Sr. Strategic Planner and Policy Lead - Arlington, VA

Military Spouse Corporate Career Network • Arlington, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Sr. Strategic Planner and Policy Lead supports the National Guard Bureau J5 J Plans Division at the intersection of national strategy, joint planning, risk assessment, and senior leader decision-making. The role helps ensure National Guard priorities and capabilities are represented in broader defense planning and reflected in campaign plans, strategic assessments, contingency plans, and policy recommendations. It involves interpreting strategic guidance, identifying implications for the National Guard, evaluating risk, challenging assumptions, and turning analysis into recommendations for senior leaders. The position also supports integration of National Guard equities into joint and Department of Defense planning and decisions affecting current operations, future missions, readiness, and national defense priorities.

The role is based on-site in Arlington, Virginia, and requires CONUS travel as needed. The stated salary range is $115,000 to $130,000. The position requires an active U.S. Secret clearance; the posting also states that an active Top Secret clearance will be required and candidates must be able to obtain one. Previously held Secret clearances will be considered, and TS/SCI is preferred.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Strategic Studies, Political Science, International Relations, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of experience in joint planning, policy development, or strategic analysis in a Department of Defense environment.
• Active U.S. Secret clearance; candidates must be able to obtain a Top Secret clearance. Previously held Secret clearances will be considered.
• Expert knowledge of JSPS, JSCP, GEF, and NMS planning frameworks.
• Familiarity with National Guard missions, structure, and intergovernmental coordination dynamics.
• Strong written communication and executive-level briefing skills.
• Ability to synthesize complex policy issues and translate them into actionable recommendations.

Nice To Haves

• Top Secret/Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) clearance is preferred.
• JPME I or II, SAMS, or equivalent joint planning certification.
• Prior experience supporting the National Guard, Joint Staff, or CCMD planners.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of National Guard Bureau planning inputs into the Joint Strategic Planning System (JSPS) and Chairman’s Risk Assessment.
• Support integration of National Guard equities into Department of Defense campaign plans, functional plans, and strategic documents.
• Draft and coordinate CNGB planning guidance, strategic assessments, and policy position papers.
• Conduct research and provide strategic analysis on homeland defense, warfighting, and interagency coordination issues.
• Represent J5-J in working groups, planning conferences, and engagements with OSD, Joint Staff, CCMDs, and state entities.
• Develop MODA-based decision support tools and visualizations for leadership review.
• Mentor junior analysts and contribute to internal knowledge management.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior