Become an Interagency Coordination Specialist with U.S. Northern Command
Are you a seasoned professional with a background in national security and interagency collaboration? The Department of the Air Force, through U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM), is looking for a strategic leader to serve as an Interagency Coordination Specialist in Arlington, Virginia. This high-level position offers the chance to influence national defense policy at the highest tiers.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will serve as the primary advisor to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for the command. Key duties include:
- Partnership Building: Sustaining and evolving relationships between HD, HS, and DSCA stakeholders.
- Operational Integration: Leading synchronization efforts for contingency and exercise planning.
- Team Leadership: Managing a diverse group of civilian and military staff in the Interagency Partnerships Division.
- Strategic Analysis: Resolving complex operational or programmatic issues that impact national-level equities.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-15 position, you must demonstrate exceptional experience.
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Experience | At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level. |
| Clearance | Ability to obtain and maintain an SCI security clearance. |
| Legal | Must be a U.S. citizen and pass a mandatory drug screening. |
| Key Status | Must not be a member of the Ready Reserve due to 'Key Position' designation. |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $169,279 to $220,065 per year. Beyond the salary, federal employees enjoy robust benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, a generous retirement plan (FERS), and opportunities for professional growth in a unique, high-stakes environment.
Application Tips
Candidates must be meticulous. Your resume must not exceed two pages. Ensure it explicitly lists your hours worked per week and the exact dates (month/year) for your past experience. Missing this data may lead to an automatic disqualification from the process.
This role is a unique opportunity to contribute to the nation’s security architecture. If you possess the experience, leadership skills, and commitment to national service, we encourage you to review the application requirements and submit your package before the November 2, 2026, deadline.
Why This Interagency Coordination Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of national security as a Senior Advisor to the Department of Homeland Security with U.S. Northern Command.
Interagency Coordination Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) is seeking a highly skilled Interagency Coordination Specialist to serve as a vital link between the Command and the Department of Homeland Security. Based in Arlington, Virginia, this GS-15 leadership role is critical to our national defense and civil support mission. You will manage complex interagency relationships, lead diverse teams, and provide expert guidance on Homeland Defense and Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA).
Requirements for Interagency Coordination Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level or equivalent.
- Completion of a pre-employment drug test and ongoing participation in the Air Force Civilian Drug Testing Program.
- Agreement to the conditions of a 'Key Position,' meaning the incumbent cannot be a member of the Ready Reserve.
- Resume must not exceed two pages and include hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Interagency Coordination Specialist
- Expert knowledge of N&NC roles, missions, authorities, and interagency collaboration architectures.
- Proven ability to influence senior-level leadership across federal, state, and tribal governments.
- Comprehensive understanding of Homeland Security and DSCA policy development and analysis.
- Experience leading diverse teams of military and civilian personnel.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Health and Life Insurance programs
- ✓Retirement Savings (FERS/Thrift Savings Plan)
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays, Annual Leave, and Sick Leave
- ✓Situational Telework eligibility
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
💡 How to Apply Interagency Coordination Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Interagency Coordination Specialist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the application questionnaire.
- Prepare a resume that adheres strictly to the two-page limit and includes all required employment data.
- Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s, transcripts, or veteran preference documentation.
- Submit your application and required documents before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
- Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week and specific dates (month/year) for every role.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents are clearly legible and include your full name.
- Focus your resume on accomplishments that demonstrate your expertise at the GS-14/15 level.
- Use the provided checklists for military spouse or PPP preferences to ensure your eligibility is verified.
- Submit your application early to account for potential technical delays or virus scans of uploaded files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'Key Position'?
A Key Position is a role deemed essential to national security that cannot be vacated during a national emergency. Therefore, incumbents cannot be members of the Ready Reserve.
Can I telework in this position?
Yes, this position is eligible for situational telework, such as Ad hoc or emergency scenarios, subject to supervisory approval.
What is the primary focus of this role?
*A: The role focuses on serving as the senior advisor to DHS and synchronizing interagency efforts for homeland defense.*
Is travel required?
*A: Yes, situational TDY (temporary duty) travel is required, which may include military or commercial aircraft.*
Job from U.S. Northern Command
USNORTHCOM is charged with the critical mission of deterring, preventing, and defeating threats aimed at the United States. Beyond traditional defense, the command plays a pivotal role in providing Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) during national emergencies. As a member of this team, you will work within the National Capital Region to synchronize efforts between military, federal, and private sector partners.