Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.

Major Duties

The primary purpose of this position: To serve as the NORAD J3 Vice Director of Operations and recognized command authority and senior advisor to the Commander, NORAD (CDRNORAD) and the NORAD Director of Operations (N/J3) on air defense and air sovereignty policy, strategy, and bi-national mission execution for the defense of North America. The employee develops, negotiates, and provides authoritative recommendations on bi-national and interagency policy, leads Operation NOBLE EAGLE (ONE) and Long-Range Aviation (LRA) training and certification for senior Engagement and Recommending Authorities, and represents the Command in high-level engagements with U.S. and Canadian military, civilian, and Congressional decision makers. The position further assists the Director in the managerial planning and oversight of directorate activities and exercises supervisory responsibilities over assigned staff. Duties Serves as the recognized command authority and senior advisor on air defense and air sovereignty policy and strategy for the defense of North America. Serves as command subject matter expert for Operation NOBLE EAGLE (ONE) and Long-Range Aviation (LRA) mission training, certification, and execution. Develops and sustains bi-national and interagency relationships and represents the Command at the most senior national and international levels. Assists the Director in the planning, organization, and managerial oversight of NORAD J3 directorate activities. Exercises supervisory personnel management responsibilities over assigned staff.

Qualifications

Conditions of Employment: (cont'd) This position has been designated as Special Sensitive. The employee is required to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance as a condition of employment. Access to Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI), other intelligence-related Special Sensitive information, and involvement in Top Secret Special Access Programs (SAP) is required to fully perform the duties and responsibilities of the position. A non-disclosure agreement must be signed This position is designated by the Air Force as a Test Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Drug Testing Program. As a mandatory requirement for employment in this TDP, the incumbent is (A) to refrain from use of illegal drugs and (B) if required, to submit to urinalysis testing. Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive position presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety. The selectee must sign a statement acknowledging the position occupied is identified as a TDP. Required to perform Battle Roster functions during Exercises, Real-World events, or on an as needed basis to support mission requirements. Battle Roster functions may include but are not limited to the Joint Operations Center (JOC), Future Operations Center (FOC), Future Plans Center (FPC), Joint Logistics Operations Center (JLOC), N&NC Deployment and Distribution Operations Center (NDDOC), Joint Intelligence Operations Center-North (JIOC-N), Joint Cyber Center (JCC), and other tasks as assigned. These functions require additional duty hours and/or a physical/medical assessment to deploy to alternate duty locations (non-combat) or in-place. This is a KEY position IAW 32 CFR, Part 44 Appendix A and DoD Directive 1200.7. A Key Position is a Federal position that cannot be vacated during a war, national emergency, or mobilization without seriously impairing the capability of the parent Federal Agency to function effectively. Applicants for positions designated as "Key" positions who do not agree to this condition shall not be extended an offer of employment. The employee must be removed from the Ready Reserve and CANNOT become a member of the Ready Reserve while assigned to this position. IAW DoDI 3020-42 this position has been locally, or command designated as Mission Essential (ME). ME personnel perform a Mission Critical Function (MCF), which must continue uninterrupted after the occurrence of an emergency or during hazardous weather conditions to keep critical operations functioning. These personnel are required to report for duty at normal times when the base is closed or if delayed reporting is directed and remain on duty during phased or early release. The employee may be required to work overtime or be 'on call' outside normal duty hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. During exercises, crises, or contingencies, the position is subject to short- or no-notice recall to duty and may require shift work, extended hours, or support for 24-hour operations as directed. YA002 = Eligible for situational telework only, including Ad hoc, Emergency, or OPM prescribed "Unscheduled" Telework. This eligibility is separate and distinct from the employee's eligibility. A civilian employee's telework arrangement may be terminated at the discretion of the supervisor or at the employee's request. In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Administrative and Management Positions, Miscellaneous Administration and Program Series 0301. SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-14, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes expert knowledge of NORAD air defense operations, ONE, LRA, aerospace control, aerospace waring, and maritime warning missions and associated advisories, sufficient to serve as the recognized command authority and to develop, negotiate, and authoritatively recommend bi-national policy, strategy, and concepts of operation for the defense of North America; Expert knowledge of EA and CRA processes and procedures, to include ONE Execution Orders, Rules of Engagement, the ONE "Gold Script," Special Instructions, Joint Air Defense Operations Center operations, and Vol VI conferencing procedures, sufficient to train, certify, and advise the Commander and the highest-level engagement decision authorities and to make critical characterization judgments in time-sensitive, high-consequence situations; Knowledge of joint and combined U.S. and Canadian staff and air staff processes at the NAF level and above, and of interagency and operational planning processes, doctrine, national intelligence organizations, and pertinent interagency organizations such as DHS, DIA, NCTC, and DOT, sufficient to coordinate bi-national and interagency operations and ensure national unity of effort. FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-14 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-15 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas: 1. Knowledge of NORAD air defense operations, Operation NOBLE EAGLE, Long-Range Aviation, aerospace control aerospace warning, and maritime warning missions and associated advisories. 2. Expert knowledge of doctrine and policy, joint C4 planning, and the development, execution, and evaluation of operations as it pertains to air defense and air sovereignty. 3. Skill in interpreting, analyzing, and applying national guidance to ensure an organization's initiatives and work products are consistent with national strategy. Skill in acting independently at the executive level and in a representational role to make critical and objective characterization judgments and formulate recommendations of major national and international impact in high-stress, time-sensitive situations. 4. Ability to develop and review command task packages, author command-level guidance and instructions, and answer Congressional, OSW, DND, and Joint Staff inquiries related to air sovereignty and aerospace defense issues. Skill in oral and written communication sufficient to clearly and concisely transmit complex recommendations to the highest national, international, and military department authorities. 5. Knowledge of joint and combined U.S. and Canadian staff and air staff processes at the Numbered Air Force level and above, and of interagency and operational planning processes and doctrine, national intelligence organizations, and pertinent interagency organizations such as DHS, DIA, NCTC, and DOT. 6. Ability to plan, organize, and direct the functions of one or more organizational units and to mentor, motivate, and develop staff through subordinate supervisors within available resources, authorities, and guidance. PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

Promotion Potential

GS-None

How You Will Be Evaluated

Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment. BASIS OF RATING: Your application will be rated under the Cut Point procedures based on the extent to which the quality, depth, and complexity of your experience and education relate to the qualification requirements. Additional points are not added for Veteran's Preference; however, Veteran's Preference is considered where applicable. Best Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess exceptional skills and experience to exceed well above the minimum requirements. Fully Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess good skills and experience above the minimum requirements. Basically Qualified Group: Candidates in this category meet the minimum education and/or experience requirements. The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job. Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further. APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.

Benefits

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Who Can Apply

Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)
Family of overseas employees
Current federal employees — competitive service
Current federal employees — excepted service
Individuals with disabilities
Land management
Military spouses
Peace Corps & AmeriCorps VISTA
Veterans

Required Documents

The following documents are required and must be provided with your application. Applicants who do not submit required documentation to determine eligibility and qualifications will be eliminated from consideration. Other documents may be required based on the eligibility/eligibilities you are claiming. Click here to view the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide and the required documents you must submit to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming. Online Application: Questionnaire Resume: Your resume may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. You will not be considered for this vacancy if your resume is illegible/unreadable. Additional information on resume requirements can be located under "How To Apply". Transcripts/Registration/License: If qualifying on education/position requires education, you must submit copies of your transcripts and if required for the position, submit an active, current registration/license. Veterans: If claiming VEOA, VRA or 30% Disabled Veteran - Submit VOW certification memo or copy of the official DD-Form 214, which must include the character of service (i.e., with an honorable or general discharge). This will be annotated in block 24 on member copy 2, 4, or 7 of the DD-Form 214. If claiming 30% Disabled Veteran, you must also submit a VA Letter or a disability determination from a branch of the Armed Forces. NOTE: All veterans claiming 10-point preference must also submit a SF-15. Current or Former Federal Civilian Employees (includes current Air Force employees): You must submit a legible copy of your most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, AND a SF-50 reflecting the highest grade held if different from your recent SF-50. The SF-50, block 24 must contain "1" or "2" AND block 34 must be a "1". Employees eligible under an OPM approved interchange agreement, block 34 may contain a "1" or "2". Promotion Consideration: If you wish to be considered as a promotion candidate and your SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you meet the one-year time-in-grade requirements. You will need to provide additional SF-50s which clearly demonstrates you meet the time-in-grade requirements (examples of appropriate SF-50s include Promotions, Within-Grade, Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s with an effective date more than one year old). ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS: The VOW Act requires federal agencies to treat an eligible active duty service member as a veteran, disabled veteran, and preference eligible (as applicable) when applying for civil service positions before the effective release or discharge date. Appointment of military members before the release or discharge date is permissible if the member is on terminal leave. At the time the active duty member applies for a civil position, he or she must submit a "certification" memo in lieu of a DD-Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Active duty members applying for a civil service position without submitting a valid certification memo or DD-Form 214 with their application will render the member ineligible for the position. The certification memo must originate from the member's military service branch on official letterhead and contain the following: Name/Rank/Grade of Service Member Branch of Armed Forces Dates of Active Service (Start and End Date(s) Expected Date of Discharge/Release from Active Duty Terminal leave start date (if applicable) Expected character of service (honorable or general) and type of separation (i.e. separation or retirement) Must be certified within 120 days of anticipated discharge Signature by, or by direction of the adjutant, personnel office, unit commander, or higher headquarters commander. Note: The VOW Act provides tentative preference. If appointed, a DD Form-214 must be submitted upon receipt. OPTIONAL DOCUMENTS: Performance Appraisals for Current Federal Civilian Employees - Most recent performance appraisals (dated within last 3 years) showing the official rating of record, signed by a supervisor, or statement why the performance appraisal is unavailable. Awards for Current Federal Civilian employees - List any awards received within the last 3 years on the resume. Note: Applicant must not submit award Notification of Personnel Actions (SF50s).

How to Apply

The complete Application Package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 07/30/2026 To preview the Application Questionnaire, please click the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13020510 To begin the process, click the Apply Online button to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account. Follow the prompts to complete the application questionnaire. Please ensure you click the Submit My Application button at the end of the process. To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: 1. Your Resume. If you submit more than one resume, only the most recent will be reviewed. The "most recent" is considered the resume with the latest timestamp. Resumes may not exceed two pages. The two-page resume ensures the most relevant experience is reviewed and considered, which is a common practice in both the public and private sectors. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Additional information on how to complete or update your resume may be located here. For qualification determination your resume must contain hours worked per week and dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as insufficient, and you will not receive consideration for this position. If you are a current Federal employee or previous Federal employee, provide your pay plan, series and grade, i.e. GS-0301-09. Current Federal Civilian Employees may list any relevant performance related rating (given within the last three years) and/or incentive awards in your resume. Do NOT include photographs, inappropriate material, inappropriate content, nor personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume. If the resume you submit contains such information you will not be considered for this vacancy. Your name, first and last, MUST be included on your resume. 2. A complete Application Questionnaire 3. Additional Required Documents (see Required Documents section). Ensure all submitted documents contain your full name. 4. Help recruiters find you. Make your resume and profile searchable, which means recruiters may contact you about possible jobs. Additional information may be located here. PLEASE NOTE: It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information entered and/or uploaded, (i.e., resume) is received, accurate, and submitted by the closing date. You may verify your documents have been processed with your application package successfully. You can access your USAJOBS account to do so by clicking here. Uploaded documents may take up to one hour to clear the virus scan. Human Resources WILL NOT modify or change any answers submitted by an applicant.

What to Expect Next

Once your application package is received an acknowledgement email will be sent. If you provided an email address, you will receive an email message acknowledging receipt of your application. Your application package will be used to determine your eligibility and qualifications for consideration. If you are determined to be ineligible or not qualified, your application will receive no further consideration. To check the status of your application or return to a previous or incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account, select My Applications, and click on the more information link under the application status for this position. If you do not provide an email address, you are responsible for checking status updates and notifications in USAJOBS. Hard copy notifications will not be sent to you.

Other Information

VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location. Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information. 120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur. Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected, and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist. Priority Placement Program (PPP) Applicant Eligible: PPP Applicants, if determined well qualified and selected, will be placed at the at the full performance level. You must include the applicable completed copy of the PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility as a PPP Applicant. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist (DD3145-1 through DD3145-4, select the appropriate checklist for your claimed preference). To determine the applicable PPP Self-Certification Checklist required to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming, refer to the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide located in the Required Documents section of this vacancy announcement. Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit. Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here. If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.

About the Agency

US Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) Mission Statement: Conduct operations to deter, prevent, and defeat threats and aggression aimed at the United States, its territories, and interests within the assigned area of responsibility; and as directed by the President or Secretary of Defense, provide defense support of civil authorities including consequence management operations. Find out more click here. Click here to view the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide: 30 Percent or More Disabled Veterans AF DCIPS Interchange AF Internal Employee DoD Transfer (Excluding Air Force) EO 12721 Certain Former Overseas Employees EO 13473 Appointment of Certain Military Spouses Former Federal Employees (Reinstatement) Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan Land Management Employee Military Spouse Preference National Service (Peace Corps and VISTA) Non-AF DCIPS Interchange Non-Appropriated Fund Non-DoD Transfer Other (Interchange Agreements) People with Disabilities, Schedule A PPP DoD Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians PPP DoD Retained Grade Preference Eligible PPP Mil Res (MR) and Nat Guard (NG) Pref Eligible Technician Receiving Disability Retirement Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction Veterans Employment Opportunities Act

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