Become a Key Architect of Homeland Defense at USNORTHCOM

Are you looking to pivot your military or federal experience into a role that directly shapes national security? The U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) is seeking a dynamic Training and Exercise Program Specialist (GS-13) based in Peterson AFB, Colorado. This role is perfect for leaders and planners who thrive on executing complex, large-scale training exercises that keep our nation’s defense forces ready to respond to any threat.

Job Responsibilities

In this role, you will do much more than just logistics. Your primary responsibilities include:

Developing policy for high-profile exercises such as Vigilant Shield and Ardent Sentry.
Directing and managing up to 200 personnel during mission-critical exercises.
Orchestrating secure video teleconferences and planning sessions to ensure all commands are synchronized.
Providing subject matter expertise on multi-domain operations, including cyber, space, and maritime domains.

Comparison: Role Requirements

Requirement	Description
Grade Level	GS-13
Experience Needed	1 Year of specialized experience at GS-12 level
Security Level	Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)
Location	Peterson AFB, Colorado

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must be able to demonstrate a deep proficiency in joint doctrine and exercise planning. You must have at least one year of experience at the GS-12 level or equivalent. Furthermore, you must ensure your resume is no longer than two pages. This is a strict requirement designed to ensure that the hiring team can quickly evaluate your most relevant accomplishments.

Salary Overview

This position is structured within the General Schedule (GS) pay system. Candidates can expect a competitive annual salary ranging from $109,246 to $142,022. Final compensation is subject to federal pay scales and specific hiring regulations.

Benefits

Federal employment with USNORTHCOM comes with a robust benefits package, including:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
A secure pension plan via FERS.
The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which is the government's version of a 401(k).
Paid vacation, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays per year.

Application Tips

Be Concise: Use your two-page limit effectively. Avoid fluff and focus on quantified results.
Check Your TIG: Ensure you have the necessary time-in-grade before applying to avoid immediate disqualification.
Use Official Titles: When listing your work experience, ensure your pay plan, series, and grade (e.g., GS-0301-12) are clearly visible.
Monitor Your Email: Notifications regarding the USA Hire assessments will come through email—don't miss your access window.

Serving as an Exercise Planner at USNORTHCOM is a challenging yet rewarding path. If you possess the leadership skills and strategic vision required to manage Tier 1 and Tier 2 exercises, we encourage you to apply. Start your journey toward contributing to the defense of our nation today.

Why This Training And Exercise Program Specialist Job Matters

Shape the future of national security as an Exercise Planner with the U.S. Northern Command, where your strategic expertise directly supports the defense of the homeland.

Training And Exercise Program Specialist Job Overview

The U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) is seeking a highly skilled Training and Exercise Program Specialist to join their team at Peterson AFB, Colorado. In this pivotal role, you will function as a lead planner and exercise controller for Homeland Defense and Defense Support of Civil Authorities. You will be instrumental in designing, coordinating, and executing Tier 1 and Tier 2 Joint and Combined exercises, ensuring the readiness of NORAD and USNORTHCOM staff to navigate complex, multi-domain threats.

Requirements for Training And Exercise Program Specialist

Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
Must meet Federal Time-in-Grade (TIG) requirements for General Schedule positions.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages, including hours worked per week and dates of employment.
Completion of required online assessments as instructed in the application process.

Preferred Qualifications for Training And Exercise Program Specialist

Expertise in applying analytical and evaluative methods to Joint Training Programs.
Comprehensive understanding of military all-domain operations including cyber, space, land, and maritime domains.
Direct experience in managing multi-functional exercise planning for Combatant Commands.
Strong proficiency in navigating military law, national strategy, and joint doctrine.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance options
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation
✓Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Telework eligibility as determined by agency policy

💡 How to Apply Training And Exercise Program Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Training And Exercise Program Specialist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement on the USAJobs portal.
Prepare a concise, two-page resume highlighting your specialized experience.
Complete the online application questionnaire through the USA Staffing platform.
Submit your resume and all required supporting documents (e.g., SF-50, transcripts, veteran documentation) before the deadline.
Complete any required online assessments promptly when notified.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must clearly state the hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for each position.
Ensure your resume does not exceed the two-page limit; excess pages will result in immediate disqualification.
Focus your resume narrative on the specific competencies identified in the job description.
Save your login credentials and check your application status regularly via the USAJobs dashboard.
Upload all supporting documents early to avoid issues with system load or file processing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

The role involves planning and executing Tier 1 and Tier 2 Joint/Combined exercises to train staff in homeland defense and civil support missions for NORAD and USNORTHCOM.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a high-level security clearance involving Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) and is classified as high-risk.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No. The system will reject or ignore applications with resumes exceeding the two-page limit, so brevity and relevance are essential.

Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?

*A: Yes, the position is open to various hiring paths including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Check the full announcement for your specific eligibility.*

What is the most critical part of my application?

*A: Your resume must explicitly link your experience to the KSA (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) section of the announcement.*

Job from U.S. Northern Command

USNORTHCOM is responsible for defending the United States, its territories, and interests. They work tirelessly to deter aggression and provide critical defense support to civil authorities. Working with the Department of the Air Force, this agency offers a high-impact environment where your strategic inputs directly influence the readiness of joint and binational forces.