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COMPUTER ENGINEER

Department of the Air Force
Air Force Elements, U.S. Strategic Command
AFELM HQ STRATCOM
This job announcement has closed

Summary

Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.

The primary purpose of this position is to serve in a developmental system engineering position with known promotion potential to the target position of GS-13. All training must be completed and regulatory requirements met prior to promotion to the full performance level of GS-13.

Overview

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Job canceled
Open & closing dates
05/12/2021 to 05/25/2021
Salary
$49,157 to - $134,798 per year
Pay scale & grade
GS 7 - 13
Location
Fort Meade, MD
FEW vacancies
Telework eligible
Yes—as determined by the agency policy.
Travel Required
Occasional travel - Work may occasionally require travel away from the normal duty station on a military or commercial aircraft.
Relocation expenses reimbursed
No
Appointment type
Permanent
Work schedule
Full-time
Service
Competitive
Promotion potential
13
Supervisory status
No
Security clearance
Top Secret
Drug test
Yes
Announcement number
8F-AFPC-11116311-252218-RLS
Control number
601340000

Duties

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  • Performs professional systems engineering work involved in the application of advanced theories, concepts, principles, and processes to the acquisition, development, or sustainment of NC3 systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment.
  • Functions as the SE and I Divisions technical specialist in developing system performance requirements, objectives and integration, and the estimation of time and resources for system design, development, and support.
  • Performs complex and comprehensive analysis and uses systematic, disciplined, and quantifiable approaches to implement, develop, and document engineering projects.
  • Serves as a consultant and technical expert to senior subject matter specialists and/or agency officials responsible for broad program operations.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

  • U.S. Citizenship Required
  • Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov.
  • Incumbent must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret (Special Sensitive) SCI security clearance
  • This is a drug Test Designated Position (TDP). Incumbent is subject to pre-employment and random testing for drug use
  • This posn is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
  • The employee may be required to work other than normal duty hours, which may include evenings, weekends, and/or holidays
  • The work may require the incumbent to be subject to recall during non-duty hours, weekends, and holidays; overtime and/or emergency overtime may be required
  • Information Assurance Certification is a condition of employment. This position includes information assurance (IA) work as a paramount duty requirement
  • Per DoD 8570.01-M, the incumbent of this position must achieve the appropriate IA Certification within six months of assignment of these duties
  • A waiver of this six month requirement may be granted per DoD 8570.0-M, C3.2.4.2 or C3.2.4.3. Failure to receive the proper IA certification may result in removal from this position
  • Disclosure of Political Appointments

Qualifications

In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Professional and Scientific Positions.

BASIC REQUIREMENT OR INDIVIDUAL OCCUPATIONAL REQUIREMENT:

GS-0854/0855-07/09/11/12/13: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/0800/files/all-professional-engineering-positions-0800.pdf

GS-1550-07/09/11/12/13: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/computer-science-series-1550/

GS-1515-07/09/11/12/13: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/1500/operations-research-series-1515/

In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE (GS-07/GS-09): Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-05 for GS-07 or GS-07 for GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes knowledge of the principles, concepts, and theories of computer engineering, and the standard practices, methods, and techniques of the occupation sufficient to perform difficult, but well-precedented assignments; knowledge of analysis, evaluation, fact-finding, and investigative techniques in order to gather data, identify significant factors, and recommend a solution from a number of possible alternatives; knowledge of the occupation to perform studies and prepare reports, documentation, and correspondence to communicate factual and procedural information clearly.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE (GS-11/GS-12): Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09 for GS-11 or GS-11 for GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes knowledge of a wide range of principles, concepts, and practices of electronic engineering sufficient to perform difficult and complex work assignments; knowledge of quantitative and qualitative analysis and investigative techniques in order to synthesize data, evaluate significant factors, and recommend ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of work operations; knowledge of major issues, program goals and objectives, work processes, and administrative operations of the organization and occupation sufficient to plan, schedule, and conduct analyses and occupational projects; knowledge of pertinent laws, regulations, policies, and precedents which affect the use of program and related support resources.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE (GS-13): Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-12, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience includes knowledge of a wide range of communications concepts, principles, and practices to accomplish work processes through the use of telecommunications devices, methods, services and facilities; knowledge of advanced engineering concepts, principles, practices, methods, and techniques to provide expert judgment concerning programs/operations; resolve unique or novel problems, conditions, or issues; and significantly alter standard practices, processes, and known techniques; knowledge of systems engineering practices and procedures as they pertain to sustainment, modification, logistics, and production management principles, concepts, policies, and systems to execute significant projects which represent an important segment of the agency's operating program.

FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-­grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-05/07/09/11/12 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS- level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:

GS-07:
1. Knowledge of basic principles, concepts, and practices of computer engineering.
2. Skill in applying basic principles, concepts, and practices of the occupation sufficient to perform entry-level assignments in computer engineering).
3. Skill in communicating factual and procedural information clearly, orally and in writing.
4. Ability to analyze problems to identify significant factors, gather pertinent data, and recognize solutions.
5. Ability to plan and organize work, and consult effectively with co-workers.

GS-09:
1. Knowledge of the principles, concepts, and theories of computer engineering, and the standard practices, methods, and techniques of the occupation sufficient to perform difficult, but well-precedented assignments.
2. Knowledge of analysis, evaluation, fact-finding, and investigative techniques in order to gather data, identify significant factors, and recommend a solution from a number of possible alternatives.
3. Knowledge of the occupation to perform studies and prepare reports, documentation, and correspondence to communicate factual and procedural information clearly.
4. Skill in applying the principles, concepts, and practices of the occupation sufficient to perform moderately difficult assignments.
5. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy, both orally and in writing, as well as work in a professional manner with peers and management.
6. Ability to learn and apply analytical investigative techniques to accomplish work in the subject-matter field.

GS-11/GS-12:
1. Knowledge of a wide range of principles, concepts, and theories of computer engineering and the practices, methods, and techniques of the occupation sufficient to perform difficult and complex assignments.
2. Knowledge of analysis, evaluation, and investigative techniques in order to synthesize data, evaluate significant factors, and recommend ways to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of work operations.
3. Knowledge of major issues, program goals and objectives, work processes, and administrative operations of the organization and occupation sufficient to plan, schedule, and conduct analyses and occupational projects.
4. Skill in applying the principles, concepts, and practices of the occupation to new methods, approaches, and/or procedures.
5. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy, both orally and in writing, as well as work in a professional manner with peers and management.
6. Ability to learn and apply analytical and evaluative methods and techniques to accomplish complex work in the subject-matter field.

Education

QUALIFICATIONS CONTINUED:

GS-13:

1. Knowledge of engineering concepts, principles, practices, standards, methods, and techniques to effectively apply advanced engineering theories, principles and concepts to project development, execution, and advisory services.
2. Knowledge of development testing and evaluation sufficient to apply experimental theories and new applications to issues and provide technical advice and direction in support of telecommunication systems, subsystems, and/or support equipment.
3. Knowledge of systems engineering practices and procedures as they pertain to sustainment, modification, logistics, and production management principles, concepts, policies, and systems; of standard acquisition regulations, practices, and procedures; and of other engineering disciplines.
4. Skill in applying an advanced analytical techniques such as; mathematical modeling, systems and statistical analysis to analyze and evaluate technical solutions and technologies.
5. Ability to devise and evaluate criteria, parameters, characteristics, and interrelationships for design approaches, and to assess the impact of new technology on current systems and processes.
6. Ability to research patterns to develop new methods, criteria, or proposed new telecommunications policies and procedures.
7. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and with technical accuracy, both orally and in writing, as well as work in a professional manner with peers, management, contractors, academia, and other agencies.

PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.

VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcriptswith the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.

FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.

Additional information

Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP): For information on how to apply as an ICTAP eligible click here. To be well-qualified and exercise selection priority for this vacancy, displaced Federal employees must be rated well qualified or above for this position. You must submit a copy of the agency notice, your most recent performance rating, and your most recent SF-50 noting position, grade level, and duty location.

Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.

120-Day Register: This announcement may result in a 120-day register that may be used to fill like vacancies for 120 days after the closing date. Applicants may be referred for consideration as vacancies occur.

Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected at the full performance level and placed at the full performance level. You must include a completed copy of the Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.

Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.

If you are unable to apply online, view the following link for information regarding Alternate Application. The Vacancy ID is 11116311

If you have questions regarding this announcement and have hearing or speech difficulties click here.

Tax Law Impact for PCS: On 22-Dec-2017, Public Law 115-97 - the "Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017" suspended qualified moving expense deductions along with the exclusion for employer reimbursements and payments of moving expenses effective 01-Jan-2018 for tax years 2018 through 2025. The law made taxable certain reimbursements and other payments, including driving mileage, airfare and lodging expenses, en-route travel to the new duty station, and temporary storage of those items. The Federal Travel Regulation Bulletin (FTR) 18-05 issued by General Services Administration (GSA) has authorized agencies to use the Withholding Tax Allowance (WTA) and Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA) to pay for "substantially all" of the increased tax liability resulting from the "2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act" for certain eligible individuals. For additional information on WTA/RITA allowances and eligibilities please click here. Subsequently, FTR Bulletin 20-04 issued by GSA, provides further information regarding NDAA FY2020, Public Law 116-92, and the expansion of eligibility beyond "transferred" for WTA/RITA allowances. For additional information, please click here.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.

BASIS OF RATING: Your application will be rated under the Cut Point procedures based on the extent to which the quality, depth, and complexity of your education and/or experience related to the qualification requirements. Additional points are not added for Veteran's Preference; however, Veteran's Preference is considered where applicable.

Best Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess exceptional skills and experience to exceed well above the minimum requirements.
Fully Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess good skills and experience above the minimum requirements.
Basically Qualified Group: Candidates in this category meet the minimum education and/or experience requirements.

The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job.

Applicants who meet the requirements for and apply as a non-competitive eligible that meet minimal qualifications and other requirements of this position, will be given consideration as a non-competitive candidate and will be referred unless blocked by an individual with priority/preference. Noncompetitive applicants do not need to respond to the assessment questions with the A through E responses indicating level of experience/training.

Applicants who disqualify themselves will not be evaluated further.

APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.

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