AFWERX Spark Combat Edge Deputy Branch Chief, DR-0801-03 / DO-1101-03

Job Overview

AFWERX Spark is a U.S. Air Force initiative dedicated to fostering an innovation culture inside the DAF by collaborating with Airmen and Guardians to identify problems impacting the mission at the tactical level and assisting them with addressing tactical level requirements. We are on the hunt for a dynamic Branch Deputy to join our Spark Division, with the primary goal of assisting the Combat Edge Branch Chief with managing the programs and members within the Branch.  

This role is instrumental in shaping the future of the defense innovation ecosystem. You'll be at the forefront of reshaping the internal DAF innovation ecosystem and bridging the gap between the warfighter and technologists, small businesses, entrepreneurs, acquisition officials, private industry, private capital. As the Branch Deputy, you'll be partnered with the Branch Chief responsible for the vision, roadmap, and comprehensive ownership of the people and programs within Combat Edge, while also serving as a trusted advisor to the Division Chief. Primarily, you’ll play a key role in identifying the largest barriers to the transition of emerging technology into the DAF and building a plan to mitigate or eliminate those barriers at scale. This is a unique chance to influence solutions within an organization boasting a $1.3bn budget and working on the toughest challenges the DAF Innovation Ecosystem faces. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds. Candidates with a mix of industry, military, operational, and acquisition backgrounds are encouraged.

Key Responsibilities:

• Define and champion the vision for the Branch strategy to address transition barriers for emerging technology, laying out a long-term implementation strategy. 
• Engage directly with AFWERX customers to pinpoint key requirements. 
• Craft and execute Acquisition roadmaps in collaboration with stakeholders from various agencies. 
• Monitor team performance, leveraging metrics to pinpoint areas for enhancement.
• Stay abreast of transition market trends, customer preferences, and governmental offerings through regular market research.
• Articulate the vision, strategy, roadmap, and backlog to diverse audiences, tailoring the message as needed. 
• Design an acquisition strategy in tandem with contracting personnel, championing funding to deliver essential capabilities. 
• Partner with internal technical teams and vendors to design products that can address transition barriers and customer requirements.
• Coordinate with cross-functional units across the DOD to align Branch efforts with similar efforts across the DOD. 
• Align requirements with the strategic goals of the Spark Division, working alongside cross-functional units. 
• Draft user stories and maintain a customer success story backlog.

Pay Range: $101,420 - $143,324 base salary without locality. The locality will be determined based on the selected candidate's location.

This position is eligible for remote within the continental United States, no relocation is required nor will it be provided.

Telework

Yes, this position is eligible for telework opportunities; as determined by agency policy

Remote Work (CONUS)

Yes, this position is approved for remote work and duty location can be negotiated after selection.

Remote Work (Multiple Potential Duty Locations): The duty location for this position can be at the below Duty Locations. Telework options can be negotiated and implemented after entrance on duty

Austin, TX

Required Qualifications

• US Citizenship
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Special Sensitive security clearance.
• This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent will be subject to random testing.
• Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade, DR-02/GS-13 or equivalent in other pay systems. 
• This is an Acquisition Position, Level/Tier 2 (Practitioner) Non-Critical certification in Engineering & Technical Management (N) or Program Management (A). The candidate will have 24-months to meet APDP requirements or a waiver must be obtained.  Applicant must list all completed acquisition certification on resume. 
• If applying for the DR-0801-03, Senior General Engineer series, the applicant must possess a bachelors degree in engineering from an accredited academic institution or a combination of engineering education and experience. Applicants must list degree information on their resume.

Desired Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years in government Acquisitions or the Defense Industrial Base. 
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving prowess. 
• Proven ability to define the root cause of complex problems and develop solutions 
• Demonstrated experience in managing teams 
• Demonstrated experience in DOD Acquisitions 
• Demonstrated experience working with Industry
• Experience with the DoD’s Risk Management Framework is desired but not required. 

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#LI-Remote

(Req No: 48592)

Series

0801

1101