Range Support Planning And Operations Specialist

Air Force Special Operations Command • Cannon AFB, NM

4d

About The Position

The Range Support Planning and Operations Specialist plans, implements, and oversees Opposing Force (OPFOR) and range support operations for aircrew training, including controlling landing and drop zones to support flying unit requirements. The position is also known as a Special Operations Assault Zone Specialist.

The specialist plans, organizes, and directs OPFOR activities; ensures range support sections comply with legal and regulatory requirements and meet customer needs; executes Range Support program planning, operations, and related training requirements; and serves as a technical advisor for range support mission taskings. The role requires knowledge of military range operations, safety, training development, aircraft landing and drop zone control, tactical equipment, and applicable Joint, Air Force, and USSOCOM missions and directives.

This is a mission-essential, mission-critical position. It requires a Secret security clearance, participation in the Nuclear Weapons Personnel Reliability Program, drug testing, firearms access and qualifications, explosive transport qualification, and operation of government and specialty vehicles. Occasional travel, work outside normal duty hours, shift work, overtime, or irregular hours may be required.

Requirements

• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Must possess a current and valid state driver's license and obtain and maintain a valid government driver's license for OPFOR specialty vehicles.
• Must complete the Department of Defense small arms course and maintain annual currency for applicable firearms, including M-9/M-18 handgun and M-4 rifle.
• Must be certified under the Nuclear Weapons Personnel Reliability Program in accordance with DoD Regulation 5210.42.
• Must obtain and maintain a valid AF Form 483 Certificate of Competency for Explosive Transport Qualification.
• Must pass initial and periodic short-notice drug testing.
• Must sign DD Form 2760, Qualification to Possess Firearms or Ammunition; individuals convicted of qualifying domestic violence offenses may not occupy the position.
• Must maintain proficiency and knowledge of DAFMAN 13-217 requirements specific to landing zone and drop zone control duties.
• Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent, including knowledge of OPFOR/OSR training, contingency operations, financial planning, military installation readiness responsibilities, special operations programs, OPFOR training roles, analytical methods, IST mission procedures, specialized training equipment, installation and MAJCOM missions, and Joint and Air Force doctrine for irregular warfare; OR meet the stated qualifying graduate education alternative.
• Merit-promotion applicants must meet applicable federal time-in-grade requirements, including one year at GS-09 for GS-11 consideration when applicable.
• Knowledge of military range operations, safety protocols, and training program development.
• Knowledge of planning and executing OPFOR scenarios and combat training exercises in accordance with Joint, Air Force, and USSOCOM missions and directives.
• Knowledge and certification for controlling aircraft landing and drop zones under governing directives.
• Skill in operating and maintaining tactical vehicles, boats, communication equipment, and weapon systems.
• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental requirements, as well as maritime, tactical air traffic control, and opposing forces equipment storage, maintenance, and training requirements.
• Ability to analyze logistical requirements and apply quantitative and qualitative techniques to evaluate training effectiveness.
• Ability to develop and deliver technical instruction and tactical field training, and to communicate effectively orally and in writing.
• Knowledge and skill in applying standard and non-standard weapons systems, threat equipment, simulation rounds and devices, and in handling, securing, transporting, repairing, and cleaning weapon systems.
• Knowledge and skill in engaging aircraft with radio frequency, ultraviolet light, and infrared radiation systems, including understanding their effects on aircraft and onboard systems.

Responsibilities

• Plan, organize, and direct Opposing Force (OPFOR) activities.
• Ensure range support sections comply with legal and regulatory requirements and meet customer needs.
• Plan, implement, and oversee OPFOR and range support operations for aircrew training.
• Control landing and drop zones to support flying unit requirements.
• Execute Range Support program planning, operations, and related training requirements.
• Serve as technical advisor for range support mission taskings.
• Plan, manage, and execute realistic OPFOR scenarios for combat training exercises in accordance with mission requirements and available resources.
• Analyze logistical requirements and coordinate supplies, equipment, and personnel to support training missions.
• Develop and deliver technical training and tactical field training to personnel.
• Operate and maintain tactical vehicles, boats, communication equipment, weapon systems, and related training equipment.
• Maintain proficiency in DAFMAN 13-217 requirements applicable to landing zone and drop zone control duties.
• Meet required firearms, security, drug-testing, nuclear personnel reliability, and explosive transport qualifications.

Benefits

• Federal employees receive a comprehensive benefits package; employees and their families have access to a range of federal benefits. Specific eligibility depends on position type and other factors.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree