Launch Your Career: Program Analyst at the Center for Security Forces

The Department of the Navy is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join the Center for Security Forces (CENSECFOR) as a Program Analyst. Located at the Little Creek Amphibious Base in Virginia, this position is essential to maintaining the high standards of military training and readiness. If you are a professional looking to blend logistics expertise with a commitment to national security, this role is for you.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Analyst, your daily tasks will be diverse and highly consequential:

Equipment Lifecycle Management: Manage the entire lifespan of SAWS training equipment, from procurement and upgrades to maintenance and eventual disposal.
Contract Oversight: Serve as the Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR), ensuring all contractors meet their performance work statements.
Analytical Support: Conduct cost-benefit analyses to inform procurement and phase replacement strategies.
Policy Enforcement: Participate in site assessments and enforce training equipment maintenance policies to ensure safety and accuracy.

Requirements

To be considered for this position, candidates must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level or equivalent. Key requirements include:

Technical Proficiency: Deep knowledge of small arms maintenance, marksmanship principles, and equipment inventory procedures.
Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze regulations and apply them to management practices.
Communication: Exceptional verbal and written skills, used for reporting findings to leadership and negotiating with stakeholders.

Grade Level Comparison

Grade Level	Experience Required	Typical Responsibilities
GS-11	Entry Level Specialized	Task Execution
GS-12 (This Role)	Advanced Specialized	Project Management & Oversight

Salary Overview

This position is classified as a GS-12 role, offering a competitive annual salary ranging from $90,838 to $118,092, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides an excellent benefits package, including:

Health and life insurance options.
Retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Ensure every experience entry includes hours per week, dates, and clear duties.
Understand the Assessments: You will likely be asked to complete the USA Hire assessments. Prepare in advance to ensure your best performance.
Follow Directions: Read the announcement in its entirety before beginning. Missing one document can lead to an automatic rejection.

This role offers a unique opportunity to serve your country while utilizing your specialized logistics and program management skills. If you are ready to take the next step in your career, review the announcement, prepare your documentation, and submit your application today.

Why This Program Analyst Job Matters

Advance your career in defense logistics with the Department of the Navy—manage critical training equipment life cycles and small arms maintenance programs at the Center for Security Forces.

Program Analyst Job Overview

The Center for Security Forces (CENSECFOR) is seeking a dedicated Program Analyst to join the Logistics and Material Readiness Directorate. In this vital role, you will provide expert technical guidance on small arms maintenance, training equipment life cycles, and inventory management. You will serve as the Contracting Officer’s Representative, ensuring performance standards are met while supporting Anti-Terrorism and Expeditionary Warfare missions. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine administrative precision with tactical mission support, directly impacting the readiness of the U.S. Navy.

Requirements for Program Analyst

U.S. Citizenship.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level (or equivalent private/public sector experience).
Detailed knowledge of small arms marksmanship principles, maintenance, and handling procedures.
Ability to interpret and apply complex laws, policies, and regulations to program analysis.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Resume must clearly detail relevant experience, including dates and hours per week.
Competency in written communication and analytical reporting.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst

Experience managing life cycle maintenance for technical training equipment.
Background serving as a Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR).
Proven track record of managing and archiving contract performance documentation.
Ability to influence and motivate groups through expert persuasion and negotiation techniques.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Extensive professional development and training opportunities.
✓Competitive salary range with federal pay step increases.
✓Opportunities for telework based on agency policy.
✓Exposure to challenging, mission-critical national security environments.

💡 How to Apply Program Analyst Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Analyst Job

Submit your resume via the online application portal before the closing date.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload all supporting documentation.
Participate in the USA Hire competency-based assessments if invited.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS portal to track your application progress.
Ensure your resume is no more than 2 pages and contains all required details regarding past employment.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all required fields are included.
Be specific about your accomplishments; quantify your impact whenever possible.
Set aside at least two hours for the USA Hire assessments to ensure you are not rushed.
Redact sensitive personal information like SSNs from uploaded documents.
Review your application thoroughly to avoid errors that could disqualify your submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of this Program Analyst position?

The role focuses on supporting the Logistics and Material Readiness Directorate by managing training equipment life cycles, overseeing small arms maintenance, and acting as a Contracting Officer's Representative.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Can I submit a resume longer than two pages?

No, this specific vacancy announcement restricts resumes to a maximum of 2 pages.

What is the closing date for this application?

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on October 30, 2026.

Can I apply if I am not a veteran?

Yes, the position is open to the public.

Job from Naval Education And Training Command

The Naval Education and Training Command, specifically the Center for Security Forces, provides specialized training to Navy and Marine Corps personnel. Working with the Department of the Navy means joining a team dedicated to safeguarding freedoms through innovation and professional excellence. Civilian employees play a crucial role in enabling military success by providing the administrative, logistical, and technical framework required to train our forces effectively.