Monthly Archives: October 2011
Defense Intelligence Agency ~ 2012 DIA Undergraduate Training Assistance Program
Job Title:The 2012 DIA Undergraduate Training Assistance Program
Department:Department of Defense
Agency:Defense Intelligence Agency
Job Announcement Number: Y12-031810-01-RFF
SALARY RANGE: $21,840.00 to $37,983.00 / Per Year
OPEN PERIOD: Thursday, October 06, 2011 to Tuesday, November 15, 2011
SERIES & GRADE: GG-0099-09
POSITION INFORMATION: Full Time – Permanent
DUTY LOCATIONS: 1 vacancy(s) – DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
WHO MAY BE CONSIDERED: United States Citizens
JOB SUMMARY:
As a member of the United States Intelligence Community, the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) is a Department of Defense combat support agency. With over 16,500 military and civilian employees worldwide, DIA is a major producer and manager of foreign military intelligence. We provide military intelligence to warfighters, defense planners, and defense and national security policymakers in the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community in support of U.S. military planning and operations and weapon systems acquisition. We invite you to learn how you can become a valued member of the DIA team.
DCIPS TRANSITION INFORMATION: The Defense Intelligence Agency will transition from a banded pay structure to a GS-like grade and step pay structure on or about September 25, 2011. Employee pay will no longer align to a broad pay band salary range, but will instead align to a specific grade and step. Applicants hired piror to this conversion will be assigned to a pay band, but salary offers will be set to a GS equivalent grade and step. Applicants hired after September 25, 2011 will be assigned to a specific grade and step.
We are committed to:
KEY REQUIREMENTS
The Undergraduate Training Assistance Program (also known as the STOKES Educational Scholarship Program) was introduced in legislation in 1986. The program is designed to facilitate the recruitment of a small number of high-achieving, mature and committed secondary school seniors and /or college freshman and sophomores interested in a career in public service. These students will be offered tuition assistance to accredited colleges or universities, provided challenging summer work, and guaranteed a position in their field of study upon graduation in this highly competitive program. Minorities, women, and the disabled needing financial assistance to complete their undergraduate education are strongly encouraged to apply. Students will attend classes full-time during the academic year, and work at a DIA location during the summer in positions related to their course of study. While in school, students must maintain an overall cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent) for each semester/quarter thereafter.
Students accepted for this program receive:
Learn More: http://www.usajobs.gov/JobSearch/Search/GetResults?keyword=Y12-031810-01-RFF
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Q&A ~ What master degree should I pursue in the Baltimore, Maryland area that is of interest to employers?
Question: First, I want say that you have a great website. I find it very informative and a great resource.
I would like to get some advice on what Masters degree I should pursue.
I am currently on Active Duty orders in the National Guard. I graduated from the Operations Intelligence course three years ago and maintain a current TS/SCI. Since graduation I have worked as a Senior Mission Intelligence Coordinator (SMIC) for a military unit in the Northeast. My orders run out in the spring and I plan on pursuing a job in the Baltimore area. I plan on continuing in the National Guard until my retirement in several years.
I have been looking for employment in the intelligence field in the Baltimore area for approx 6 months; however I am having difficulty finding a job I am qualified for. (I was offered a position with a major defense contractor, however the pay was less than what I am making now and my cost of living would have doubled). The DC/Virginia area would be a 2+ hr (each way) commute for me, so I would prefer to stay closer to Baltimore in my search. Most jobs I have found require more experience and/or education. I currently have a BA in Business Administration and Human Resources. My plan for the upcoming months is to attend as many job fairs as possible in order to network and get my resume out there.
If I am unable to find a job, I might extend with the National Guard, however my income will decrease significantly due to budget cuts (I will lose my per diem and have to PCS). I would prefer not to do this, as I have only been able to see my wife one day a week for the last three years. As with any relationship, this has taken its toll. However, if I was to extend, it would allow me to continue my education for free. If I do pursue my education, do you have any recommendations as to what field?
Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
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Answer: Thanks for the kind words about the website. We are extending our effort to help through our Q&A service.
Ungood news: salaries for defense professionals is dropping and in some areas may be the same or no greater than jobs in the local civilian job market.
The Baltimore area is not a great location for ‘intelligence’ jobs despite the presence of Fort Meade and its contracted workforce as the leading employer in the region.
You really must look southward towards Virginia as the land of ‘intelligence’ jobs, whether in the Pentagon area or across the seven counties of northern Virginia.
If you do not have a fullscope or lifestyle polygraph then you are at an even greater disadvantage in the Baltimore area. You either have one or you do not. Ninety-five percent of employers in Virginia do not care at all about you having a polygraph, but it can be a showstopper in the Baltimore area.
As for pursuing education: AVOID degrees in intelligence and homeland security. These two degrees may be a natural draw for you as they would seem to align with your experience. My advice is to seek degrees that are applicable across many different industries. Consider getting a degree in cybersecurity, logistics, change management, enterprise operations, or international business. All of these degrees have a future, regardless of whether you have a security clearance.
Best regards,
Bill Golden
CEO, USAJobZoo.com
USADefenseIndustryJobs.com
and IntelligenceCareers.com
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Have a question? Ask our career advisor at http://usajobsblog.com/ask-a-career-question/
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Q&A ~ My security clearance is suspended … how do I explain that to employers?
Question: My security clearance is suspended pending a rebuttal of an ‘intent to revoke’ my clearance based on a previous incident over two years ago that has since been resolved. I am looking for advice as far as how I should present myself to potential employers and whether or not this can be overcome even if they do revoke my clearance. Any suggestions?
Answer: The best thing to do if you are in the job market is to avoid bringing the question up. What I am saying: look for jobs not requiring a clearance. There is no positive way to explain this. Continue to pursue your rebuttal. You may even want to consider a security clearance lawyer if you cannot get a clear answer.
As far as employers are concerned, this essentially says that you are ‘not hireable’ should the job require a clearance. There is no ability on their part to understand your situation because it is up to the government to verify that your clearance is active (which it appears not to be) before you can be put to work.
Best regards,
Bill Golden
CEO, USAJobZoo.com
USADefenseIndustryJobs.com
and IntelligenceCareers.com
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Have a question? Ask our career advisor at http://usajobsblog.com/ask-a-career-question/
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Q&A ~ Who are the best headhunters for Top Secret intelligence professionals to seek out?
Question: What are the best ‘headhunters’ to talk to regarding positions both in DC and the New England area for a mid-high level TS/SCI cleared intel professional?
Answer: None. Nada.
Headhunters or executive search specialists are generally interested in only the most rare of professionals. That is because companies normally only turn to them once they have exhausted all less expensive methods to find you.
A headhunter or some such can cost a company 20-35 percent of your first year of income in fees. So companies generally try other methods first ~~ which, when it comes to intelligence professionals ~~ are often successful enough that headhunters rarely (as in extremely rarely) are used to find cleared intelligence professionals.
Your best bet is to A) network; let other professionals know that you are in the market; B) post your resume to clearance-centric jobboards like ours; and C) make Google your best friend and search for positions in locations that match your Subject Matter Expert (SME) qualifications. Example: put Google to work by searching on some term like Logistics Subject Matter Expert Job or Transnational Financial Transactions Subject Matter Expert. Do that and you will find the intelligence jobs are out there ~~ even if they do not call them intelligence specialist positions.
Best regards, Bill Golden CEO, USAJobZoo.com USADefenseIndustryJobs.com and IntelligenceCareers.com ==============
Have a question? Ask our career advisor at http://usajobsblog.com/ask-a-career-question/
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Q&A ~ Finding Open Doors in Intelligence Agencies and as an Intelligence Specialist
Question: What is the best way to get into the intelligence field if you have work experience in International Relations and a Bachelor’s but no military or police experience?
Answer: Are you young enough to join the military and to go into military intelligence? If so then you should. This is how between 70-80 percent of private sector analysts get their start. There are few shortcuts or alternatives.
You could apply directly to the various intelligence agencies. Start here: http://www.intelligence.gov/ … but this will be a lot like playing the lottery as many, many others will also apply.
Have you considered military intelligence? (Smile)
There are many opportunities to get into intelligence but only if you forget about being an ‘intelligence specialist’. Instead you need to become a Subject Matter Expert (SME). SMEs get hired because they help solve problems. Specific problems. What problem do you solve?
Once you answer that then put Google to work. Search on some term like Logistics Subject Matter Expert Job or Transnational Financial Transactions Subject Matter Expert. Do that and you will find the intelligence jobs are out there ~~ even if they do not call them intelligence specialist positions.
Best regards, Bill Golden CEO, USAJobZoo.com USADefenseIndustryJobs.com and IntelligenceCareers.com ==============
Have a question? Ask our career advisor at http://usajobsblog.com/ask-a-career-question/
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Telework Driving Demand for Remote Access
By Mike Hernon – October-December 2011
The Department of the Navy anticipates that personnel will begin teleworking in significant numbers when a new telework policy is released shortly. As a result, there will be explosive growth in the number of users who need to connect to the Navy Marine Corps Intranet and other government networks from remote locations, primarily from a home office, but also from other locations via cellular or Wi-Fi networks. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of the technology options available for remote access will allow commands to make more informed decisions as they plan and budget for an increasing number of teleworkers. While a number of remote access options are available, the network capacity to deliver full desktop functionality from remote locations is limited. Exceeding this capacity could compromise the DON’s mission by preventing some personnel from accessing the network entirely or limiting the functionality or level of performance they have available once connected. The new policy guidelines assume teleworkers will be working with unclassified information only.
Provision of Equipment
Government furnished equipment (GFE) is strongly recommended for regular, recurring remote access. Use of GFE guarantees segregation of government information from personal devices and ensures the device meets current DON information assurance standards. Use of GFE also ensures that the appropriate device management controls, such as remote disk wiping, and software, such as antivirus, are present and up-to-date.
GFE includes laptops; BlackBerrys or other smart phones; tablets; and a virtual desktop solution, such as “NMCI on a Stick.” An external smart card reader may also be required to support Common Access Card (CAC) login and authentication. However, flash and thumb drives are not authorized for use on GFE.
The use of privately owned equipment, such as a personal computer, is permissible for occasional telework. For regularly recurring telework, privately owned equipment should only be used as a last resort because its use for official business introduces a number of issues that could negatively affect both the government and the employee. Unlike GFE, personal devices cannot be integrated into the network’s device management tools. Also, the government cannot ensure that the optimal antivirus software and other security controls are installed on personal devices.
More important, if there is a spillage of classified material on a personal device the government may have the right to confiscate the device and dispose of it (destroying the hard drive) in accordance with guidance regarding the handling of a classified material incident.
Connection Options
Various options exist for connecting remote devices to DON networks. Many devices may be capable of network connectivity through two or more options. Users should be provided with a hierarchy of connection options so that if the preferred method is unavailable, they can try to connect with the next alternative. Thus, when providing a device to a teleworker, commands should also consider the ways in which it will connect to the network and ensure the device is provisioned accordingly.
Web Access. Web access involves using an Internet site, or portal, to connect to a government network through wired or wireless means. Teleworkers can access most unclassified Defense Department and DON CAC-enabled websites through the Internet, but some government sites may only be accessed through a wired connection.
Outlook Web Access. One of the primary telework products for Web access is Microsoft OWA, which provides a version of desktop email, contacts and a calendar application. Some functionality is lost because access to network drives and other peripherals is not available. At the same time, access to OWA is practically unlimited. Another advantage is that OWA may be used on personally owned equipment with the addition of an inexpensive ($12.99) smart card reader.
OWA, used in conjunction with Web portals, is the preferred telework solution for personnel whose remote work can be accomplished without access to network-based services, such as a network drive.
Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN provides a secure, encrypted connection to a network from an outside location, normally through the use of a laptop, but also through other devices. A VPN-connected laptop can provide the full range of network functionality that users would experience from their desktop in the office. VPN access can be accomplished through a wired connection, a cellular air card or an approved Wi-Fi connection. However, the number of VPN ports on the network is limited.
Wi-Fi. Most portable devices, such as laptops, smart phones and tablets, come with built-in Wi-Fi wireless capability. However, due to concerns with potential security vulnerabilities, use of Wi-Fi is strictly controlled in the following ways.
Public Hot Spots. A public hot spot is a Wi-Fi offering that is often available at coffee shops, airports and other public places. The only accepted method of connecting to a DON network via a public hot spot is via a GFE laptop with the proper Designated Accrediting Authority approved Wi-Fi hardware and software installed. The use of a device’s native Wi-Fi capability is not allowed.
Home Networks. Use of a home Wi-Fi network to provide the connectivity for telework is allowed. Home networks should be set up in accordance with guidance from the DON Chief Information Officer and/or the National Security Agency.
Cellular/Mobile Networks. BlackBerrys, and other approved GFE smart phones and tablets, generally connect through a commercial cellular network as the primary link to the network. Some BlackBerrys also support tethering, which is connecting a laptop to the device for Internet access instead of using an air card. The monthly fee for tethering is about 75 percent less than the cost of an air card and should be used when available.
U.S. cellular providers are generally considered to provide a secure, encrypted connection that supports remote access. Some foreign cellular networks are considered “unsecure” and should not be used. Consult with your local information assurance manager (IAM) or security officer for up-to-date travel guidance whenever taking a cellular, or any wireless device, outside the continental United States.
Telework IT Strategy
When developing a telework strategy, commands must consider the various IT options available, personnel, job requirements and associated costs. Because new devices are frequently released into the marketplace and tested for network compatibility, commands are strongly urged to consult with their IAM and command information officer when devising or assessing a telework strategy. These individuals will have the most current information on all IT options.
Command IOs will also ensure that all GFE devices are configured to support telework in accordance with all applicable DON and DoD IT policies. Command IOs will also provide training as required to teleworkers on the various connectivity options available to them, including selecting the optimal network operations center when VPN access is used.
Online Resources
The following websites contain recent information on topics of interest to teleworkers. Because new mobile and remote access solutions continue to be tested these sites should be consulted regularly for the latest options.
• NMCI Remote Access Options: https://www.homeport.navy.mil/home/
• DoD Telework: www.cpms.osd.mil/telework/telework_index.aspx
• DON CIO: www.doncio.navy.mil/
• DON Policy Issuances: http://doni.daps.dla.mil/default.aspx
• DoD Policy Issuances: www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/
Mike Hernon is the former chief information officer for the city of Boston. He supports the DON CIO in telecommunications and wireless strategy and policy.
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Fort Drum, New York stands to lose 1/3 of its $1.5 billion in funding if the Congressional Super Committee falters
The deadline is fast approaching for the so-called “super committee” to find almost a trillion and a half dollars to cut from the federal budget – part of the debt-ceiling deal deal lawmakers passed this summer. Failure would mean something called “sequestration” – slashing more than $500 billion from the Department of Defense.
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Q&A ~ I have several good degrees. How do I get an entry level position in the CIA or the NSA?
Question: After college I traveled for a few years, I am now back on the east coast looking for a career in the Government. I have a double major in Political Science and History, and while my professional experience is lacking, I feel I have gained numerous skills in my travels. My question is, what it will take and/or what path I should follow to get into an entry level position in an organization such as the NSA, CIA, etc.
Answer:
Finding a way into the various agencies is a lot like playing the lottery – some win and most do not.
Each agency probably gets 1 million or more resumes per year and their hiring is at best maybe 100 per month, or 200-250 on a really good month.
?? Any reason that you haven’t considered military service? Your degree + military service = almost guaranteed security clearance, which makes you a player in the defense industry marketplace ~~ where there are thousands, not a few hundred jobs.
There are few front doors in the world of secure Defense Systems and Intelligence careers. Much of the defense workforce morphs and migrates from company to company as problems and needs change.
You must have patience, focus and a 2-5 year plan if you are trying to break into the business. If you are already experienced then you need to stay focused on specific markets and move as they do.
You must be realistic ~~ MOST secure defense and intelligence specialists have prior military or federal government backgrounds. If you are unwilling to serve in the Armed Forces or the federal government then you are decreasing your opportunities by as much as 80-90%.
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Points to Ponder
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~~ Entry level opportunities in Federal Government are far fewer than in the Armed Services.
~~ The defense industry, even in good times, has few entry-level positions.
~~ The defense industry needs experience and security clearances to put you to work.
~~ Security clearances can take as long as 18 months to acquire. You cannot be used in most environments without a prior government security clearance.
~~ Acquiring a security clearance comes ONLY from government service or employment by a defense contractor with national defense requirements.
~~ Except for rare engineers, only government and military service offers entry-level opportunities; entry-level meaning that someone is willing to give you a paycheck without you already having a security clearance ~~ your knowledge and experience ONLY have value if you readily usable.
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Options to Military Service
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If you are opposed to exploring military service:
~~ There are entry-level opportunities in the civilian intelligence agencies. However these positions are rare and a multitude of candidates often compete for each position. Minimum education: BA/BS degree.
~~ Many miscellaneous opportunities exist in Federal Government outside if the mainstream agencies. You’ll find these positions listed at http://www.usajobs.gov
~~ Seek out the largest defense contractors. They may have an interesting commercial sector position that you can use as a springboard to ‘hire from within’ opportunities for national defense contracts. Example: Boeing, Lockheed Martin and or one of my all time favorites: BAE Systems – where each job is coded by four levels of education experience.
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Professional Value
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Your focus needs to be on having some ‘problem solving’ value. Intelligence professionals are like bandaids – they are applied as needed. Have you asked yourself WHY you are needed? The answer should be that you have some level of expertise that can be used in problem solving.
What problem do you solve? Answer that and there are opportunities beyond serving just within one of our federal agencies.
?? Any reason that you haven’t considered military service?
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Have a question? Ask our career advisor at http://usajobsblog.com/ask-a-career-question/
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Fort Huachuca ~ Arizona ~ An Overview + Local Jobs
Fort Huachuca – Arizona – An Overview
Location
Fort Huachuca is located in the southeastern corner of Arizona. It is surrounded by Cochise County and the local townships of Sierra Vista, Hereford, and Huachuca City. It is approximately one hour southeast of Tucson. It is a military community with a small town ambience encased by scenic vistas. The cost of living is moderately high. The base operator’s phone number is 520-533-2330, DSN 312-821-2330.
History
Fort Huachuca is the product of Indian Wars of the 1870s and 1880s. In February 1877, Col August V. Kautz, commander of the Department of Arizona, ordered that a camp be established in the Huachuca Mountains. The Fort was the home of the 10th Cavalry “Buffalo Soldiers” for 20 years and was replaced by the 25th Infantry Regiment in 1933. Presently, Fort Huachuca houses the U.S. Army Intelligence Center, and the U.S. Army’s Network Enterprise Technology Command. For a detailed history of Fort Huachuca, please see the Fort Huachuca homepage.
Mission
Fort Huachuca provides equitable, effective, and efficient management of Fort Huachuca to support mission readiness and execution; enable the well-being of Soldiers, civilians, and family members; and to preserve our environment.
Population Served
Fort Huachuca is a joint services installation training over 9,000 students a year. At any given time, we have over 5,600 Military, 8,000 Civilians and over 11,000 family members.
Base Transportation
Fort Huachuca does not operate a post shuttle service. However, Sierra Vista’s public transportation, Vista Transit operates on a limited schedule on weekends, service is provided on Fridays 6:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Saturdays 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and Sundays 11:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The bus stops at a variety of post locations. Currently, fees range from .50 for senior citizens and other special needs patrons, to $1.00 for the general public. Bus schedules, detailing post and local community routes, are available at Army Community Service.
Sponsorship
Sponsorship may be requested at your installation levy briefing, by contacting your local Army Community Service (ACS) Relocation Manager or the gaining ACS Relocation Manager, and/or by contacting the gaining unit. A sponsor will send permanent party members a sponsor package, answer questions about the fort and the area, make lodging arrangements, and meet newcomers upon arrival. The sponsor will help members and their families until settled into the new community. You can reach the Fort Huachuca ACS at 520-533-5919, 520-533-6874, 520-533-2330 or DSN 312-821-5919, 312-821-6874, 312-821-2330. Click on the link at the end of the Sponsorship topic for Fort Huachuca’s major unit listing.
To forward your mail to Fort Huachuca, go online to the United States Post Office website (USPS.com). Under “Products and Services” select “Receiving Mail” and then “Managing your Mail”. Enter the zip code 85613. This will ensure your mail is delivered to Fort Huachuca. You will not receive a box number until you arrive at Fort Huachuca and provide two forms of I.D. The Fort Huachuca Post Office is located in Building 52040.
Temporary Quarters
Temporary lodging is available for both TDY and PCS personnel. Information and reservations may be obtained through Army Lodging, 520-533-2222, DSN 312-821-2222. Reservations can be made up to one year in advance. There are six pet rooms available which are in high demand; early reservations are recommended for the pet rooms. The Lodging Office has a list of hotels that accept pets in Sierra Vista and a list of kennels for boarding pets. PCS travelers have priority for lodging. If lodging is unavailable, a Statement of Non Availability will be provided. For further information, please see topic Temporary Lodging.
Relocation Assistance
Newcomer’s briefings are provided daily at the soldier in-processing conducted at Building 41421. Newcomers Orientations are held monthly for Soldiers, family members and civilians at Thunder Mountain Activity Center and begin at 8:00 a.m. For more information, contact the Relocation Readiness Program at 520-533-5919, DSN 312-821-5919 or ACS at 520-533-2330, DSN 312-821-2330. Lending Locker items, such as microwaves, basic culinary items, cots, mats, and some baby items are available at ACS.
Critical Installation Information
Monsoon season begins early July and may last until late August, early September. Expect high winds in spring. Due to the elevation and heat, acclimation may take at least one month.
Jobs in the Area
Learn more/get more info: Fort Huachuca Overview
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