Launch Your IT Career with the Kansas National Guard
Are you a dedicated IT professional ready to apply your technical skills to a mission-critical role? The Kansas National Guard is currently seeking an IT Specialist (Systems Administration) to support the Joint Forces Headquarters in Leavenworth, Kansas. This is a rare opportunity to manage wide area networks (WAN) and local area networks (LAN) while contributing to the security and operational efficiency of the National Guard.
Job Responsibilities
As a technical specialist in the GS-2210 series, your primary duties will revolve around the complex integration and maintenance of the state's integrated command and control network. You will be responsible for:
- Network Administration: Ensuring high performance, security, and uptime for all WAN and LAN systems.
- Optimization: Continuously monitoring network performance and implementing upgrades.
- Project Leadership: Coordinating with personnel outside your unit to execute IT projects and developing necessary project controls.
- Documentation: Performing cost/benefit studies and documenting system adaptations to meet evolving mission needs.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific military and professional standards:
- Military Grade: You must be between E-4 and E-6, with a 35T assignment.
- Specialized Experience: One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade, demonstrating the ability to handle complex computer application environments.
- Certification: You must secure the required Information Assurance (IA) certification within six months of appointment.
- Technical Proficiency: A strong foundation in general management principles and data processing systems.
Comparison of Qualification Pathways
| Pathway | Minimum Requirement | Documentation Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Professional Experience | 1 Year specialized experience at next lower grade | Detailed resume with specific tasks |
| Education Substitution | PhD or 3 years of graduate education | Official transcripts |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $89,558 to $116,432 per year. Compensation is commensurate with your level of experience and adherence to the federal pay scale for GS-11 positions.
Benefits
Beyond a competitive salary, the position offers the stability of a federal role. Employees may also be eligible for:
- Recruiting or relocation incentives (case-by-case).
- Comprehensive federal career development pathways.
- The satisfaction of contributing to critical state-wide operations.
Application Tips for Success
- Tailor Your Resume: Keep your resume under two pages. Ensure you clearly state your duties in your own words rather than copying from the job description.
- Verify Your SF-50: If you are a current or former federal employee, your SF-50 is vital for verifying your grade and series.
- Check the Questionnaire: The online Occupational Questionnaire is a critical piece of the evaluation process. Answer it honestly and ensure it is supported by your resume.
If you have the technical expertise and the drive to support the Kansas National Guard, this IT Specialist role offers an incredible path for growth. Submit your application by the November 10th deadline to start your journey with the Joint Forces Headquarters. Your skills in systems administration are exactly what we need to keep our networks secure and operational.
Why This It Specialist (Systems Administration) Job Matters
Elevate your career in IT systems administration with the Kansas National Guard, providing critical network infrastructure support in Leavenworth.
It Specialist (Systems Administration) Job Overview
The Kansas National Guard is seeking a dedicated IT Specialist (Systems Administration) to join the Joint Forces Headquarters. In this Title 32 Excepted Service role, you will act as a vital technical expert responsible for the optimization, administration, and performance of wide area networks (WAN) and local area networks (LAN). You will play a crucial role in maintaining the state's mission-critical command and control systems, ensuring robust performance and seamless integration across organizational units.
Requirements for It Specialist (Systems Administration)
- Must be in military grade E-4 through E-6.
- Must hold compatible military assignment (35T).
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade.
- Information Assurance Certification is required within six months of hire.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance.
- Must pass a drug screening.
- If born after 12/31/1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for It Specialist (Systems Administration)
- PhD or equivalent doctoral degree in computer science, engineering, or information systems.
- Three years of progressively higher-level graduate education in a relevant field.
- Demonstrated experience in project control and cost/benefit studies for IT initiatives.
- Strong background in adapting guidelines and precedents for complex network assignments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee benefits eligibility
- ✓Potential for recruiting or relocation incentives
- ✓Stable, traditional office environment
- ✓Professional development through military certification pathways
💡 How to Apply It Specialist (Systems Administration) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for It Specialist (Systems Administration) Job
- Ensure you have a valid USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume (maximum two pages) detailing relevant technical experience.
- Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s, college transcripts, and relevant certifications.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Limit your resume to two pages and use your own words to describe duties; do not copy/paste from the announcement.
- Explicitly detail how your experience meets the GS-11 qualification requirements.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your pay plan, series, and grade.
- Double-check that all uploaded files are legible and correct before final submission.
- Monitor your email for status notifications from the Human Resources Office.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of security clearance is required for this role?
This position requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
Is telework available for this position?
No, this position is not listed as telework eligible and requires presence in a traditional office setting.
What happens if I don't have my Information Assurance certification yet?
You must obtain the required IA certification within six months of your start date, per DoD 8570.01-M standards.
Can I telework in this position?
No, this position requires onsite performance in a traditional office setting.
What is the drug testing policy?
Drug testing is a requirement for this position due to the nature of the work.
Is there a residency requirement?
While you must be able to work in Leavenworth, please review the specific relocation policy provided during the interview phase.
Job from Army National Guard Units
The National Guard is the oldest component of the United States Armed Forces. With a proud history of supporting our friends and neighbors during emergencies, the National Guard offers a unique blend of civilian career stability and public service. By joining the Kansas National Guard, you are not just taking a job; you are becoming part of a community dedicated to the defense and service of the state and the nation.