Mobilization Plans Specialist (GS-11) - A Rewarding Career with the Army National Guard

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for planning and ensuring operational readiness? The Army National Guard is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to fill the critical role of Mobilization Plans Specialist (GS-11) in Springfield, Illinois. This unique Title 32 Excepted Service position offers a competitive salary, the chance to serve your nation and state, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on national security. If you possess strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills, and have a background in program management, this could be the career advancement you've been looking for.

About the Agency: The Army National Guard

The National Guard, with its roots stretching back to the earliest American colonial days, stands as the oldest component of the U.S. Armed Forces. Its dual mission serves both the federal government and individual states, making it a vital force in national defense and community support. The Army National Guard (ARNG) is comprised of citizen-soldiers who balance military service with civilian life, responding to both domestic emergencies and overseas deployments. Joining the ARNG means becoming part of a proud tradition of defending the nation, assisting in times of crisis, and building a strong sense of community and purpose. The agency is committed to providing its members with valuable training, career development opportunities, and a supportive environment.

Job Responsibilities: Mobilization Plans Specialist

As a Mobilization Plans Specialist, you will be instrumental in ensuring the Army National Guard's units are prepared for deployment and mobilization. Your responsibilities will be diverse and challenging, requiring keen attention to detail and strategic foresight. Key duties include:

• Analyzing Mission Requirements: Evaluating war plan missions assigned to the state's units to assess their capability to meet requirements, considering factors like mobilization readiness and overall capacity.
• Developing and Refining Plans: Creating, analyzing, and updating comprehensive mobilization plans and projects from their inception through completion.
• Coordinating Training and Support: Reviewing and approving Post Mobilization Training and Support Requirements to align with mission objectives.
• Ensuring Program Effectiveness: Overseeing the Mobilization Exercise Program to guarantee it is effective, aligns with state-specific missions and needs, and is structured for successful implementation.
• Identifying and Addressing Deficiencies: Analyzing after-action reports to identify systemic deficiencies and recommending corrective measures or mission adjustments when necessary.
• Providing Advisory Services: Conducting research on mobilization planning challenges and offering expert advice to commanders and staff.
• Analyzing Force Structure Changes: Assessing the impact of force structure changes on state and unit mobilization plans.
• Ensuring Compliance: Reviewing directives from the United States Forces Command Mobilization and Deployment Planning System to ensure state and unit adherence to established mobilization requirements.
• Data Management and Reporting: Assembling and analyzing mobilization data, and preparing comprehensive reports, including 'lessons learned' from mobilization activities.
• Representing the State: Attending national-level conferences on behalf of the state to represent ARNG interests and gather crucial information.
• Facilitating Workshops: Preparing agendas, coordinating staff, and conducting workshops focused on mobilization planning.
• Coordinating Conferences: Assisting in the development, coordination, and execution of state and unit mobilization station coordination conferences.

Requirements for Success

To excel in this role, candidates must meet specific qualifications, encompassing both military and civilian experience. The position is open to individuals who are willing to become T32 Dual Status Technicians and join the Illinois National Guard.

Military Qualifications:

• Rank: Must hold a rank of SSG-1SG, WO, or 2LT-CPT.
• Membership: Required to be a member of the Illinois National Guard and hold the specified military grade. Eligibility for enlistment or commissioning into the ILNG is essential.
• Selective Service: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.
• Uniform: Acceptance of the position requires wearing the military uniform.

General and Specialized Experience:

• General Experience: Demonstrated ability to understand organizational principles, management, and administration; experience in compiling various forms of written communication (reports, letters, memoranda); and experience in roles requiring interpersonal skills to effectively convey information. Experience using computer systems is also necessary.
• Specialized Experience (GS-11): A minimum of one year of experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent is required. This experience must be in program or managerial duties directly related to the duties of this position, or in comparable functions. This includes:
  • Developing and recommending policy.
  • Organizing and executing specific programs.
  • Evaluating and recommending improvements to operational methods.
  • Engaging in supervisory, staff, or technical work that involved analysis and evaluation to enhance administrative practices.
  • Proficiency in preparing written communications and delivering oral presentations.

Education:

• While not strictly required for all, specific educational courses (e.g., Officer Advanced Course, Command and Staff College) can be credited towards specialized experience. Official transcripts or documentation are necessary to verify any educational claims.

Other Requirements:

• Security Clearance: Must possess a minimum of a Secret clearance. A Top Secret clearance may be required based on the state's mission.
• Background Investigation: Must successfully complete a background investigation and meet federal employment suitability standards.
• Drug Testing: Must pass a drug test.
• Conditional Employment: Acceptance of this position is contingent upon meeting all membership and clearance requirements. Irregular, overtime, or hours outside the normal duty day may be required.

Salary Overview

This Mobilization Plans Specialist position is graded at the GS-11 level. The annual salary range is competitive, falling between $74,678 and $97,087 per year. This salary reflects the level of responsibility and expertise required for this vital role within the Army National Guard.

Benefits and Perks

While specific benefits are often detailed through federal employment channels, National Guard technicians typically enjoy a comprehensive benefits package. This can include:

• Federal Health Benefits: Eligibility for federal health insurance programs.
• Retirement Plan: Participation in a federal retirement system (e.g., FERS).
• Paid Time Off: Accrual of annual and sick leave.
• Life Insurance: Federal employee life insurance options.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued training and career growth within the National Guard structure.
• Meaningful Service: The intrinsic benefit of serving your country, state, and community.

Please note that specific benefit details should be confirmed through official channels or upon receiving a job offer.

Application Process

Applying for this position is a straightforward process managed through USAJOBS. Ensure you follow these steps carefully:

1. Create/Log In: Access your USAJOBS account. If you don't have one, create it.
2. Apply Online: Click the 'Apply' button on the job announcement to begin.
3. Complete Questionnaire: Fill out the online Occupational Questionnaire accurately.
4. Submit Documents: Upload all required documents, including:
   • Your resume (detailed and tailored).
   • Most recent SF-50 (if currently an ILNG technician).
   • NGIL Form 73 (Illinois National Guard Technician Program Supplement).
   • Official Transcripts (if using education).
   • Other supporting documents (certifications, etc.).
5. Review and Submit: Thoroughly review your entire application package for completeness and accuracy before submitting. Ensure it is submitted by the closing date.

Application Deadline: October 1, 2027, 11:59 PM EST.

Application Tips for Success

To maximize your chances of selection, keep these tips in mind:

• Tailor Your Resume: Your resume is your primary tool. Ensure it explicitly addresses the 'General Experience' and 'Specialized Experience' listed in the announcement. Use keywords from the announcement and provide specific examples of your accomplishments.
• Use Your Own Words: Avoid copying descriptions directly from the position description. Articulate your experience in your own language to demonstrate genuine understanding and application.
• Detail Your Experience: For each position listed on your resume, include the dates (month and year), your job title, the hours worked per week, and a clear description of your duties and responsibilities.
• Complete All Forms: Fill out the NGIL Form 73 completely. If you do not have military qualifications, clearly state 'not applicable' and sign the form.
• Check Document Requirements: Ensure all uploaded documents are clear, legible, and meet the specified requirements. Documents like photos or performance ratings are typically not accepted.
• Verify Your Application: Before final submission, review every section of your application for any errors or omissions. Once submitted, check your USAJOBS account for the application status.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is Title 32 status?	Title 32 status refers to National Guard members performing duty under Title 32 of the U.S. Code. This typically applies to technicians who are members of the National Guard and employed in dual-status positions, meaning they are both military technicians and members of the National Guard.
Is prior military experience required?	While specific military ranks are listed, the core requirements focus on general and specialized experience. However, military membership in the Illinois National Guard is mandatory for this Title 32 position.
What is the salary range?	The annual salary for this GS-11 position ranges from $74,678 to $97,087.
Do I need a security clearance to apply?	A minimum of a Secret clearance is required. The possibility of needing a Top Secret clearance exists, depending on the specific mission requirements of the state. You must be eligible to obtain and maintain the required clearance.
Can I apply if I am not currently in the Illinois National Guard?	Yes, the announcement states that applicants willing to become T32 Dual Status Technicians and gain ILNG membership are considered. However, eligibility for military service and subsequent membership in the ILNG is a prerequisite for hiring.
What is the application deadline?	The application must be submitted by October 1, 2027, at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time.

This Mobilization Plans Specialist position offers a unique opportunity to leverage your planning and analytical expertise within the esteemed Army National Guard. By ensuring the readiness of our units, you will play a vital role in national defense and state emergency response. If you are ready to accept this challenge and contribute to a mission-driven organization, we encourage you to apply. Join the Army National Guard and serve with pride, purpose, and distinction.