Become a Joint Operations Planning Specialist with the U.S. Space Command
Are you looking to advance your career at the intersection of national security and space technology? The United States Space Command (USSPACECOM) is currently recruiting for a Joint Operations Planning Specialist in Colorado Springs, Colorado. This position is vital to our nation's ability to deter aggression and maintain a strategic advantage in, from, and through space.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will act as a Functional Manager for the Command’s JOPES activities. Key responsibilities include:
- Planning, organizing, and overseeing operational activities.
- Managing the Time-Phased Force Deployment Data (TPFDD) program.
- Implementing operating policies for supporting operational plans.
- Facilitating guidance and oversight for subordinate JOPES operators.
Requirements
To be considered for this high-impact position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11/NH-02 level.
- Clearance: Ability to obtain and maintain an SCI-level security clearance.
- Residency: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Documentation: Your resume must be two pages or less and explicitly detail employment dates and hours worked.
Salary Overview
This position falls under the NH-03 pay band. The initial salary range is $91,870 to $142,022, depending on experience and locality pay factors.
| Position Level | Pay Band | Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Mid-Senior Level | NH-03 | $91,870 - $142,022 |
Benefits
Working for the Department of the Air Force provides stability and a robust compensation package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance.
- Generous retirement contributions (FERS).
- Vacation and sick leave accrual.
- Opportunities for telework.
Application Tips
- Stay Concise: Respect the two-page resume limit to ensure your application is processed.
- Be Detailed: Clearly list your hours per week for all positions, as this is used to calculate specialized experience.
- Verify: Check your USAJOBS account to confirm all documents have cleared the virus scan after uploading.
This is a premier opportunity for professionals with deep experience in military planning and operations. If you are ready to support USSPACECOM’s mission, submit your application package before September 10, 2026.
Why This Joint Operations Planning Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of national defense with the U.S. Space Command in Colorado Springs. We are seeking a strategic expert to coordinate joint operations in the high-stakes domain of space.
Joint Operations Planning Specialist Job Overview
Join the Department of the Air Force at USSPACECOM, the 11th combatant command responsible for deterring aggression and securing U.S. interests in space. As a Joint Operations Planning Specialist, you will serve as a key operational architect, managing complex planning systems and ensuring our forces are prepared for a diverse range of missions. This role offers a unique opportunity to influence national defense strategy within a dynamic, mission-critical environment.
Requirements for Joint Operations Planning Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) security clearance
- Pre-employment drug testing is required
- Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the NH-02 broadband level (or equivalent to GS-11)
- Comprehensive knowledge of DoD military command structures and mission factors
- Proficiency in Joint Operation Planning and Execution System (JOPES) and Joint Planning and Execution Services (JPES)
- Strict adherence to a two-page maximum resume limit
Preferred Qualifications for Joint Operations Planning Specialist
- Expertise in U.S. National Policy documents including the National Defense Strategy and Unified Command Plan
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate complex issues with executive-level command leadership
- Experience in crisis action planning and consequence management
- Strong background in Global Force Management (GFM) software and hardware environments
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Competitive Federal Salary
- âś“Comprehensive health insurance options
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- âś“Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with employer matching
- âś“Paid time off including federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- âś“Telework eligibility as permitted by mission requirements
- âś“Potential for professional development and acquisition demonstration growth
đź’ˇ How to Apply Joint Operations Planning Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Joint Operations Planning Specialist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, including specific hours worked per week and dates of employment.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s for current federal employees or DD Form 214 for veterans.
- Submit your application package before the deadline of September 10, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the two-page limit; submissions exceeding this will not be considered.
- Clearly articulate your role, grade, and series if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Use the self-certification checklists for Military Spouse or PPP eligibilities to ensure priority consideration.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
- Double-check your documents for your full name before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the NH-03 pay band?
The NH-03 pay band is an acquisition demonstration project equivalent to GS-12 and GS-13 levels, offering flexible salary growth based on contribution.
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. The system will remove resumes exceeding two pages from consideration, so please ensure your most relevant experience is condensed appropriately.
Is a degree required?
*A: The position emphasizes specialized experience, though transcripts should be submitted if education is used to qualify.*
Can I apply if I am an active duty military member?
*A: Yes, provided you include the required certification memo or DD-214 documentation.*
Job from Afelm Us Space Command
The U.S. Air Force, in partnership with USSPACECOM, is dedicated to global vigilance and reach. As the 11th combatant command, USSPACECOM works to deliver space combat power for the Joint force. Working here means joining a team committed to excellence, integrity, and the defense of vital national interests.