About the opportunity
The United States Space Force (USSF) Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Operations/Studies Group (S3Q) at The Pentagon is searching for a Technical Director (NH-0801-04, GS 14/15 equivalent). As the inaugural Technical Director, the position provides hands-on technical guidance to internal study teams while coordinating with technical directors, lead engineers, and subject-matter experts across USSF, DAF, and OSW organizations. The role spans tactical through strategic planning, requiring engagement with senior leaders. The incumbent conducts or directs activities on challenging program development, develops solutions to highly complex problems, and is responsible for fulfilling program objectives. The position involves 51% or more of time in direct support of acquisition positions.
Salary and benefits
- Salary range: $143,913 – $197,200 per annum
- Federal employee benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, and leave programs
- Disabled veteran leave available for eligible veterans with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more
Who can apply?
- Must meet individual occupational requirements for the 0801 series
- Must meet experience level requirements for professional and scientific positions
- Strong preference for a background in space operations
- Highly well-versed in the Department of War (DoW) Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE) process
- Preferred candidate will hold a master's degree
- Demonstrated technical proficiency with database tools, software applications, and planning/analysis programs
Required documents
- Resume (maximum two pages, minimum 10 pt font, no photographs or personal sensitive information)
- College Transcripts (if applicable)
When to apply
- Applications must be submitted by the closing date of 2026-09-08 at 23:59:59
How to apply
- Submit resume via the official USAJOBS portal link provided in the announcement
- Do not email applications
- Verify that all documents are processed and received via the USAJOBS account dashboard
- Allow up to one hour for uploaded documents to clear the virus scan
Additional information
- This is a Direct Hire opportunity
- Applicants in receipt of a federal civilian annuity are subject to DoD policy on the employment of annuitants
- Interviews may be conducted for qualifying candidates
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…
- Senior professionals with a background in space operations and the Department of War (DoW) PPBE process.
- Engineers or analysts with a master's degree and demonstrated proficiency in complex database and planning tools.
- Leaders comfortable providing hands-on technical guidance to study teams while engaging with senior Pentagon leadership.
What should you think carefully about?
- This is an on-site position at the Pentagon in Arlington, VA, requiring full-time physical presence.
- The role is highly specialized, requiring deep knowledge of acquisition and strategic planning within the USSF framework.
- Applicants must adhere to strict resume formatting requirements, including a two-page limit and specific font size.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This role is a significant opportunity for a seasoned technical expert to shape strategic planning at the highest levels of the U.S. Space Force. It offers a chance to influence program development and acquisition strategies while working in a high-stakes, mission-critical environment.
Our take
Experienced professionals with a deep understanding of space acquisition and strategic planning should apply; those without federal-level experience or the ability to work on-site in Arlington should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
