Launch Your Federal IT Career at the Defense Security Cooperation Agency
Are you a systems analyst with a passion for driving mission-critical IT solutions? The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) is currently hiring an Information Technology Specialist (SYSANALYSIS) in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the U.S. governmentโs efforts to build capacity for foreign partners while advancing your career within a secure, high-stakes environment.
Role Responsibilities
As an IT Specialist (SYSANALYSIS), you will be the bridge between technical IT development and the functional users of our systems. Your day-to-day responsibilities will include:
- Systems Interface: Acting as the primary liaison between DSCA directorates, Military Departments (MILDEP), and the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.
- Business Process Design: Designing, developing, and testing business process elements to ensure seamless system integration.
- Project Execution: Planning and executing complex testing processes, including the creation of high-quality, production-grade test data.
- Strategic Analysis: Reviewing and evaluating proposed changes to automated systems to determine their impact on existing configuration software units.
Requirements & Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific professional and educational benchmarks.
| Level | Experience/Education Requirements |
|---|---|
| GS-11 | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or Ph.D./3 years of graduate education. |
| GS-12 | 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level. |
All applicants must demonstrate competency in Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Interpersonal Skills, Problem Solving, Teamwork, and Technical Competence. Additionally, the selected candidate must successfully complete the DoD Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) Basic and Foundational certifications within the first year of employment.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $76,190 to $118,718 annually. Beyond the salary, employees enjoy the comprehensive benefits package typical of the federal government, including robust healthcare coverage, retirement plans (FERS), and generous paid time off.
Application Tips for Success
- Format Matters: Use a PDF format for your resume and strictly adhere to the two-page limit. The automated system will reject any document that does not conform to these instructions.
- Focus on Specifics: Clearly define the number of hours worked per week on your resume. Vague descriptions of your experience may lead to lower qualification ratings.
- Prepare for Assessment: You will be required to complete an online questionnaire. Treat this as seriously as an interview, as it is the primary filter used by the HR department.
If you are a dedicated professional looking to apply your systems analysis skills to a mission that matters, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency wants to hear from you. Review the official announcement, prepare your documentation carefully, and submit your application to start your journey in Mechanicsburg today.
Why This Information Technology Specialist (Sysanalysis) Job Matters
Join the Defense Security Cooperation Agency as an IT Specialist and drive the technological infrastructure supporting global security initiatives.
Information Technology Specialist (Sysanalysis) Job Overview
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) is seeking a skilled Information Technology Specialist (SYSANALYSIS) to join our team in Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania. In this role, you will act as a critical bridge between Information Management and Technology (IM&T) teams and internal stakeholders, including various Directorates and Military Departments. You will focus on business process design, system maintenance, and ensuring that technical requirements align with mission-critical security objectives.
Requirements for Information Technology Specialist (Sysanalysis)
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (for GS-12) or GS-09 level (for GS-11) or equivalent.
- Proven competency in systems analysis, including fact-finding, requirements gathering, and business process evaluation.
- Ability to translate complex technical jargon into clear, actionable business language for executive stakeholders.
- Completion of DoD Security Cooperation Workforce (SCW) Basic and Foundational certifications within one year of hire.
- U.S. Citizenship and the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages (PDF format, minimum 10-point font).
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Information Technology Specialist (Sysanalysis)
- Experience in designing business processes within a federal regulatory environment.
- Proven track record of managing functional and non-functional IT requirements.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with diverse internal and external stakeholders.
- Advanced degree (Ph.D. or equivalent) or three years of progressively higher-level graduate education.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- โComprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- โParticipation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- โOpportunities for professional development and continuous learning.
- โGenerous leave policies, including paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick time.
- โTelework eligibility options consistent with agency policy.
๐ก How to Apply Information Technology Specialist (Sysanalysis) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Information Technology Specialist (Sysanalysis) Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full announcement and prepare your application package, including a 2-page resume.
- Complete the online assessment questionnaire to verify your qualifications.
- Submit all required documentation, including transcripts (if applicable) and SF-50s, by the closing date.
- Monitor your email for notifications regarding application receipt and assessment status.
๐ก General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages; documents exceeding this limit will be automatically disqualified.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for each position.
- Use standard fonts such as Lato, Calibri, or Arial to ensure your PDF is easily scannable by our systems.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly display the school name, degree conferred, and credits earned.
- Complete the online questionnaire honestly, as your responses are the foundation of your initial qualification rating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?
No. Any resume exceeding the two-page limit or failing to meet formatting requirements (such as margins or font size) will result in immediate disqualification.
What level of security clearance is required for this position?
This role requires a Secret security clearance. You must be able to obtain and maintain this level of access throughout your tenure.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, the position is telework eligible, though actual schedules are subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.
Job from Defense Security Cooperation Agency
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) acts as the heartbeat of the U.S. security cooperation enterprise. By training, educating, and equipping foreign partners, the agency advances national security and foreign policy goals. Employees at the DSCA work on the cutting edge of global logistics, finance, and technical systems, ensuring that our nation's partnerships are supported by efficient, modern, and reliable IT infrastructure.
