About the opportunity
This position is recruited under 10 USC 1599f into the Cyber Excepted Service (CES) and does not convey eligibility to be converted to the Competitive Service. It supports the mission of the US Cyber Command within the DISA – J6/J63C12 at Lackland AFB, Texas. The role provides analysis and independent interpretation of organizational security policies utilizing Defense-in-Depth methodologies, configures system components, enforces security policies, and applies IT and cybersecurity principles to Linux and Windows servers, clients, and virtual systems. Responsibilities also include managing software and hardware fixes, identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities, managing accounts and access rights, and participating in shift work to maintain 24/7/365 operational readiness.
Salary and benefits
- Salary range of $115,475 to $150,119 per year including a Targeted Local Market Supplement (TLMS)
- Moving costs may be paid, including possible Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA)
- Recruitment, relocation, or retention incentives may be authorized
- Salary plus Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) where authorized
Who can apply?
- Must meet basic competencies: Attention to Detail, Customer Service, Oral Communication, and Problem Solving
- Must possess at least one year of specialized qualifying experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GG-13), defined as serving as a system administrator managing Linux and Windows environments, implementing and enforcing cybersecurity policies and security controls, or identifying, mitigating, and remediating system vulnerabilities while maintaining system integrity
- There is no substitution of education for qualifying experience at the GG-13 grade level
Required documents
- Resume (two-page maximum requirement)
- Complete initial Eligibility Questionnaire / Assessment Questionnaire
- Transcripts (if substituting education for specialized experience)
- SF-50 (current and former federal employees reflecting highest grade held on a permanent basis for at least 52 weeks)
- Veterans Preference Documentation (DD-214 Member Copy 4, statement of service, and/or VA letter dated 1991 or later, if applicable)
- Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible checklists and supporting documents, if applicable
- Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians PPP Eligible checklists, if applicable
When to apply
- Applications open on September 1, 2026
- Application closing deadline is September 8, 2026, at 11:59 pm Eastern Time
How to apply
- Click 'Apply Online' on USAJOBS to create an account or log in to an existing account
- Follow the prompts to complete the assessment questionnaire
- Upload all required supporting documents including your two-page resume
- Click the 'Submit My Answers' button to finalize your application
- Check application status by logging into your USAJOBS account
Additional information
- Position is designated as 'Mission Essential' requiring reporting to work or relocation during emergencies and participation in 24x7x365 shift work
- Requires pre-employment and periodic counter-intelligence polygraph exams as well as urinalysis drug testing
- A three-year trial period may be required if not previously completed
- This position is covered under DoD Manual 8140 and subject to future Cyber Workforce requirements
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Possesses at least one year of specialized qualifying experience at the GG-13 level managing Linux and Windows environments.
- Demonstrated expertise in implementing and enforcing cybersecurity policies and remediating system vulnerabilities.
- Willingness to participate in shift work to maintain 24/7/365 operational readiness and report to work during emergencies.
What should you think carefully about?
- Requires passing pre-employment and periodic counter-intelligence polygraph exams as well as urinalysis drug testing.
- Position is designated as Mission Essential, requiring on-site reporting at Lackland AFB, Texas and possible shift work.
- Subject to a three-year trial period and coverage under DoD Manual 8140 with future Cyber Workforce requirements.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is well-suited for a dedicated cybersecurity professional looking to secure a stable, high-paying federal position within the Defense Information Systems Agency. It offers an opportunity to deepen technical expertise in enterprise-level defense-in-depth methodologies while contributing directly to national security infrastructure in a hands-on system administration capacity.
Our take
Experienced federal or private-sector IT cybersecurity specialists who meet the exact GG-13 equivalency requirements and are comfortable with shift work and security clearances should strongly consider applying. Candidates lacking direct Linux and Windows server administration experience or those unable to meet the strict testing requirements should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
