Lead the Future of National Security Training
Are you a visionary leader with a background in instructional systems design? The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking a Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief) to oversee critical training operations at the Intelligence Training Academy (ITA). This high-level position offers the chance to influence the development of the professionals tasked with protecting our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As the Branch Chief, you will serve as a primary lead within the Intelligence Training Academy. Your daily tasks will include:
- Strategic Leadership: Assisting the Director and Deputy Director in directing ITA activities and ensuring regulatory compliance.
- Curriculum Oversight: Managing the end-to-end development of training courses, from instructional design to delivery standards.
- Accreditation Management: Overseeing staff to ensure all courses and the Academy itself remain compliant with FLETA standards.
- Workforce Development: Managing the execution of career development programs and performance metrics for the I&A workforce.
- Supervision: Leading a team of specialists, managing their performance, and setting clear instructional priorities.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet stringent academic and professional standards. You must possess a degree and at least 24 semester hours of relevant coursework in:
- Learning theory
- Instructional design practices
- Educational evaluation
- Instructional product development
- Computers in education
Candidates must also have significant specialized experience at the GS-13 level, demonstrating their ability to manage complex training programs and lead personnel.
Salary and Comparison
This position is a GS-14 level role, offering a competitive compensation package that reflects the high level of responsibility and specialized expertise required.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $143,913 - $187,093 per year |
| Job Series | 1750 (Instructional Systems) |
| Grade | GS-14 |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret/SCI with Polygraph |
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Work-Life Balance: Access to telework and flexible scheduling.
- Financial Security: Federal health, life, and retirement programs.
- Professional Growth: Tuition reimbursement and ongoing training opportunities.
- Wellness: Access to fitness centers and comprehensive health resources.
Application Tips
Competition for this role is intense. To stand out:
- Watch the Limit: The two-page resume requirement is strict. Use concise, impactful bullet points to highlight your leadership achievements.
- Quantify Results: Where possible, describe the scale of the programs you managed (e.g., number of staff, number of trainees, or improvements in training effectiveness).
- Monitor the Closing Date: The vacancy is limited to 100 applications or 5 business days. Submit your materials as early as possible.
If you have the leadership skills and instructional design expertise to advance the mission of the Department of Homeland Security, this is your opportunity. Prepare your application carefully and apply to help shape the next generation of intelligence professionals.
Why This Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief, Ita) Job Matters
Shape the future of intelligence training and lead the Department of Homeland Security’s instructional mission in a critical, high-impact leadership role.
Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief, Ita) Job Overview
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Office of Intelligence & Analysis (I&A), is seeking a strategic and experienced Branch Chief for the Intelligence Training Academy (ITA). This Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (GS-14) role is pivotal in guiding the design, development, and delivery of sophisticated training programs essential to national security. You will lead teams, ensure compliance with accreditation standards, and oversee workforce development initiatives, playing a central role in strengthening the intelligence community’s capabilities.
Requirements for Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief, Ita)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must meet Individual Occupational Requirement: Degree plus 24 semester hours in relevant fields including Learning Theory, Instructional Design, Educational Evaluation, Instructional Product Development, and Educational Technology.
- Specialized experience at the GS-13 level or equivalent, including managing intelligence training programs and supervising staff.
- Must pass a background investigation for Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) with a polygraph examination.
- Must submit a resume (max 2 pages) and applicable college transcripts.
- Must be able to serve as an Emergency Essential employee during continuity of operations events.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief, Ita)
- Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams in complex environments.
- Deep understanding of Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation (FLETA) standards.
- Proven experience managing Learning Management Systems (LMS) for virtual training environments.
- Experience in individual career development planning and workforce development strategy.
- High proficiency in stakeholder collaboration and organizational communication.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance plans.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework opportunities where applicable.
- ✓Tuition reimbursement programs.
- ✓Transportation subsidies.
- ✓Access to fitness centers and wellness initiatives.
- ✓Generous federal leave and retirement benefits.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief, Ita) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Instructional Systems Specialist (Branch Chief, Ita) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a federal resume restricted to a maximum of two pages.
- Gather supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms if applicable.
- Submit your application and complete the required assessment questionnaire via the online portal.
- Monitor your status via the 'Application Status' section on USAJOBS.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or you will be automatically disqualified.
- Clearly articulate your leadership experience in managing training programs and staff.
- Ensure your transcripts document at least 24 semester hours across the required academic areas.
- Apply early; the announcement may close early if the first 100 applications are received.
- Verify all documents have cleared the virus scan after uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this role?
Yes, this position requires a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance, including a successful polygraph examination.
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.
Does this position offer relocation benefits?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
Job from Office Of Intelligence And Analysis
The Department of Homeland Security is dedicated to preventing terrorism, securing borders, and ensuring the resilience of our nation against disasters. Within DHS, the Office of Intelligence & Analysis (I&A) provides the intelligence and information sharing capabilities needed to keep our country safe. Joining the I&A means becoming part of a diverse and highly skilled workforce focused on mission-critical outcomes.