Become a Deputy Division Chief at the ATF: Lead Transparency and Information Governance
Are you a seasoned policy expert ready to take the next step in your federal career? The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is currently seeking a highly skilled Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief) in Washington, D.C. This GS-15 position offers a unique opportunity to shape the agency's transparency landscape while leading a team of dedicated professionals.
Job Responsibilities
As the Deputy Division Chief, you will act as the primary advisor to the Division Chief regarding Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act (PA) mandates. Your core duties include:
- Strategic Oversight: Managing the division’s operations and strategic direction to ensure timely responses to information requests.
- Technical Leadership: Mentoring staff, overseeing quality assurance, and providing guidance on complex disclosure determinations.
- Operational Management: Utilizing case-management and eDiscovery tools to track workloads, maintain case integrity, and improve program efficiencies.
- Stakeholder Communication: Coordinating with legal counsel, agency leadership, and external requesters to resolve interagency issues.
Comparison of Requirements
| Requirement Type | Detail |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-15 |
| Experience Requirement | One year at GS-14 level equivalent |
| Security Clearance | Top Secret |
| Resume Length | Absolute maximum of 2 pages |
| Assessment | Required (USA Hire) |
Requirements
To be considered for this high-level role, you must demonstrate significant experience in FOIA/PA administration. Candidates must be U.S. citizens and able to obtain a Top Secret clearance. Furthermore, you must be prepared to sign a mobility agreement, ensuring the flexibility to adapt to the Bureau's evolving mission needs.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $169,279 to $197,200 per year. In addition to base pay, you will have access to the robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Federal pension plans and TSP matching.
- Generous paid leave accrual.
- Professional development and telework opportunities.
Application Tips
Your resume is the most critical component of your application. Use action-oriented language to demonstrate your mastery of FOIA/PA statutes. Be specific: include your pay plan, series, grade, and exact hours worked for every position. Remember, the two-page limit is strictly enforced—do not risk disqualification by exceeding it.
Serving as the Deputy Division Chief at the ATF is a career-defining role. If you are a solution-oriented professional with a passion for public transparency and law enforcement support, submit your application today to join a team that values integrity and constitutional governance.
Why This Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief) Job Matters
Shape the future of public transparency at the ATF as a Deputy Division Chief, leading strategic Freedom of Information and Privacy Act operations at the highest level of federal governance.
Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief) Job Overview
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is seeking an expert leader to serve as the Deputy Division Chief for the Office of Public and Governmental Affairs. In this pivotal GS-15 role, you will provide critical technical advice to the Division Chief, oversee the complex processing of FOIA and Privacy Act requests, and direct the strategic operations of the division to ensure federal transparency and compliance.
Requirements for Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief)
- U.S. Citizenship or National.
- Registration with the Selective Service System if born male on or after December 31, 1959.
- Must pass a drug screening and participate in random drug testing.
- Suitability for federal employment based on a background investigation.
- Must meet all time-in-grade requirements by the application closing date.
- Ability to sign a mandatory mobility agreement for career development and mission effectiveness.
- Submission of a strictly two-page resume detailing relevant specialized experience.
- Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Financial disclosure filing as required by DOJ ethics guidelines.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief)
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level.
- Extensive background in analyzing and processing complex FOIA/PA requests using statutory exemptions.
- Proven experience in managing interagency consultations and complex records-processing issues.
- History of providing senior-level technical review, quality assurance, and litigation support.
- Demonstrated skill in personnel management, including performance evaluation and staff mentorship.
- Expertise in FOIA case-management software and electronic discovery tools.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Comprehensive life insurance and long-term care options.
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the FERS pension and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Flexible work options, including telework eligibility.
- ✓Ongoing professional development and leadership training.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Government Information Specialist (Deputy Division Chief) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a two-page resume that explicitly links your history to the required specialized experience.
- Complete the online application questionnaire through the USAJOBS portal.
- Upload required documentation, such as SF-50 forms or veterans preference paperwork.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 4, 2026.
- Monitor your email for a unique URL to complete the mandatory USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Track your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly to two pages or less; exceeding this limit will lead to automatic disqualification.
- For every job entry, include the employer name, exact start/end dates, hours per week, pay plan/series/grade, and concrete accomplishments.
- When addressing specialized experience, ensure your resume provides evidence that mirrors the job description requirements.
- Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment; do not wait until the last minute.
- Check your spam folder regularly for official communications regarding your assessment invitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the resume limit for this position?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or less. Submitting a resume longer than two pages will result in immediate disqualification from the selection process.
Is education substitution allowed for this role?
No. You must meet the qualification requirements through relevant specialized experience alone; there is no provision for substituting education for this experience.
What is the mobility agreement requirement?
New employees must sign a mobility agreement as part of the hiring process. This policy is designed to facilitate career growth and mission effectiveness through periodic short-term or permanent reassignments.
What if I don't have time to finish the USA Hire assessment?
*A: You will have a unique URL provided via email. Ensure you set aside three hours of uninterrupted time, as this assessment is a mandatory requirement for eligibility.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: This position does not offer relocation incentives.*
Job from Bureau Of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms And Explosives
The ATF is a vital component of the U.S. Department of Justice, committed to reducing violent crime and protecting the public. By investigating the illegal use of firearms and explosives, combatting arson, and regulating the alcohol and tobacco industries, the ATF serves as a cornerstone of national security. As a member of the Office of Public and Governmental Affairs, you will play an essential role in upholding the public's right to information.