DIRECTOR OF THE AFRICA CENTER FOR STRATEGIC STUDIES

Summary The Director of the Africa Center for Strategic Studies (ACSS) works under Title 10 authority of the Undersecretary of Defense for Policy (USD(P)) to fulfill the mission ascribed to the Center by the Secretary of Defense. The Director works closely with the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), Combatant Commands (primarily U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM)), and key leaders in Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD) in advancing National Security policy priorities in Africa. Learn more about this agency Requirements Conditions of Employment U.S. Citizenship or National Suitable for Federal Employment Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered or be exempt from Selective Service (see http://www.ssa.gov/) This national security position, which may require access to classified information, requires a favorable suitability review and security clearance as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain security eligibility may result in termination. Incumbent must be able to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI security clearance. Extensive travel to developing countries is required. Required to file Standard Form 278 Public Financial Disclosure Report. Drug Testing required; drug testing designated position. Direct Deposit: All federal employees are required to have direct deposit. Qualifications To qualify for this position, you must: Basic Education Requirement: A Master's degree is required in accordance with the National Defense University Regulation 690-4, however, a doctoral degree or equivalent terminal or professional degree in an appropriate discipline (International Affairs, International Security, or related field) is preferred. In addition to the education requirement, the following specialized experience is required to qualify for this position: Executive level skills or equivalent at the general officer, flag officer, or SES level or in management of senior level training and education programs and knowledge of how these programs operate within DoD. Knowledge of executive level DoD Defense operations in support of national security policy and objectives, and ability to apply such knowledge to an international education mission. Knowledge of African security, and policy issues to include U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) and international security affairs in the African theater Ability to develop cooperative relationships with executive and ministerial level leaders of the African [Africa Center's Area of Responsibility (AOR)] governments and international organizations. Ability to acquire, integrate, and administer resources necessary to accomplish a complex international educational mission. Ability to lead an educational institution Additional Qualifications Demonstrated success in building teams and leading collaboratively, working effectively with others in a diverse environment; ability to establish and maintain positive working relationships with Center personnel and representatives of various external agencies. Demonstrated ability for innovation, critical, strategic, and analytical skills, and operate with the highest standards of personal and professional conduct. Demonstrated ability to act with discretion, maintain confidentiality and display a professional demeanor at all times. Extensive senior professional level experience relevant to the mission and the region it supports. Volunteer Experience: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills, and can provide valuable training and experience that translates to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Education Education is not substitutable for specialized experience for this grade level. Education Requirement: A Master's degree is required in accordance with the National Defense University Regulation 690-4, however, a doctoral degree or equivalent terminal or professional degree in an appropriate discipline (International Affairs, International Security, or related field) is preferred. Official Transcripts: If the position you are applying for has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications (i.e. you would not qualify without the education obtained), you MUST submit transcripts with your application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application outside of what is outlined above; however, official transcripts must be verified PRIOR to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation. FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in a conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying or prior to appointment as outlined above. Qualifying education from colleges and universities in foreign countries must be evaluated in terms of equivalency to that acquired in U.S. colleges and universities. Applicants educated in whole or in part in foreign countries must submit sufficient evidence, including transcripts, to an accredited private organization for an equivalency evaluation of course work and degree. You must provide a copy of the letter containing the results of the equivalency evaluation upon request. Failure to provide such documentation when requested will result in lost consideration. For more information regarding evaluation of foreign education for federal employment, please visit the U.S. Department of Education Additional information ACSS has a comprehensive benefits package that includes retirement, social security, and thrift savings; health, life, and long term care insurance; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays. ACSS employees enjoy flexible work schedules, transit subsidy, and the opportunity to telecommute. Background or Security Investigation: This is a Special Sensitive position which requires a background investigation. The individual selected for this position is required to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information security determination to occupy a Special Sensitive position within the agency as a condition of employment. Initial Probationary Period: You will be required to serve an initial probationary period of 18 months. Supervisory Probationary Period: You will be required to serve an supervisory probationary period of 18 months. Required regardless if the incumbent previously served in a probationary status in the Federal government or at NDU/DCSA/ACSS. Reemployed Annuitants: Department of Defense has the authority to hire annuitants without reduction in pay. For more information, go to: http://www.dtic.mil/whs/directives/corres/pdf/1400.25-V300.pdf All applicants are encouraged to apply electronically. If you are unable to apply on-line, you may contact 317-212-4434 for assistance. Read more Benefits A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new window Learn more about federal benefits. Review our benefits Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.