. military and its partners are prepared to face the evolving challenges posed by chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive (CBRNE) threats.

DTRA's mission is crucial in maintaining global stability and protecting American interests. They foster collaboration among government agencies, international partners, and the private sector to develop and implement effective strategies for threat reduction and consequence management.

Job Responsibilities: The Role of a Combatant Command Representative (CCR)

As a Combatant Command Representative (CCR) at the GS-0301-14 level, you will serve as the primary representative of the DTRA Director within a supported combatant command. Your responsibilities will encompass leading and overseeing DTRA personnel stationed at the command, ensuring seamless integration of DTRA's capabilities into the command's operations.

Key duties include:

• Agency Representation: Acting as the DTRA Director's direct representative to the supported command, fostering strong working relationships with key leaders and staff.
• Team Leadership: Providing guidance, leadership, and on-site direction to the DTRA team embedded within the supported command.
• Coordination and Communication: Liaising effectively with DTRA Headquarters, other agencies, commanders, and senior leaders to ensure the proper flow of information and maintain situational awareness.
• Capability Integration: Advising DTRA leadership and staff on command-specific issues and facilitating the integration of DTRA's unique capabilities to address identified threats and challenges.
• Operational Support: Maintaining a comprehensive understanding of the supported command's operations, activities, and initiatives to provide relevant support.
• Planning and Execution: Assisting planners in the design, planning, and execution of DTRA's involvement in joint training events and exercises.
• Requirements Determination: Making informed recommendations regarding necessary DTRA capabilities to respond to crises and conflicts.
• Engagement Support: Facilitating key leader engagements and correspondence between DTRA and the supported command.
• Special Operations Enablement: Supporting operations within joint special operations formations through the integration of DTRA's specialized capabilities.
• Strategic Insight: Possessing a broad understanding of the roles, authorities, and missions of entities like the Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC) Headquarters and its component units.

Requirements for the Combatant Command Representative (CCR) Position

To be considered for this critical role, candidates must meet specific qualifications. At the GS-14 grade level, you must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 grade level in the federal service. This experience must clearly demonstrate the following competencies:

• Leadership: Proven ability to provide vision and direction, leading a small, high-performing team to achieve strategic objectives.
• Communication: Expertise in managing communication across all mediums—written, verbal, and otherwise—with senior officials to ensure critical information dissemination and situational awareness.
• Enterprise Knowledge: A comprehensive understanding of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and high-Explosives (CBRNE) Defense and Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) enterprise, including its functions and how they support special operations.
• Operational Enablement: Experience in enabling joint special operations, planning, and the functions of sub-unified commands and high-level joint staff operations, extending to the national-strategic level.
• Customer Focus and Advisory: A strong customer-centric approach to providing analytical support, developing projects, plans, and policies, and offering expert advice on countering WMDs and mitigating CBRN threats to supported commands.

It is imperative that this specialized experience is clearly articulated and demonstrated within your submitted resume. Please note that for this specific grade level, substitution of education for specialized experience is not permitted.

Competencies Assessed

Your qualifications will be evaluated based on the following key competencies:

• Organizational Awareness
• Oral Communication
• Leadership
• Advise and/or Consult
• Stakeholder Management

Eligibility Considerations

The announcement also outlines various eligibility paths, including:

• Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA): Specific criteria apply for veterans seeking preference.
• Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For displaced federal employees.
• Priority Placement Program (PPP): Including options for DoD Retained Grade Preference (RGP) and DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technician Eligible (PPP DoD MRNG).
• Priority Placement Program, DoD Military Spouse Preference (MSP): For eligible military spouses.

Salary Overview

The Combatant Command Representative (CCR) position is classified at the GS-14 grade level. The annual salary for this role ranges from $131,342 to $170,750, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Benefits of Federal Employment

As a federal employee with the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, you are eligible for a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your well-being and financial security. These benefits include:

Benefit Category	Description
Health Insurance	Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program.
Retirement	Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), a defined benefit pension plan, with agency contributions.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)	A retirement savings and investment plan, similar to a 401(k), with generous agency matching contributions.
Paid Time Off	Generous accrual of annual leave (vacation) and sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays per year.
Life Insurance	Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI) options available.
Long-Term Care Insurance	Federal Long Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) provides coverage for necessary care that individuals cannot perform themselves.
Other Programs	Includes Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for healthcare and dependent care, and an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for support services.
Training & Development	Opportunities for professional growth, training, and career advancement.

Application Process and Tips

Applying for federal positions requires careful attention to detail. To ensure your application is considered, follow these steps:

1. Online Application: Complete the entire online application through USAJOBS. Ensure all information is accurate and complete.
2. Resume Submission: Upload a resume that is no more than two pages. It must adhere to specific formatting guidelines, including a minimum 0.5-inch margin and a 10-point font size. Use a PDF format to preserve formatting. Your resume is critical for demonstrating your specialized experience and must clearly outline your duties, responsibilities, and accomplishments.
3. Required Documents: Submit all necessary supporting documentation as outlined in the announcement. This may include:
   • SF50: For current and former federal employees, your most recent SF50 is required to verify grade, step, and tenure.
   • Veteran's Documents: If claiming veteran's preference, include your DD214 (showing character of service), SF-15 form, and a VA letter.
   • Proof of Eligibility: Any other documents required based on the hiring path you are utilizing.
4. Questionnaire: Complete the occupational questionnaire accurately. Your resume will be used to verify your responses.
5. Submission Deadline: Ensure your complete application package is submitted by the closing date: September 9, 2026, 11:59 PM EST.

Application Tips:

• Read Carefully: Thoroughly read the entire job announcement, paying special attention to the 'Qualifications,' 'Required Documents,' and 'How to Apply' sections.
• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to directly address the skills, knowledge, and experience required for this specific CCR role. Use keywords from the announcement.
• Demonstrate Experience: Don't just list duties; describe your accomplishments and the impact of your work, particularly in leadership, communication, and WMD-related areas.
• Verify Documentation: Double-check that all required documents are uploaded correctly and are legible.
• Check Status: Log in to your USAJOBS account to monitor the status of your application after submission.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the salary range for this Combatant Command Representative position? A: The salary ranges from $131,342 to $170,750 per year.

Q2: What are the primary duties of the CCR? A: The CCR acts as the DTRA Director's representative to a supported command, leading DTRA personnel, coordinating agency capabilities, and advising command leadership on WMD and CBRN threats.

Q3: What is the required security clearance? A: A Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance is required for this position.

Q4: Is relocation assistance available? A: Relocation may be authorized for this position, indicating potential support for moving expenses.

Q5: Can education substitute for the required specialized experience? A: No, for the GS-14 grade level of this position, education cannot be substituted for the required one year of specialized experience.

Q6: What is the work schedule for this position? A: While not explicitly detailed, federal positions at this level are typically full-time (40 hours per week). The 'PositionSchedule' code '1' usually indicates a full-time schedule.

Q7: Does this position require drug testing? A: Yes, this position is subject to an initial drug screening and random testing thereafter. A negative drug test is a condition of employment.

The Combatant Command Representative (CCR) position at the Defense Threat Reduction Agency represents a unique and challenging opportunity for experienced leaders in national security. By serving as a critical liaison between DTRA and combatant commands, you will play an integral role in safeguarding the nation against WMD and emerging threats. If you possess strong leadership, communication, and strategic expertise in the WMD counter-enterprise, we encourage you to apply and contribute to DTRA's vital mission.