Become an Intelligence Operations Specialist at the Pentagon
Are you looking to take the next step in your career within the national security landscape? The Office of the Under Secretary of War for Intelligence and Security (OUSW(I&S)) is currently accepting applications for an Intelligence Operations Specialist. This role, based at the iconic Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia, sits at the intersection of policy development, global strategic partnerships, and defense intelligence.
Job Responsibilities
As an Intelligence Operations Specialist, your primary mission is to serve as a senior specialist representing the Department in international arenas. Key duties include:
- Strategic Advising: Providing expert guidance on intelligence and foreign partner engagement activities.
- Policy Oversight: Coordinating and approving international intelligence and security agreements.
- Team Leadership: Establishing and leading interagency committees and working groups to resolve complex issues.
- Enterprise Integration: Analyzing activities across the Defense Intelligence and Security Enterprise (DISE) to ensure alignment with national priorities.
Comparison: Standard vs. DCIPS Positions
| Feature | Standard Federal Role | DCIPS Position (This Role) |
|---|---|---|
| System | General Schedule | Excepted Service |
| Pay Structure | Standardized Grades | DCIPS Pay Banded/Graded |
| Focus | Administrative | Specialized Intelligence |
| Transfer | Competitive Service | Excepted Service (requires transfer) |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-14 equivalent position, you must demonstrate extensive experience in intelligence operations. You will be required to document your hours worked per week and specific dates of employment for every role listed on your resume. Failure to provide clear evidence of your experience may remove you from consideration.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $143,913 to $187,093 annually, commensurate with qualifications and the requirements of the high-level responsibilities involved.
Benefits
As a federal employee, you will have access to a robust benefits package, including:
- Federal Health Benefits (FEHB)
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- Paid annual and sick leave
- Flexible workplace environment
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use at least 10-point font and 0.5-inch margins.
- Assessment Completion: You will be sent an assessment link after submission. Do not miss the deadline; completion is mandatory.
- Documentation: If you are a veteran, include your DD-214 or certification of service to receive hiring preference.
Can I work remotely?
This position is currently not designated as a remote role and is performed on-site at the Pentagon.
Serving as an Intelligence Operations Specialist is a profound opportunity to influence the defense intelligence community. If you possess the experience, integrity, and analytical rigor required, we encourage you to prepare your application materials carefully and apply today.
Why This Intelligence Operations Specialist Job Matters
Shape the future of global defense partnerships at the heart of the Pentagon as an Intelligence Operations Specialist.
Intelligence Operations Specialist Job Overview
The Office of the Under Secretary of War for Intelligence and Security (OUSW(I&S)) is seeking a high-level Intelligence Operations Specialist to join their Global Partnerships (GP) Directorate. This critical role involves orchestrating international intelligence engagements, managing bilateral agreements, and ensuring that partner activities align with the National Defense Strategy. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead interagency teams and influence the strategic direction of Defense Intelligence and Security Enterprise (DISE) initiatives.
Requirements for Intelligence Operations Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access.
- Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages or fewer, adhering to specific font and margin requirements.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment within the specified timeframe.
- Must be willing to serve a 2-year trial period.
- Expertise in advising on foreign partner engagement and assessing strategic intelligence requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Intelligence Operations Specialist
- Demonstrated history of coordinating complex bilateral and multilateral intelligence agreements.
- Experience developing policy recommendations for integration of intelligence resources.
- Proven ability to lead interagency teams, steering groups, or international committees.
- Strong analytical background within the Defense Intelligence and Security Enterprise (DISE).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Intelligence Operations Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Intelligence Operations Specialist Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights hours worked per week and dates of employment for each role.
- Ensure your resume is no more than two pages in PDF format with at least 0.5-inch margins and 10-point font.
- Complete the online application and assessment questionnaire through the USAJOBS portal.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50 (if applicable) and military service documentation.
- Monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment link and complete it within the required timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Double-check your resume formatting; exceeding the two-page limit or using improper margins will result in automatic disqualification.
- When documenting experience, be precise with hours worked per week, as this is vital for eligibility verification.
- Don't wait until the last minute to upload documents; allow enough time for the portal's virus scan process.
- Practice using the resources available in the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center before starting your assessment.
- Keep your email address updated and check it regularly for status notifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this position?
Yes, this position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance with access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
Can I submit a three-page resume?
No. The resume must be strictly limited to two pages. Submissions exceeding this limit or failing to meet formatting standards will lead to an ineligible rating.
What is the expected salary range for this role?
The salary range for this position is $143,913 to $187,093 per year.
How long is the trial period?
You will be required to serve a 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and alignment with agency goals.
Job from Office Of The Secretary Of Defense
The Office of the Secretary of War serves as the principal staff for policy, planning, and resource management. Working within the Global Partnerships Directorate, you will be part of a team dedicated to safeguarding national interests through the coordination of international security efforts. This is a high-visibility, high-stakes environment where your contributions directly support the National Defense Strategy.