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Posted: February 23, 2026 (0 days ago)

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Emerging Technology Branch Chief

Space Systems Command

Department of the Air Force

Fresh

Location

Salary

$91,870 - $142,022

per year

Closes

GS-12/13 Pay Grade(Career Ladder)

Entry salary: $74,441 | Full performance (GS-13): up to $115,079

Career ladder: Start at GS-12 and advance to GS-13 with experience.

Typical requirements: 1 year specialized experience at GS-11. Advanced degree + significant experience.

Note: Actual salary includes locality pay (15-40%+ depending on location).

Job Description

Summary

This job involves leading a team to develop and improve software systems for the U.S. Space Force, focusing on creating secure and efficient technology that supports military operations in space.

The role requires setting policies, researching new tech like AI, and integrating modern development methods to keep the command ahead of challenges.

A good fit would be an experienced software leader with strong technical knowledge, team management skills, and a passion for innovation in defense technology.

Key Requirements

  • Strong background in software policy, acquisition, and engineering
  • Proven experience in DevSecOps best practices and agile methodologies
  • Deep understanding of the software development lifecycle, from requirements to testing
  • Knowledge of IT, cybersecurity principles, and emerging technologies including AI and ML
  • Leadership and collaboration skills to mentor teams and foster innovation
  • Familiarity with Department of the Air Force policies and space domain operations
  • Ability to interpret policies and develop acquisition strategies for software systems

Full Job Description

To submit your resume for this Direct Hire opportunity click here.

For additional information on other USSF direct hire opportunities visit the Air Force Civilian Careers Space Force website and follow USSF on LinkedIn.

The 1550 series has an individual occupational requirement that must be met and can be viewed here. In addition to the above requirements, you can view the experience level requirements here.

Please scroll down to the 4th section titled Professional and Scientific Positions. Major Duties:

The United States Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado is searching for an Emerging Technology Branch Chief (NH-1550-03, GS 12/13 equivalent).

Description: The Space Systems Command Communications Office (SSC/S6) is a Command-level organization responsible for influencing the evolution of technology, information systems, and cybersecurity across command.

The Emerging Technologies Branch Chief will lead a multifaceted team of civilian, contractor, and military personnel to advance the Space Systems Command's software capabilities.

This leader will be responsible for establishing and enforcing policies and guidelines to foster the creation of high-quality, secure, and scalable software products.

They will provide expert advice to the Command on all software-related matters, including architecture and technology selection, to optimize operational effectiveness.

Furthermore, the chief will conduct thorough research on emerging software technologies to ensure alignment with the dynamic needs of the warfighter, maintain technological superiority, and spearhead the integration of Agile and DevSecOps practices into the Command's acquisition processes.

By championing innovation and fostering a culture of continuous improvement, they will enhance responsiveness to evolving mission requirements and effectively address operational challenges.

The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in software policy, acquisition, and engineering, with a comprehensive understanding of how to architect, manage, modernize, and secure software systems.

This individual must be able to interpret Department of War (DoW) and Department of the Air Force (DAF) policy to help create the strategic direction for Space Systems Command (SSC) software acquisition and development.

Proven experience in applying DevSecOps best practices, agile methodologies, and a deep understanding of the entire software development lifecycle-from requirements generation to testing-is essential.

Strong leadership and collaboration skills are required to work effectively with cross-functional teams and foster a culture of innovation and continuous learning.

While direct supervisory experience is not required, a history of mentoring software engineers and development teams would be beneficial.

Additionally, familiarity with the SSC, United States Space Force (USSF), DAF, and other DoW-level communications offices, along with knowledge of the space domain, will be highly advantageous in this role.

An in-depth understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) methodologies would also be a significant asset. Key Skills and Abilities: 1.

Knowledge of a wide range of IT and cybersecurity principles and systems analysis concepts and techniques, new and emerging information technologies, and security methods and principles. 2.

Knowledge of customers' business processes and operations to anticipate and refine functional requirements. 3.

Knowledge of concepts and principles of sequencing actions, procurement techniques and requirements, and coordination requirements involved in project controls. 4.

Knowledge of design tools, methods, and techniques as well as life cycle management concepts, cost benefit analysis, system architecture, integration techniques, and testing methods. 5.

Knowledge of customary approaches, techniques, and requirements appropriate to analyze requirements, develop acquisition strategies, and implement systems enhancements. 6.

Ability to maintain an up-to-date awareness of technological advances, to apply internet technologies to analyze networks and the related security aspects, and predict how management can meet future requirements

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Posted on USAJOBS: 2/23/2026 | Added to FreshGovJobs: 2/24/2026

Source: USAJOBS | ID: SF-FY26-6S-NH-1550-3-SPLASH