Launch Your Administrative Career with the United States Space Force at Vandenberg AFB

In a world where satellite communications, orbital logistics, and planetary security have transitioned to the front lines of defense, the United States Space Force (USSF) stands as our nation's most cutting-edge military branch. To keep these orbital operations moving seamlessly, the USSF relies on top-tier administrative support. If you are a seasoned administrative professional looking to make a true impact on national security, the Secretary (Office Automation) position for Space Delta 5 (DEL 5) at Vandenberg Air Force Base in California represents a career opportunity unlike any other.

This role offers a unique professional path within the NK-03 broadband system, carrying an attractive salary range of $65,148 to $103,006 annually. If you possess an analytical mind, an eye for detail, and a commitment to keeping executive leaders organized, read on to discover how you can contribute to the future of space defense.

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About the Agency: The Department of the Air Force & United States Space Force

The United States Space Force is the newest branch of the Armed Services, operating under the Department of the Air Force. The USSF was established to secure our nation's freedom of action in, from, and to space, while simultaneously protecting our critical orbital assets.

This specific vacancy sits within Space Delta 5 (DEL 5) and the Coalition Space Operations Center (CSpOC). DEL 5 is responsible for preparing, training, and presenting command and control forces to execute global space operations. Situated at Vandenberg Air Force Base along California's scenic Central Coast, DEL 5 serves as the core hub for international space cooperation, monitoring tracking systems, tactical operations, and strategic communications. Working in this environment means you are directly supporting the elite guardians of global defense.

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Job Responsibilities: Behind the Scenes of Space Command

Serving as an Executive Administrator for Space Delta 5 means you are the operational engine of the front office. You will act as the critical liaison between senior military leaders, administrative staff, and external strategic stakeholders.

Key responsibilities include:

• Executive Schedule Management: Coordinating complex meetings, high-priority conferences, and administrative logistics for Delta leadership.
• Administrative Controls: Developing, implementing, and monitoring administrative processes to ensure the unit stays organized and meets strict deadlines.
• Budget Operations Support: Working closely with financial personnel to analyze budget activities, establish administrative accounting controls, and track office accounts.
• Office Automation Execution: Utilizing advanced databases, graphics programs, and software suites to generate detailed, presentation-ready reports and official correspondence.
• External Communication Liaison: Managing telephone calls, screening incoming VIP visitors, and coordinating logistics with allied nations and external defense partners.

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Position Requirements & Specialized Qualifications

Because this role operates within a high-stakes national security facility, applicants must meet rigorous criteria. Eligibility is open to several paths, including competitive service employees, military spouses, veterans, and individuals with disabilities.

Minimum Requirements:

1. U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal civil service positions within the Department of Defense.
2. Security Clearance: Must have or be capable of obtaining a Top Secret clearance (High-Risk/Special-Sensitive classification).
3. Drug Testing: Pre-employment screening and continuous random drug testing are mandatory.
4. Specialized Experience: You must demonstrate at least one (1) full year of administrative work equivalent to the NK-02 broadband or GS-07 general schedule level. This experience must include drafting professional correspondence, managing multi-tier calendars, tracking office commitments, and organizing files.

Crucial Resume Guidelines:

To ensure your application is reviewed, you must strictly follow these structural guidelines:

• Two-Page Limit: Your federal resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this length will be automatically disqualified.
• Font Size: Must be 10-point font or larger.
• Work Hours Displayed: Every job listing on your resume must include exact dates of employment (MM/YYYY to MM/YYYY) and the exact hours worked per week (e.g., 40 hours/week). Failure to list this will result in your experience being marked as invalid.
• No Sensitive Information: Ensure your resume is devoid of personal details like photos, social security numbers, age, gender, or religious affiliations.

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Salary & Pay Grade Overview

Unlike traditional federal jobs classified under the standard General Schedule (GS) system, this role is graded under the Department of the Air Force's contribution-based NK Broadband System. Specifically designated as an NK-03 position, it combines the GS-07 to GS-09 grade bands into a single flexible bracket. This allows for excellent performance-based growth and highly competitive salary points.

Pay Feature	NK-03 Broadband System	Standard General Schedule (GS-07 to GS-09)
Salary Range	$65,148 to $103,006 per year	$49,000 to $78,000 per year (varies by step)
Pay Structure	Performance-based salary bands	Set step increases based on longevity
Promotion Potential	High potential for in-band adjustments	Requires grade promotion to increase cap
Locality Included	Yes, CA locality adjusted	Varies widely based on geographic area

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Outstanding Benefits Package

As a civilian employee of the United States Space Force, you will enjoy a comprehensive array of premium benefits designed to support your physical, financial, and professional well-being:

• Health and Wellness: Choose from multiple robust Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) plans, as well as comprehensive dental and vision options.
• Thrift Savings Plan (TSP): A retirement savings account comparable to a private 401(k), featuring immediate government contributions and up to 5% agency matching.
• Paid Time Off: Earn paid annual leave (vacation), separate sick leave, and observe all 11 federal holidays.
• Telework Arrangements: Eligible for partial telework, giving you the flexibility to maintain work-life balance while meeting mission objectives.
• Retirement Pension: Coverage under the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) defined benefit pension plan.

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Application Tips and Best Practices

Navigating the federal hiring process requires precision. To ensure your package stands out to Space Force hiring managers, utilize these targeted strategies:

1. Align with the Core Competencies: Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with automated software, budget tracking, database management, and official editing. Use active, descriptive verbs.
2. Perfect Your Writing Samples: Since editing correspondence is a core responsibility, your application questionnaire and resume should be meticulously formatted, demonstrating flawless grammar and punctuation.
3. Cross-Reference Your Resume: Your answers to the online assessment questionnaire must be backed up by clear evidence in your resume. If you rate yourself as an 'expert' in calendar management, your resume must demonstrate years of doing exactly that.
4. Utilize Supporting Checklists: If you are claiming a hiring preference—such as Military Spouse Preference (MSP) or Veterans' Recruitment Authority (VRA)—ensure you attach the appropriate completed self-certification forms, DD-214s, or VA letters.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where is Vandenberg Air Force Base located?

Vandenberg AFB is located in sunny Santa Barbara County, California. It is a stunning, coastal military base known for space launches, quiet beaches, and close proximity to the cities of Lompoc, Santa Maria, and Santa Barbara.

Q2: What is the primary closing date for this vacancy?

Applications must be fully submitted with all supporting documents by September 8, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Q3: What happens if my resume is 2.5 pages long?

It will be disqualified. To ensure fairness across the public and private sectors, the Department of the Air Force strictly enforces the two-page limit for this specific hiring announcement.

Q4: Does this job require a background check?

Yes. Due to the sensitive information processed by Space Delta 5, a background check, suitability assessment, and a Top Secret security clearance investigation are mandatory.

Q5: Is travel required for this role?

Travel is minimal and typically classified as occasional or rare (under travel code 1).

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Supporting the United States Space Force at Vandenberg Air Force Base is more than just an administrative job—it is a front-row seat to history. As a Secretary (Office Automation) for Space Delta 5, you will provide the critical foundation that allows our nation's orbital guardians to perform their duties seamlessly. With an excellent pay scale, top-tier federal benefits, and the pride of contributing to national security, this role is the perfect launchpad for your administrative career. Prepare your federal resume, adhere to the layout guidelines, and submit your application today!