The United States Space Force (USSF) Headquarters Space Force Command (HQSF) at The Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia is searching for a USSF Data & AI Officer (NH-1560-04, GS 14/15 equivalent). Description: We are seeking a dynamic USSF Data and AI Officer to join the U.S. Space Force team and play a critical role in the planning, governance, and implementation of cutting-edge enterprise data and AI capabilities that support mission outcomes. In this position, you will work closely with cross-functional teams—including cyber/IT, engineers, developers, intelligence, and operational stakeholders—to gather requirements, shape enterprise architecture, and ensure the seamless integration of data and AI solutions. With your expertise in data system design, analytics, and AI/ML, you will evaluate existing approaches, identify enterprise-wide risks, and drive standards-based solutions that improve interoperability and decision advantage across the Service. You will also lead governance forums, align priorities across organizations, and establish clear guardrails and disciplined waiver processes to prevent fragmented or duplicative implementations. The ideal candidate is a proven leader with at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience across data, IT, and AI domains, underpinned by a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred) in a relevant technical field like Computer Science or Engineering. This individual will possess a strong technical foundation, including at least four years of hands-on experience in software engineering, database design, and analytics, with proficiency in Python and SQL sufficient to guide technical direction. Crucially, they will have transitioned this technical expertise into a strategic role, with at least three years of experience leading teams or enterprise initiatives and a demonstrated ability to operate within complex governance environments. We are seeking a collaborative leader with executive-level communication skills, capable of translating complex technical risks into clear recommendations for senior leaders, developing enterprise data/AI strategy with measurable outcomes, and managing multiple concurrent projects to successful completion. Key Skills and Abilities: • Expert professional knowledge of programming language such as Python, R, SQL and Java. • Strong knowledge of AI/ML theories and principles and its applicability to and within the enterprise level data ecosystem. • Advance knowledge of data governance/policies and data management practices. • Demonstrated ability to develop and implement effective data and analytics strategies. • Skill in providing technical leadership, managing projects and providing guidance to other IT technical specialists, government employees and contractors, engaged in planning and conducting studies and analyses, and developing recommendations affecting management and oversight of current and future Space enterprise IT systems and networks. • Skill and ability to speak and write effectively, to address highly complex technical and controversial issues (frequently in terms understandable to non-technical personnel), prepare and give briefings, chair meetings, lead task forces, and prepare reports and statements for senior military (General Officer/SES), government, and private sector management officials. Requirements: • Must be a U.S. Citizen. • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Top-Secret security clearance with SCI access. A non-disclosure agreement must be signed. • Required to handle and safeguard sensitive and/or classified information in accordance with regulations to reduce potential compromise. • This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent is subject to pre-employment drug testing as a condition of employment, and participation in random drug testing. • Eligible for situational telework only, including Emergency and OPM prescribed “Unscheduled Telework”. • May be required to travel by military or commercial aircraft in the performance of TDY assign. • Subject to Temporary Duty Assignment (TDY): Approximately 15 days per year. • Performs other related duties as assigned. • PCS is authorized. Incentive is not authorized. • This position will close after 5 business days or 75 applications, whichever comes first. Organization: The United States Space Force (USSF) is a military service that organizes, trains, and equips military members and civilians to protect U.S. and allied interests in space and provide space capabilities to the joint force. USSF responsibilities include developing Guardians, acquiring military space systems, maturing the military doctrine for space power, and organizing space forces to present to our Combatant Commands (CCMDs). The strategic importance of space can’t be overstated. Political and humanitarian interests as well as commercial concerns vital to the world economy all rely on space-based systems. Launched in 2019 as the nation’s sixth and newest military branch, the USSF was created to protect the interests and assets of America and its allies in this heavily contested realm. The Department of War relies on satellites and advanced space-based technology for secure communications, navigation, real-time reconnaissance, precision targeting on the battlefield, early warning of potential missile launches, and even weather forecasting. Guardians and civilians of the USSF are challenged every day to reach new heights in protecting and amplifying these space-based capabilities and defending our way of life by maintaining our edge in space. The Space Force wants to attract talent with the character and potential to excel, empower them with information and choices, and develop them in line with their desires and the Space Force’s needs to create a high-performing organization necessary to secure and defend space.