Become a Telecommunications Specialist with FEMA
Are you looking for a career that combines high-level technical expertise with a meaningful mission? FEMA is currently seeking a dedicated Telecommunications Specialist to join the Office of Response and Recovery in Washington, D.C. This role is essential for ensuring that emergency responders remain connected during the most critical moments of disaster management.
Job Responsibilities
As a Telecommunications Specialist, you will act as a technical authority on communications policy and technology. Your core duties include:
- Providing expert guidance on the installation, operation, and maintenance of complex telecommunications systems.
- Serving as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) on project teams.
- Interpreting technical requirements and standards to improve system capabilities.
- Keeping leadership informed of emerging technologies and industry trends.
- Contributing to emergency management operations, which may involve irregular hours and deployment to disaster zones.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level |
| Clearance | Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information |
| Drug Testing | Mandatory pre-employment and random drug testing |
| Deployment | Ability to deploy on short notice for extended periods |
Salary and Benefits
The salary for this position ranges from $121,785 to $158,322 per year. Beyond the competitive base pay, employees receive a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive insurance options (health, dental, vision, life).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Paid holidays and generous vacation leave.
- Flexible work arrangements and professional training.
Application Tips
- Respect the Page Limit: Your resume must be strictly two pages or less.
- Be Specific: Describe your accomplishments in your own words. Do not copy/paste from the announcement.
- Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to complete the USA Hire assessments after submission.
This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of advanced technology and national security. If you have the required technical background and a passion for public service, apply today to help FEMA continue its vital work for the American people.
Why This Telecommunications Specialist Job Matters
Ready to lead the future of emergency communications? Become the backbone of FEMA's disaster response as a Telecommunications Specialist.
Telecommunications Specialist Job Overview
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is seeking a highly skilled Telecommunications Specialist to join the Office of Response and Recovery in Washington, D.C. This vital role serves as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in National Emergency Communications Preparedness, maintaining critical infrastructure and providing technical guidance during life-saving operations. You will support mission-critical communication systems, including Gold and CLAN, while ensuring operational readiness for disaster responses nationwide.
Requirements for Telecommunications Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug test and participate in random drug testing.
- Willingness to deploy to emergency sites with little to no notice.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Government credit card.
- Selective Service registration for applicable male applicants.
Preferred Qualifications for Telecommunications Specialist
- Advanced expertise in National Emergency Communications Preparedness (NECP).
- Deep working knowledge of Gold and CLAN systems.
- Technical proficiency with COMSEC systems and encryption algorithms.
- Demonstrated ability to serve as a technical authority on complex communication projects.
- Experience applying new technical theories to solve unique communication problems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent) with government contributions.
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework options.
- ✓Transportation subsidies and fitness center access.
- ✓Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
💡 How to Apply Telecommunications Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Telecommunications Specialist Job
- Prepare a concise resume (two-page maximum).
- Visit the USAJobs application portal and initiate your application.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s or veterans' preference documents.
- Submit your application before the midnight deadline on the closing date.
- Follow the emailed link to complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the provided timeframe.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are met.
- Do not copy/paste duty descriptions from the announcement into your resume.
- Focus your resume on specific accomplishments and measurable impact rather than just tasks.
- For federal applicants, clearly list the grade level, series, and dates held for all past positions.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessment as it is a critical part of the evaluation.
- Check your status frequently via the Application Dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is travel required for this position?
Yes. This position involves emergency management responsibilities that may require travel to disaster sites with little notice, often for extended periods in austere conditions.
Is there a page limit for the resume?
Yes. Your resume must be two pages or fewer. Any resume exceeding this limit will result in disqualification.
What is the security clearance level?
This position requires a Top Secret Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI) clearance.
What if I have a disability that prevents me from completing the online assessment?
*A: You may request a Reasonable Accommodation through your online application prior to beginning the assessment.*
Is this position eligible for remote work?
*A: This position is not designated as remote; it is based in Washington, D.C., and requires on-call emergency responsiveness.*
Job from Federal Emergency Management Agency
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is a mission-driven organization tasked with helping people before, during, and after disasters. As a component of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), FEMA works to ensure the nation is prepared for any emergency, coordinating with federal, state, and local partners to save lives and protect property.