Deputy Director, Joint Sensitive Space Staff

Deputy Director, Joint Sensitive Space StaffThe United States Space Force (USSF) Space Force Command (SPC) Chantilly, VA is searching for a Deputy Director, Joint Sensitive Space Staff for the Space Warfighting Analysis Center (NH-0343-04, GS 14/15 equivalent). Are you ready to shape the future of national security in the space domain? As the Deputy Director, Joint Sensitive Space Staff, you will serve as a recognized subject matter expert and strategic leader at the forefront of the United States Space Force's (USSF) Space Warfighting Analysis Center (SWAC). In this high-impact, NH-04 level role based in Chantilly, VA, you will partner directly with the Director to lead the strategic planning, execution, and protection of our nation's most sensitive space portfolios. You are someone who thrives on solving complex, multi-dimensional problems, excels at guiding multidisciplinary teams, and is passionate about establishing program protection policies that defend critical space assets from emerging global threats. If you are a visionary leader who wants to bridge the gap between advanced technology, acquisition strategy, and national security policy, this is the mission you've been waiting for! On a daily basis, you will drive the strategic vision of the JS3 staff by translating high-level national security objectives into actionable space operations policies and program requirements. You will oversee program performance, manage risks, and advise senior leadership on resource allocation and budget decisions. Your day will involve collaborating closely with internal Space Force elements, the Department of Defense, and external intelligence partners to ensure robust, end-to-end program protection and cybersecurity. Whether you are conducting risk assessments, implementing advanced data analytics to optimize program performance, crafting persuasive briefings for high-level decisionmakers, or mentoring the next generation of space defense leaders, your work will directly safeguard U.S. and allied interests in the space domain.Ideal Candidate: The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with a deep technical and strategic background in national security and space operations. You must possess:Professional Experience & Background: Space Systems & Program Protection: Mastery of professional security concepts, principles, and policy execution, with expert knowledge of systems engineering practices and program protection methodologies specifically pertaining to space systems. Program Management & Acquisition: Comprehensive knowledge of defense planning, program management, and standard defense acquisition regulations, practices, and engineering disciplines (supporting sustainment, modification, and maintenance). Leadership & Mentorship: Demonstrated experience leading, guiding, and mentoring multidisciplinary teams of scientists, engineers, and analysts in high-stakes environments. Core Competencies: Data-Driven Decision Making: Ability to leverage advanced data analytics, identify trends or anomalies, and use data visualization/storytelling to drive policy and resource decisions. Expert Collaboration: Exceptional communication skills (oral and written) with the ability to represent the directorate in high-level DoD, USSF, and intelligence community forums, building strong inter-agency partnerships Key Skills and Abilities : Mastery of a wide range of professional security concepts, principles, practices, standards, methods, and policy to project development, execution, and advisory services. Expert knowledge of systems engineering practices and procedures as they pertain to space systems and program protection principles, concepts and policies to oversee significant projects. Comprehensive knowledge of the principles of planning/program management; of standard acquisition regulations, practices, and procedures; and of engineering disciplines used in support of sustainment, modification, and maintenance programs. 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