Become a Technical Advisor for the Space Security & Defense Program (SSDP)
Are you an expert in space systems, vulnerability assessment, and defense strategy? The United States Space Force (USSF) is currently seeking a highly qualified Technical Advisor for the Space Security & Defense Program (SSDP). This senior-level (SL) position offers the opportunity to drive national-level strategy at the intersection of intelligence and military operations.
Job Responsibilities
As the principal advisor to the SSDP Director, you will:
- Coordinate national-scope efforts to develop space vulnerability assessments and mitigation strategies.
- Interface with senior leadership in the Intelligence Community and the Department of Defense.
- Oversee the execution of the Annual Work Plan through disciplined engineering and rigorous project management.
- Evaluate adversary and U.S. space systems to protect critical capabilities.
Requirements
To be considered for this elite role, you must meet the following mandatory criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- A qualifying degree for the 0801 General Engineer series.
- Ability to maintain a Special-Sensitive High-Risk security clearance.
- Submission of a 2-page resume and a separate 2-page MTQ narrative in PDF format.
Salary and Benefits
This position provides a competitive federal salary, commensurate with the responsibilities of a Senior Level executive:
| Pay Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Minimum Annual Salary | $151,662 |
| Maximum Annual Salary | $209,600 |
| Grade Level | Senior Level (SL) |
Additional benefits include relocation assistance, federal health and retirement benefits, and potential recruitment/relocation incentives.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via the official USAJOBS portal by 11:59 PM (ET) on November 16, 2026. Please ensure all documents are in PDF format and strictly adhere to the formatting guidelines provided in the job announcement.
This is a career-defining opportunity for a seasoned technical expert to influence the trajectory of American space superiority. If you possess the leadership vision and deep technical knowledge required to secure our space architecture, we encourage you to submit your application package promptly.
Why This Technical Advisor - Space Security & Defense Program (Ssdp) Job Matters
Lead the future of space superiority and defense strategy as the primary Technical Advisor for the United States Space Force.
Technical Advisor - Space Security & Defense Program (Ssdp) Job Overview
The Space Security & Defense Program (SSDP) is seeking a visionary Technical Advisor to serve as the chief subject matter expert and principal strategist. In this high-level role, you will interface with the USSF, Intelligence Community, and Department of Defense leadership to shape national-scope space protection policies and architectural evaluations. This position offers a unique opportunity to influence the operational, intelligence, and technical frameworks that secure our nation's freedom of operation in the space domain.
Requirements for Technical Advisor - Space Security & Defense Program (Ssdp)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Special Sensitive/High-Risk security clearance
- Successful completion of a drug test
- Must be able to maintain Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) access
- Educational degree qualifying for the 0801 General Engineer job series
- Must meet strict formatting requirements: 2-page resume limit, Times New Roman, 12pt font, PDF format
- Submission of a separate, 2-page narrative addressing Mandatory Technical Qualifications (MTQs)
Preferred Qualifications for Technical Advisor - Space Security & Defense Program (Ssdp)
- Master’s degree or higher in engineering or a relevant scientific discipline
- Active ETM Practitioner certification
- Extensive experience working with Intelligence Community and Department of Defense processes
- Proven track record of leading teams through complex engineering and architectural analysis
- Deep technical expertise in both U.S. and adversary space systems
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Relocation/PCS costs authorized
- ✓Recruitment or Relocation Incentives may be available
- ✓Federal health, retirement, and insurance benefits
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Eligible for telework depending on mission requirements
- ✓Disabled veteran leave for qualifying candidates
💡 How to Apply Technical Advisor - Space Security & Defense Program (Ssdp) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Technical Advisor - Space Security & Defense Program (Ssdp) Job
- Review all requirements and format your documents as PDFs in Times New Roman 12pt font.
- Draft your two-page resume following the specific content requirements (exclude SSN).
- Prepare a separate, two-page narrative responding to the three Mandatory Technical Qualifications (MTQs).
- Gather your SF-50 (if applicable), college transcripts, and military documentation (DD214/retirement orders if applicable).
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account and complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your complete package by the closing date of November 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload your own PDF.
- Focus on recent experience; hiring officials may deprioritize work older than 10 years.
- Ensure your narrative for the MTQs clearly articulates your leadership in space-related technical operations.
- Double-check your PDF files; the system may take up to one hour to clear virus scans.
- Verify your submission status via your USAJOBS dashboard after applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the security clearance requirement for this role?
This position is designated as Special-Sensitive (SS)/High Risk and requires the ability to handle Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI).
Can I submit more than 2 pages for my MTQ narrative?
No, the Mandatory Technical Qualifications narrative must not exceed 2 pages total, and the resume must not exceed 2 pages.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
The role is telework-eligible, but it is not a fully remote position and requires physical presence at the designated location.
Job from Department Of The Air Force Headquarters
The United States Space Force is an independent branch of the Armed Forces operating under the Department of the Air Force. Its mission is to organize, train, and equip forces to secure the space domain, ensuring freedom of movement and operation for the United States and our allies. The SSDP serves as a critical nexus for these efforts, coordinating policy and technical rigor across multiple government agencies.