Career Opportunity: Information Technology Specialist (APPSW) at the Defense Information School

Are you a seasoned software developer looking to leverage your skills in a mission-critical federal environment? The Defense Media Activity (DMA) is currently hiring an Information Technology Specialist (APPSW) at the Defense Information School (DINFOS) located in Fort Meade, Maryland. This role offers the unique opportunity to modernize and maintain essential educational systems for our nation's service members.

Job Responsibilities

As the senior technical subject matter expert, you will manage the full lifecycle of academic and administrative applications. Your core responsibilities include:

System Design: Translating functional academic requirements into robust technical specifications.
Software Development: Coding, debugging, and modernizing multi-tier enterprise web applications using C# and .NET.
Database Management: Overseeing SQL Server architecture, including the creation of stored procedures and complex schema maintenance.
DevOps Oversight: Utilizing Azure DevOps for managing Git repositories, CI/CD pipelines, and automated builds.
Compliance and Security: Implementing NIST SP 800-53 security controls and ensuring all software meets Section 508 accessibility standards.

Requirements

To qualify for this GS-12 position, you must demonstrate a deep background in IT. Key requirements include:

Professional Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent) in software development and database administration.
Technical Proficiency: Hands-on experience with C#, ASP.NET, SQL Server, and Agile team management.
Security Clearance: You must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level security clearance.
Drug Testing: As this is a sensitive position, you will be subject to initial and ongoing random drug testing.

Skills Comparison Table

Skill Category	Required Competency
Development	C#/.NET Core, ASP.NET
Database	SQL Server, Stored Procedures
DevOps	Azure DevOps, Git, CI/CD
Frameworks	NIST SP 800-53, Section 508

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is set between $102,415 and $133,142 per year. This salary reflects the senior technical responsibilities associated with the GS-12 pay scale and the expertise required to manage DINFOS academic systems.

Benefits

Federal employees enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that is among the best in the public sector. This includes:

Health & Wellness: Extensive health insurance plans with government contributions.
Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave accrual, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
Flexibility: Opportunities for telework are available, supporting a modern work environment.

Application Tips

Federal applications are highly scrutinized, and compliance is key. Follow these tips to stand out:

Respect the Page Limit: The two-page resume limit is strictly enforced. Focus on high-impact achievements rather than a lengthy history.
Use Clear Formatting: Use standard fonts (Lato, Arial, or Calibri) and ensure your document is saved as a PDF.
Detail Your Work: Every entry must include hours worked per week and accurate dates of employment.
Answer Thoroughly: The online questionnaire is a critical part of your evaluation—ensure your answers match the experience described in your resume.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use education to substitute for experience? A: No, for this specific GS-12 vacancy, specialized experience is required and education cannot be used as a substitute.

Q: What documents are required? A: You must submit your resume (2 pages max), unofficial transcripts, and a copy of your most recent SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.

Q: Is travel required? A: Occasional travel may be necessary as part of the job requirements.

This role is an excellent opportunity for an IT professional looking to combine technical prowess with meaningful public service. If you are ready to modernize the IT infrastructure of the Defense Information School, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.

Why This Information Technology Specialist (Appsw) Job Matters

Shape the digital future of the Defense Information School by leading critical software development and modernizing educational systems at the GS-12 level.

Information Technology Specialist (Appsw) Job Overview

The Defense Media Activity is seeking a skilled Information Technology Specialist (APPSW) to join the Directorate of Plans and Technology at the Defense Information School in Fort Meade, Maryland. This role serves as a senior subject matter expert, guiding the entire software development lifecycle—from initial requirements analysis and architecture design to deployment and long-term maintenance—for systems that support vital military academic missions.

Requirements for Information Technology Specialist (Appsw)

One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent.
Proven experience in Agile/Scrum team leadership, code review, and technical mentoring.
Proficiency in managing System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) workflows via Azure DevOps.
Advanced skills in C#/.NET development and Microsoft SQL Server database management.
Knowledge of federal security frameworks like NIST SP 800-53 and STIGs.
Understanding of Section 508 accessibility compliance requirements.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Willingness to undergo mandatory initial and random drug screenings.

Preferred Qualifications for Information Technology Specialist (Appsw)

Experience with CI/CD pipeline automation and artifact management.
Demonstrated ability to translate complex functional business requirements into technical system architectures.
Proven track record in managing Git repositories within an enterprise environment.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal government health and life insurance options
✓Retirement benefits including pension and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave
✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression
✓Telework eligibility

💡 How to Apply Information Technology Specialist (Appsw) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Information Technology Specialist (Appsw) Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
Gather supporting documents such as transcripts and most recent SF-50.
Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
Upload all documents in PDF format to ensure formatting is preserved.
Submit your full application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume strictly under two pages; exceeding this limit results in automatic disqualification.
Use a clear, professional font such as Lato, Calibri, or Arial at 10-point size or larger.
Ensure your resume explicitly details hours worked per week and specific dates for all experience.
Proofread your application to ensure all requirements, such as education or veteran documentation, are attached correctly.
Submit well before the deadline to avoid technical issues during the peak end-of-window period.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though specific schedules are subject to agency policy and supervisor approval.

What is the maximum resume length?

Your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration entirely.

Are there specific software development requirements?

Yes, candidates must demonstrate expertise in C#/.NET frameworks and Microsoft SQL Server, as well as familiarity with Azure DevOps.

Job from Defense Media Activity

The Defense Media Activity (DMA) and the Defense Information School (DINFOS) are pillars of the Department of Defense’s public affairs and communications infrastructure. By providing world-class training and media support, these organizations ensure that information flows effectively across the entire defense enterprise. Working here means contributing to a high-standard academic environment dedicated to excellence in communication technology.