Arctic Operations Specialist

U.S. Pacific Fleet • San Diego, CA

5d

About The Position

The Arctic Operations Specialist (AOS) serves as the embarked technical Director for major submarine ice exercises (ICEX), directly supporting Arctic deployments by the submarine force. The position drafts submarine operational orders, prepares and presents briefings on the Submarine Arctic Warfare Program to senior military and civilian officials, and provides communications support for the assigned submarine operational authority (SUBOPAUTH), including broadcast coverage, message support, and loading specialized products. The specialist trains personnel in operating platform sensors and submarine systems and helps ensure safe operations and testing in Arctic and cold-water regions. The role also supervises Range Safety Officers (RSOs) operating the tracking range to ensure the safe conduct of submarine operations and testing.

The incumbent regularly deploys aboard submarines and may embark on any U.S. Navy vessel afloat for periods exceeding 24 hours. The position may involve travel to domestic and international locations, including remote or isolated sites, and requires the ability to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods. The incumbent must meet minimum physical standards for temporary duty aboard nuclear submarines and undergo required physical examinations.

This is a GS-13 federal position. Applicants must have at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-12 level. There is no education substitution for this series and grade combination. The position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret SCI security clearance, SCI eligibility, and a signed nondisclosure agreement; polygraph testing may apply. Pre-employment requirements include a physical examination and drug test, with random testing thereafter. The position may require an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as well as overtime or night differential work.

Requirements

• Must be a U.S. citizen and suitable for federal employment.
• Must participate in direct deposit and successfully complete applicable E-Verify requirements.
• Current federal employees applying for GS positions must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements by the announcement closing date.
• Must meet applicable Selective Service registration requirements.
• Must obtain and maintain an interim and/or final Top Secret SCI security clearance before entering on duty; SCI eligibility and a signed nondisclosure agreement are required, and polygraph testing may apply.
• Must successfully complete a pre-employment drug test and be subject to random testing.
• Must complete a pre-employment physical examination and meet minimum physical standards for temporary duty aboard nuclear submarines; regular and mandatory annual physical examinations are required.
• Must be able to travel on military and commercial aircraft for extended periods and travel to CONUS and OCONUS locations, including remote or isolated sites.
• Must meet the GS-13 qualification requirement of at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to GS-12.
• Specialized experience must include providing reliable information on submarine operations and advising a ship's Commanding Officer on under-ice navigation, ship handling, operational safety, environmental monitoring and data collection, and scientific or technical tests and experiments.
• Specialized experience must include knowledge of submarine ship handling, ship control systems, sonar, navigation, piloting, mooring, combat systems, communications, and ship characteristics.
• Specialized experience must include managing and technically directing varied projects, advising on those projects, and conducting submarine tests and evaluation of systems designed for fleet application.
• Specialized experience must include working with submarine systems and technology, underwater acoustics, sensor employment, submarine operating procedures, and environmental properties.
• Specialized experience must include performing supervisory duties.
• There is no education substitution for this series and grade combination.
• Must be able to work an uncommon tour, including nights, weekends, and holidays; overtime or night differential work may be required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the embarked Arctic Operations Specialist and technical Director for major submarine ice exercises in support of Arctic deployments.
• Draft submarine operational orders (OPORD).
• Prepare and present briefings on the Submarine Arctic Warfare Program to senior military and civilian officials.
• Provide communications support for the assigned submarine operational authority, including broadcast coverage, message support, and loading specialized products.
• Train personnel in the operation of platform sensors and submarine systems.
• Help ensure safe operation and testing in Arctic and cold-water regions.
• Supervise Range Safety Officers in operating the tracking range and ensuring safe submarine operations and testing.
• Embark regularly on submarines and other U.S. Navy vessels, including deployments away from shore for periods exceeding 24 hours.

Benefits

• Federal employee benefits package for employees and their families; specific eligibility depends on the type of position.
• A relocation incentive may be authorized for eligible selectees, subject to applicable policy and funding.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed