Become a Strategic Plans and Training Officer with the New Jersey Air National Guard

Are you a dedicated military leader looking to make a lasting impact on force readiness and strategic planning? The New Jersey Air National Guard is currently recruiting for a Strategic Plans and Training Officer (GS-12) based in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. This unique, indefinite position offers a rare chance to influence the future of the Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ-State) while working in a collaborative, professional environment.

Job Responsibilities

As a Strategic Plans and Training Officer, your role is multifaceted. You will serve as the primary staff director for:

Joint Integration: Coordinating training exercises and interagency processes.
Strategic Analysis: Re-engineering administrative operations to align with future requirements.
Executive Support: Providing briefings and information papers to the Adjutant General and Chief of the Joint Staff.
Resource Management: Overseeing program analysis to ensure resources are utilized efficiently without duplication.

Core Competencies Comparison

Competency	Focus Area	Impact Level
Strategic Planning	Long-term force readiness	High
Personnel Management	Leading and directing staff	High
Policy Development	Administrative practices	Medium

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:

Membership: Must be an active member of the New Jersey Army National Guard.
Rank: Must hold a military grade between O-3 and O-5.
Clearance: Must possess or be eligible for a Secret security clearance.
Compliance: Must register for Selective Service if born after 1959 and pass federal background checks.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $105,481 to $137,128 per year, commensurate with your grade and experience level. As a federal position, it provides a stable income structure and a clear progression path within the GS-12 framework.

Benefits

Beyond your salary, you will enjoy the comprehensive benefits package typical of federal employment, including:

Access to the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
Generous paid annual and sick leave accrual.
Ongoing opportunities for specialized military training and professional certifications.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Clearly list your hours per week and salary for each role.
Avoid Plagiarism: Do not copy the job duties from this announcement; describe your actual accomplishments in your own words.
Stay Organized: Ensure all your documents (SF-50, DD-214) are updated and easy to find before the deadline.

This position is ideal for a motivated professional looking to transition their military experience into a civilian-facing technician role that supports the broader mission of the National Guard. Apply today through the USAJOBS portal to take the next step in your career.

Why This Strategic Plans And Training Officer Job Matters

Take your career in military administration and strategic planning to the next level with a pivotal role in the New Jersey Air National Guard.

Strategic Plans And Training Officer Job Overview

The New Jersey Air National Guard is seeking a dedicated Strategic Plans and Training Officer (GS-12) to serve at the Joint Force Headquarters in Lawrenceville. This position is a critical leadership role responsible for directing joint integration plans, training exercises, and strategic policy development. As a dual-status technician position, you will serve as a key advisor to the Adjutant General and the Chief of the Joint Staff, ensuring that strategic force development and readiness goals are met across the organization.

Requirements for Strategic Plans And Training Officer

Must be a current member of the New Jersey Army National Guard.
Must hold a military grade between O-3 (CPT) and O-5 (LTC).
Must possess or be able to obtain a Secret security clearance.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must pass a federal employment suitability background investigation.
Must be willing to accept a grade reduction if currently over the required military grade.
Must maintain compatibility with the assigned military unit as a dual-status technician.

Preferred Qualifications for Strategic Plans And Training Officer

Proven experience in developing and recommending organizational policy.
Demonstrated ability to lead, direct, and assign work to diverse personnel.
Expertise in analyzing complex datasets to improve managerial and administrative practices.
Strong proficiency in oral and written communications for executive-level briefings.
Experience in managing professional development and joint training programs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal retirement benefits
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
✓Accrued annual and sick leave
✓Opportunities for professional military education and training
✓Potential for career advancement within the National Guard structure

💡 How to Apply Strategic Plans And Training Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Strategic Plans And Training Officer Job

Log into your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
Prepare a comprehensive resume detailing your work history, duties, and accomplishments without copying the job announcement text.
Gather required documents, including your most recent non-award SF-50 and proof of military certifications.
Complete the online application questionnaire within the USAJOBS portal.
Submit your application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and exact dates of employment (Month/Year).
Avoid the common pitfall of copying and pasting the position description directly into your resume to prevent disqualification for plagiarism.
Verify that your resume clearly demonstrates how your experience aligns with the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the announcement.
Double-check that all supporting documents like DD-214s or SF-50s are uploaded and clear before the deadline.
Monitor your email for notifications regarding your eligibility status after the announcement closes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that this is an indefinite position?

An indefinite position is one that has no specified end date; while not permanent, the role may transition to permanent status based on organizational needs.

Is telework available for this role?

Telework is possible but is strictly subject to the approval of your supervisor, branch chief, and director.

Do I need a security clearance to apply?

Yes, you must possess or be capable of obtaining a Secret clearance to serve in this position.

What is the closing date for this application?

The announcement closes on November 9, 2026.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation benefits are not offered for this position.

Job from Army National Guard Units

The New Jersey Air National Guard, under the Department of the Army, operates as a vital component of the nation's defense structure. The Strategic Plans and Training Directorate (J-5/7) is at the heart of our mission, focused on long-term force development, professional military education, and regional integration. Serving here means you are part of a team committed to excellence, integrity, and operational readiness.