Strategic Planner – Joint Planning & Policy Support

Ascendancy Group LTD 348973•Tampa, FL

57d

About The Position

The Ascendancy Group is seeking a skilled Strategic Planner to support USCENTCOM’s high-priority planning efforts across joint, interagency, and multinational domains. This role requires deep familiarity with Joint Publication 5-0, operational planning processes, and strategic analysis of both kinetic and non-kinetic options. You’ll work directly with planning teams, senior leaders, and partner organizations to shape operations in the CENTCOM Area of Responsibility (AOR). Security Requirement: A Top-Secret/SCI Clearance is required This position is contingent upon contract award

Requirements

Minimum 3 years of planning experience with comprehensive knowledge of Joint Publication 5-0
Experience at a Geographic or Functional Combatant Command HQ or Service Component HQ supporting a Geographic Combatant Command
Proficiency in developing joint, interagency, and multinational activities aligned with strategic objectives
Experience analyzing kinetic, non-kinetic, lethal, and non-lethal options against state and non-state adversaries
Strong research and qualitative analysis skills
Excellent communication and briefing abilities

Nice To Haves

Graduate of JAWS, SAMS, SAASS, SAW, MAWS, or Senior Service College equivalent
Experience with command-and-control information systems (e.g., C2IE, MAVEN)
Familiarity with USCENTCOM’s mission and operational environment
Understanding of FOIA/MDR legal frameworks and information security protocols

Responsibilities

Execute all phases of the Joint Operational Planning Process (JOPP), including:
Mission Analysis
COA Development
COA-Analysis (Wargaming)
COA Comparison and Decision
Develop plans and orders based on COA decisions, commander’s intent, and strategic guidance.
Ensure smooth transition from planning to execution by providing situational awareness and rationale for key decisions.
Support USCENTCOM planning efforts involving joint, interagency, and multinational partners, including Component Commands, the Joint Staff, OSD, federal agencies, allies, and coalition members.
Coordinate across Directorates, staffs, and regional partners to support operations and planning activities.
Learn and apply program-of-record systems such as C2IE, MAVEN, or other platforms to capture, display, and manipulate operational data.
Provide analysis, estimates, recommendations, and briefings to support the development of strategic plans and orders.
Offer technical recommendations on JOPP, joint planning systems, exercise/training planning, and joint doctrine.
Manage and coordinate FOIA and Mandatory Declassification Review (MDR) requests in accordance with legal standards and USCENTCOM directives. Conduct thorough file searches and advise CCJ5 on safeguarding and dissemination of sensitive information.