Telecommunications Specialist

Summary

120-day non-reimbursable assignment. The only compensation for this assignment is the federal salary you are already receiving.

DHS Office of the Chief Information Officer/CORE Directorate

Telecommunications Specialist

Series Requested: 0391

Security Clearance: Secret

Virtual/Remote: No

Only current, full-time federal employees are eligible.

Resumes are reviewed every 30 days until selection/closing date.

This is a Detail, not a Developmental Rotation.

Supervisory approval form must be signed.

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Duties

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The Wireless Services Spectrum Manager is responsible for managing DHS's enterprise spectrum management and wireless communications program.

The incumbent works closely with DHS components, federal agencies, and external partners to centrally coordinate DHS wireless communications, including commercially provided equipment, tactical and mobile communications, and systems supporting emergency response and disaster recovery.

The role ensures optimal planning, design, development, implementation, and maintenance of radio frequencies and wireless systems to meet DHS mission requirements.

Key responsibilities include facilitating collaboration among DHS components, federal agencies such as Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), and other stakeholders for spectrum management initiatives.

The incumbent builds and maintains relationships with internal and external stakeholders, headquarters components, and national/interagency committees to foster a collaborative environment.

The Spectrum Manager represents DHS on the Interdepartmental Radio Advisory Committee (IRAC), NTIA subcommittees, and working groups.

Technical leadership is provided in radio frequency assignments, interagency frequency coordination, interference resolution, and radio systems design from a spectrum planning perspective.

Responsibilities include initiating and preparing new certification packages for spectrum dependent systems, as well as modifying existing certifications to meet the expanding wireless requirements of DHS components.

Certification packages will be prepared in accordance with the Manual of Regulations for Federal Radio Frequency Management (Redbook) and submitted using the EL CID online (ECO) portal.

The incumbent may also deliver prompt assistance to DHS radio spectrum users in resolving wireless interference issues, including research, investigation, and solution formulation in coordination with FCC and NTIA.

This detail assignment offers an excellent opportunity to develop and enhance skills in spectrum management, achieve professional growth, build valuable relationships, and contribute to the success of DHS wireless communications and mission-critical operations.

Requirements

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Conditions of employment

• Must be a current permanent Federal employee
• Must have supervisory approval to apply to the Joint Duty Assignment. DHS 250-2 Application Form under "required documents" section.
• Must NOT have any pending/outstanding disciplinary actions
• Must have achieved a minimum of "meet expectations/proficiency" on latest performance appraisal/evaluation
• Must be currently at the grade level of the detail. *No Temporary Promotion Opportunity*
• The program does not apply to members of the Military service or contractors.

Qualifications

Qualifications required:

1. Specialized expertise in spectrum management and wireless communications, including radio frequency assignments, federal certification of spectrum dependent systems, interagency coordination, interference resolution, technical analysis, and periodic review of frequency assignments.
2. Excellent oral and written communication skills, with high attention to detail and clarity for diverse stakeholders.
3. Ability to work independently and manage daily operations with minimal supervision in a fast-paced environment.
4. Strong analytical, critical thinking, and innovative problem-solving skills; demonstrates initiative and accountability.
5. Effective collaboration and teamwork across departments and organizational lines; builds strong relationships.
6. Strategic and tactical thinking to execute enterprise-wide spectrum management initiatives.
7. Experience working across DHS components and federal agencies to achieve enterprise goals.
8. Technical knowledge of analog, digital, HF, VHF, UHF, infrared, microwave, wireless data, and satellite communications systems; in-depth understanding of frequency spectrum allocation and electromagnetic compatibility.
9. Familiarity with DHS and federal telecommunications standards, policies, and guidelines.
10. Strong customer service and training abilities, with a proactive, solution-focused approach to planning and problem-solving.

Please read the following important information to ensure we have everything we need to consider your application:

It is your responsibility to ensure that you submit appropriate documentation prior to the closing date. Your resume serves as the basis for qualification determinations and must highlight your most relevant and significant experience as it relates to this Joint Duty assignment opportunity announcement.

Be clear and specific when describing your work history since human resources cannot make assumptions regarding your experience. Your application will be rated based on your resume.

Please ensure EACH work history includes ALL of the following information:

1. Job Title (Include series and grade of Federal Job)
2. Duties (Be specific in describing your duties)
3. Name of Federal agency
4. Supervisor name, email, and phone number
5. Start and end dates including month and year (e.g. June 2007 to April 2008)

Education

EDUCATIONAL SUBSTITUTION: There is no educational substitution for this position.

Additional information

**DHS does not offer any additional benefits beyond that which the Federal employee is already receiving.

If the position requires a security clearance, employees must have a SECRET or TOP SECRET clearance to placement AND must maintain that level of clearance while performing in the position.

Selected applicants for a JDA are requested to fulfill the items below during the JDA:

1. Complete the DHS Training Course 15 days prior to the arrival to the JDA.
2. Complete the DHS Joint Duty Assignment Progress Plan to include:
   • Phase 1: Establish assignment objectives within the first 30 days of the JDA.
   • Phase 2: Complete a self-assessment of the duties performed at the mid-point of the JDA.
   • Phase 3: Complete a final review within the last 30 days of the JDA.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.