The Air National Guard Intelligence Operations Specialist position represents a premier opportunity for military intelligence professionals seeking to advance their careers in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about the Tennessee Air National Guard’s latest opening for an Intelligence Operations Specialist under Title 32, including qualifications, responsibilities, application procedures, and career advancement potential.
Position Overview and Key Details
Essential Position Information
The Tennessee Air National Guard’s 118th Wing is currently accepting applications for a GS-12 Intelligence Operations Specialist position. This Title 32 excepted service position offers competitive federal benefits and serves as a critical role in national defense operations. The position is located at the 118th Wing Operations Support Squadron in Nashville, Tennessee, and represents a unique opportunity to serve both state and federal missions.
Key Position Highlights:
- Position: Intelligence Operations Specialist (Title 32)
- Grade: GS-12
- Salary Range: $89,508 to $116,362 annually
- Location: Nashville, Tennessee
- Application Period: February 15, 2026 to March 31, 2026
- Security Clearance: Top Secret/Special Compartmented Information (TS/SCI)
- Position Type: Full-time, Permanent
- Announcement Number: TN-12883864-AF-26-098
Core Duties and Responsibilities
ISR Unit Commander Role
As an Intelligence Operations Specialist, you will serve as an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) unit crew commander, bearing full responsibility and accountability for all facets of ISR unit operations and production. This leadership position requires expertise in managing complex intelligence operations that directly support national security objectives.
Primary Operational Responsibilities:
- Time Critical Targeting (TCT): Execute rapid intelligence analysis and targeting support for mission-critical operations
- Direct Threat Warning: Provide real-time threat assessment and warning to protect personnel and assets
- Battle Damage Assessment: Evaluate operational effectiveness and document mission outcomes
- Combat Identification: Distinguish friendly, neutral, and hostile forces in operational environments
- Combat Search and Rescue Support: Provide intelligence support for personnel recovery operations
- Multi-Intelligence Correlation: Integrate multiple intelligence disciplines for comprehensive analysis
- Threat Analysis: Assess and document potential threats to mission success
- Intelligence Preparation of the Battlespace: Develop comprehensive intelligence products supporting operational planning
Leadership and Management Functions
Beyond operational duties, this position requires substantial leadership capabilities. You will provide comprehensive supervision and guidance to intelligence personnel across both full-time and traditional Guard members. Your responsibilities include:
- Performance Evaluation: Conduct thorough assessments of personnel performance and provide constructive feedback
- Career Guidance: Mentor intelligence professionals on career development and advancement opportunities
- Technical Assistance: Provide expert technical support to unit members on intelligence operations
- Training Coordination: Plan and execute comprehensive training programs aligned with gaining command requirements
- Resource Management: Plan, organize, and manage fiscal resources for ISR unit operations
Qualification Requirements
Military Service Requirements
National Guard membership is mandatory for this Title 32 position. Applicants must meet specific military grade and assignment compatibility requirements:
- Military Grades: O-1 through O-5 (Officer ranks from Second Lieutenant through Lieutenant Colonel)
- Compatible Military Assignment: 14N (Intelligence Officer Air Force Specialty Code)
- Guard Membership: Must be current member or eligible for immediate membership in Tennessee Air National Guard
Professional Experience Requirements
General Experience:
Candidates must demonstrate administrative, professional, investigative, or technical work experience that showcases the ability to deal effectively with others, collect and evaluate pertinent facts, organize information systematically, and prepare clear, concise written reports. This foundational experience establishes your capability to handle the diverse responsibilities of intelligence operations.
Specialized Experience:
Applicants must possess at least 36 months of specialized experience or one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level. This specialized experience must include:
- Developing and recommending intelligence policy and procedures
- Organizing and implementing specific intelligence programs
- Evaluating and recommending changes to intelligence operations methods
- Managing intelligence functions and personnel
- Leading, directing, and assigning work to intelligence personnel
Security Clearance Requirements
This position requires Top Secret/Special Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance. Applicants must either currently possess this clearance level or be able to obtain it within one year of appointment. The TS/SCI clearance involves extensive background investigation, including financial history, criminal records, foreign contacts, and personal character references.
Application Process and Required Documentation
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the USAJOBS platform by 11:59 PM EST on March 31, 2026. The application process requires careful attention to detail and complete documentation to ensure consideration.
Application Steps:
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account at www.usajobs.gov
- Search for announcement number TN-12883864-AF-26-098
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Submit application before the March 31, 2026 deadline
Required Documentation
Complete Resume Requirements:
Your resume must be comprehensive and detailed. The application review process relies heavily on the information you provide, so incomplete resumes will result in non-consideration. Your resume must include:
- Full name, current address, email address, and telephone number
- Detailed work experience with employer names and addresses
- Supervisor names and contact information for each position
- Employment dates (month and year) for all positions
- Hours worked per week and salary information
- Detailed description of duties and accomplishments for each position
Critical Resume Writing Guidance:
Each applicant must fully substantiate in their own words that they meet 100% of the minimum requirements and specialized experience. Do not copy and paste from the vacancy announcement or position description. Your resume must clearly demonstrate how your experience aligns with the position requirements through specific examples and detailed descriptions of your accomplishments.
Supporting Documents:
- SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action) if currently federal employee
- DD-214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty) Member Copy 4
- Official transcripts or diplomas if claiming education
- Professional certifications and licenses
- Official course completion certificates (Form 1059) for military training
Comprehensive Benefits Package
Federal employment with the Air National Guard provides an extensive benefits package designed to support you and your family throughout your career and into retirement. These benefits complement the competitive salary and represent significant additional compensation value.
Health and Insurance Benefits:
- Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program with multiple plan options
- Dental and vision insurance programs
- Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI)
- Long-term care insurance options
Retirement Benefits:
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) pension
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions
- Social Security benefits
Leave and Time Off:
- Annual leave accrual (13-26 days per year based on service)
- Sick leave accrual (13 days per year)
- Federal holidays (11 paid holidays annually)
- Military leave for training and deployments
Career Development and Advancement Opportunities
The Intelligence Operations Specialist position offers substantial opportunities for professional growth and career advancement within the Air National Guard and broader defense intelligence community. This GS-12 position provides a platform for developing expertise in cutting-edge intelligence technologies and methodologies.
Professional Development:
- Access to advanced intelligence training courses and certifications
- Opportunities to attend specialized schools and conferences
- Exposure to latest intelligence technologies and analytical tools
- Networking with intelligence professionals across military services
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary range for Air National Guard Intelligence Operations Specialist?
The GS-12 Intelligence Operations Specialist position offers an annual salary ranging from $89,508 to $116,362, with locality pay adjustments applied based on the Nashville, Tennessee duty location. This competitive salary reflects the specialized nature of the position and the high-level security clearance required.
Do I need to be a current National Guard member to apply?
Applicants may be current Tennessee Air National Guard members, eligible for immediate membership, or willing to join upon selection. Priority consideration is given to current on-board permanent employees and lateral transfers, followed by current Tennessee Air National Guard members, and finally qualified applicants eligible for Guard membership.
What security clearance is required for this position?
This position requires Top Secret/Special Compartmented Information (TS/SCI) security clearance. Applicants must possess this clearance or be able to obtain it within one year of appointment. The clearance process involves extensive background investigation and periodic reinvestigation throughout employment.
Conclusion: Your Path to Intelligence Excellence
The Air National Guard Intelligence Operations Specialist position represents an exceptional opportunity to serve your nation while developing advanced intelligence capabilities. This role combines the stability of federal employment with the dynamic challenges of military intelligence operations, offering competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and meaningful career advancement potential.
With the application window open until March 31, 2026, now is the time to prepare your application materials and position yourself for success. Ensure your resume comprehensively demonstrates your qualifications, gather all required supporting documentation, and complete the occupational questionnaire thoughtfully and accurately.
For additional information about this position or to begin your application, visit USAJOBS.gov and search for announcement number TN-12883864-AF-26-098. You may also contact the hiring agency representative, Minnie Randolph, at 615-313-3031 or minnie.m.randolph.civ@army.mil for specific questions about the position or application process.
Join the Tennessee Air National Guard’s 118th Wing and contribute your expertise to protecting America’s national security interests while building a rewarding career in military intelligence operations. Your skills, dedication, and commitment to excellence are needed to support critical intelligence missions that safeguard our nation.