Strategic Plans & Policy Analyst – National Guard/DoD - Arlington, VA

Military Spouse Corporate Career Network • Arlington, VA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Vectrona is hiring a Strategic Plans & Policy Analyst to support National Guard strategic planning and policy analysis at the Herbert R. Temple Army National Guard Readiness Center in Arlington, Virginia, with some work at the Pentagon. The role helps the National Guard understand and anticipate changes in the strategic environment, translating complex defense guidance into implications, risks, and opportunities for National Guard leaders. The work supports alignment between National Guard priorities, plans, and policies and broader defense strategy, while helping the organization adapt to emerging missions and future national security challenges.

The position requires analysis of classified and unclassified strategic developments and support for senior-leader decision-making, including development of briefing materials for the Chief of the National Guard Bureau and other senior leaders. The posted salary range is $105,000–$110,000, and the stated start date is ASAP.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of experience in strategic policy analysis, defense planning, or intelligence analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to synthesize large volumes of complex documents into concise, actionable insights.
• Familiarity with major DoD strategy documents, including NDS, NMS, UCP, JSCP, and campaign planning frameworks.
• Excellent written communication skills, particularly in producing information papers and briefings.
• Experience with SIPR and NIPR research tools and maintaining classification control.
• Strong understanding of National Guard missions, structure, and integration with federal defense planning.
• Familiarity with policy tracking, stakeholder coordination, and risk identification in strategic environments.
• Ability to work independently in classified and unclassified environments.
• Active Top Secret clearance is required; candidates must be able to obtain TS clearance. A previously held Secret clearance will be considered.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in National Security Studies, Political Science, Public Policy, or a related field.
• Master’s degree in Strategic Studies or a related discipline is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth reviews of strategic documents, including the National Defense Strategy (NDS), National Military Strategy (NMS), Unified Command Plan (UCP), Joint Strategic Capabilities Plan (JSCP), and related planning guidance.
• Assess updates to Department of Defense and Joint Staff publications for potential impacts on National Guard roles and responsibilities.
• Track and monitor think tank, academic, and policy events relevant to the Guard’s strategic posture.
• Draft concise information papers and executive summaries describing policy changes, risks, and opportunities.
• Compare historical and emerging guidance to identify trends and shifts in strategic direction.
• Maintain awareness of classified and unclassified strategy developments and ensure proper dissemination.
• Support development of briefing materials for the Chief of the National Guard Bureau and senior leadership based on strategic document findings.
• Participate in working groups or strategic planning events as needed and provide analytic input.

What This Job Offers

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