The Department of the Air Force has released an official recruitment notification for the post of Intelligence Specialist (GG-11) under the Defense Civilian Intelligence Personnel System (DCIPS). This position is offered as an Air Reserve Technician (ART) role and is based at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. Applications are invited from eligible U.S. citizens for this permanent, full-time federal government job.
This article explains the recruitment in simple, clear English, covering job responsibilities, eligibility criteria, salary, selection process, benefits, and step-by-step application guidance.
Overview of the Intelligence Specialist Recruitment 2026
This recruitment is conducted through the official USAJOBS platform and is open to the general public. The selected candidate will serve as an Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Flight NCOIC, supporting critical U.S. Air Force and Air Force Reserve Command intelligence operations.
Key Highlights
- Post Name: Intelligence Specialist
- Pay Scale & Grade: GG-11 (Equivalent to GS-11)
- Salary Range: $77,460 – $100,703 per year
- Job Location: Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio
- Employment Type: Permanent, Full-Time
- Application Dates: 02 January 2026 to 08 January 2026
- Security Clearance: Top Secret / Sensitive Compartmented Information (SCI)
About the Air Reserve Technician (ART) Role
Raising Good Humans
Raising Securely Attached Kids
The Ultimate Guide to Self-Regulation for Parents
This position is classified as an Air Reserve Technician (ART) role. ARTs are unique federal employees who serve in a dual civilian and military capacity.
Key Features of ART Positions
- Full federal civilian employee benefits
- Mandatory membership in the Air Force Reserve
- Wearing of military uniform during duty
- Participation in monthly training assemblies
- Eligibility for 15 days of paid active duty annually
- Subject to mobilization during national emergencies
ART roles are ideal for candidates seeking long-term stability, strong federal benefits, and continued military service integration.
Detailed Job Responsibilities
As an Intelligence Specialist (ISR Flight NCOIC), the selected candidate will play a crucial leadership and operational role.
Core Duties Include:
- Planning, organizing, and managing ISR flight operations
- Providing intelligence expertise for combat mission planning
- Coordinating geospatial intelligence and intelligence production
- Integrating Air Force Reserve and Regular Air Force ISR missions
- Managing ISR tasking, command, and control operations
- Ensuring legal and regulatory compliance of intelligence activities
- Implementing crew training and ground training programs
- Preparing intelligence briefings, reports, and analytical products
This role directly supports global ISR operations, making it a mission-critical position within the Air Force intelligence structure.
Eligibility Criteria
Citizenship
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
Education & Experience (Any One)
Candidates can qualify through experience, education, or a combination of both:
Experience-Based Qualification
- Specialized experience equivalent to GS-09 level
- Knowledge of intelligence analysis, ISR systems, and operational planning
- Experience in areas such as HUMINT, GEOINT, SIGINT, All-Source Analysis, DCGS, Targeting, or Collection Management
Education-Based Qualification
- Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree
- OR 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education
- OR LL.M. (if relevant to intelligence or security studies)
Combination Route
- A mix of post-secondary education and relevant experience totaling 100% qualification
Note: Transcripts are mandatory if qualifying through education.
Required Skills & Competencies
Applicants will be assessed on the following Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs):
- Expertise in ISR operations and intelligence disciplines
- Understanding of global ISR requirements
- Ability to integrate Reserve and Active-Duty ISR missions
- Strong analytical, briefing, and report-writing skills
- Knowledge of Air Force intelligence policies and procedures
- Leadership, coordination, and workload management abilities
Salary Structure & Benefits
Pay Scale
- Minimum: $77,460 per year
- Maximum: $100,703 per year
- Includes local market supplements
Benefits
- Federal health insurance (medical, dental, vision)
- Retirement benefits under federal pension systems
- Paid leave, sick leave, and military leave
- Relocation expense reimbursement (as per policy)
- Job security and career progression opportunities
Security Clearance & Other Conditions
- Top Secret / SCI clearance required
- Drug testing mandatory
- Subject to random and reasonable-suspicion drug tests
- Selective Service registration required (for applicable candidates)
- Must meet Air Force Reserve physical and fitness standards
Selection Process
The selection process is merit-based and includes:
- Online application submission
- Resume and document screening
- Qualification and experience evaluation
- Security clearance verification
- Final selection by the hiring authority
Incomplete or incorrect applications may be rejected.
Documents Required
Applicants must upload:
- Updated resume (maximum 2 pages)
- Educational transcripts (if applicable)
- SF-50 (for current or former federal employees)
- Supporting eligibility documents
All documents must clearly show employment dates and hours worked per week.
How to Apply Online
- Visit the official USAJOBS portal
- Search for Intelligence Specialist – GG-11
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Complete the online questionnaire
- Upload required documents
- Submit the application before 08 January 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why This Job Is a Great Opportunity
This recruitment offers:
- A respected federal government career
- Competitive salary and benefits
- Leadership role in national defense intelligence
- Long-term job security
- Professional growth within the Air Force intelligence community
For candidates with intelligence, analytical, or military backgrounds, this is a high-value career opportunity in 2026.
Final Words
The Department of the Air Force Intelligence Specialist (GG-11) Recruitment 2026 is an excellent opportunity for qualified professionals seeking a challenging and prestigious role in U.S. defense intelligence. Interested candidates should carefully review eligibility requirements and apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
