Operational Test Manager: Shaping the Future of Army Special Operations

The U.S. Army Special Operations Command (USASOC) is seeking a highly skilled and strategic professional to fill the role of Operational Test Manager. This position is a cornerstone for the G-8 Test and Integration Evaluation Division, serving as the bridge between cutting-edge technology and the warfighters who depend on it. If you have a background in test and evaluation and want to serve in a critical capacity, this is your opportunity.

Job Responsibilities

As an Operational Test Manager, you will serve as the primary point of contact for the coordination and performance of testing for all Army and Joint SOF peculiar programs. Key duties include:

Chairing test report reviews and providing authoritative recommendations on Test Plans.
Managing cross-functional test teams through all phases of evaluations.
Representing the USASOC Commander at high-level committees where system requirements are determined.
Coordinating with materiel developers, Army Materiel Command (AMC), and TRADOC to refine evaluation processes.

Comparison Table: Job Requirements

Requirement	Description
Position Level	GS-13
Security Clearance	Top Secret
Location	Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Travel Requirement	Required (2)
Certification	Level III T&E (within 24 months)

Requirements

To be considered for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the specialized experience requirement of one year at the GS-12 grade level. Your resume must clearly outline your experience in managing test packages, analyzing test data, and briefing command staff. Additionally, you must be prepared to submit to drug testing and satisfy a comprehensive background investigation for a Critical-Sensitive/High Risk designation.

Salary Overview

This position is classified under the GS-13 pay scale, with an annual salary range of $111,147 to $144,493, depending on qualifications and locality pay adjustments.

Benefits

Employees of the U.S. Army enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Competitive salary with annual adjustments.
Comprehensive federal health and dental/vision insurance.
Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for retirement security.
Generous annual and sick leave accrual.

Application Tips

Watch the Resume Length: The system will automatically reject any resume exceeding two pages.
Documentation is Key: Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your tenure to meet time-in-grade requirements.
Stay Proactive: After submitting, monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment link, which must be completed within 48 hours.

Serving as an Operational Test Manager at USASOC is a unique opportunity to directly impact the capabilities of America’s elite forces. With a high level of responsibility and a focus on critical-sensitive operations, this role is ideal for experienced professionals ready to make a lasting difference in the Department of the Army.

Why This Operational Test Manager Job Matters

Take command of specialized military testing at the U.S. Army Special Operations Command, where your expertise directly shapes the future of elite forces.

Operational Test Manager Job Overview

The U.S. Special Operations Command is seeking an Operational Test Manager to join the G-8 Test and Integration Evaluation Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. This high-impact role is essential to ensuring that Army Special Operations Forces possess the advanced, effective systems required for mission success. You will serve as the primary liaison between materiel developers and command staff, ensuring that testing protocols, data analysis, and equipment evaluations meet the rigorous standards of the Army.

Requirements for Operational Test Manager

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
Completion of a pre-employment drug test and participation in recurring testing.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Ability to meet Level III certification in Test and Evaluation within 24 months.
Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages.
Must satisfy Time-in-Grade requirements if currently in a GS position.

Preferred Qualifications for Operational Test Manager

Extensive experience in managing test packages within Army Directives.
Demonstrated ability to analyze effectiveness of military systems.
Strong communication skills for preparing executive-level briefings.
Proven track record of facilitating cross-organizational test teams.
Familiarity with Joint SOF peculiar programs and Army common testing protocols.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay.
✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP).
✓Paid vacation and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.

💡 How to Apply Operational Test Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Operational Test Manager Job

Review the full job announcement carefully to confirm eligibility.
Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting relevant experience.
Click the Apply Online link to start your questionnaire.
Attach all required documentation, including SF-50s and proof of eligibility.
Complete the required online assessments within 48 hours of closing if notified.
Submit your final package before 11:59 PM ET on November 2, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise; the system will automatically reject submissions longer than two pages.
Use plain, clear language rather than excessive jargon or unexplained acronyms.
Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your time-in-grade to avoid disqualification.
Check your application status frequently via your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Do not wait until the final hours to apply to account for technical troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is education a substitute for the experience requirement?

No. This position requires qualifying based on professional experience alone; education cannot be substituted for the specialized experience required.

What level of security clearance is required?

This position requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.

Is telework available for this role?

No, this position is not listed as telework-eligible.

Job from U.S. Special Operations Command (Army)

Located at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, the U.S. Army Special Operations Command is responsible for the readiness of Army Special Operations Forces. The G-8 Division ensures that all equipment and systems tested are not only effective but ready for the unique, high-intensity requirements of global SOF missions. Civilian employees are treated as essential members of the 'Total Army,' providing specialized technical knowledge that complements the military mission.