Chief of Protocol, SLD 45 Job in Patrick AFB, FL

Vacancy No. SF-FY26-6S-NH-0301-3-SPLASH Department Space Systems Command
Salary $91,870.00 to $142,022.00 Grade 3 to 3
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 1/30/2026 Close Date 2/6/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Patrick AFB, FL


Summary

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.

This job is open to

The public

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Duties

The United States Space Force (USSF) at Patrick SFB, Melbourne, Florida is searching for a Chief of Protocol to support SLD 45 (NH-0301-03, GS-12/13 Equivalent).

Description:
Join the Future of Space Operations - Work for SLD 45 at Patrick Space Force Base! Are you ready to play a pivotal role in the cutting-edge world of space operations? Space Launch Delta 45 (SLD 45) at Patrick Space Force Base is looking for a dynamic, results-driven Chief of Protocol to join our team. This is your opportunity to be part of a team shaping the future of space exploration and national security.

Why Work for SLD 45? Impact the Future of Space: SLD 45 is at the forefront of space operations, ork for SLD 45? Impact the Future of Space: SLD 45 is at the forefront of space operations, Join the Future of Space Operations - Work for SLD 45 at Patrick Space Force Base! Are you ready to play a pivotal role in the cutting-edge world of space operations? Space Launch Delta 45 (SLD 45) at Patrick Space Force Base is looking for a dynamic, results-driven Chief of Protocol to join our team. This is your opportunity to be part of a team shaping the future of space exploration and national security. Why Work for SLD 45? Impact the Future of Space: SLD 45 is at the forefront of space operations, managing space launches and missions critical to U.S. security and global space leadership.

As Chief of Protocol, you'll be a key player in ensuring smooth, seamless diplomatic relations and high-profile events that support the success of these operations. Located at Patrick Space Force Base in sunny Florida, you'll be surrounded by a vibrant team of space professionals and a direct link to one of the most dynamic sectors in global technology. As Chief of Protocol, you'll lead high-level protocol functions, working with senior leaders, foreign dignitaries, and international partners. Your strategic leadership will be key in fostering relationships that advance U.S. space capabilities and international cooperation.

Collaborative Culture: Join a team of highly skilled professionals at the intersection of space exploration and military operations. SLD 45 fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment where innovation and creativity are encouraged, and your contributions make a real difference.

Professional Growth: You'll have access to unparalleled learning and development opportunities, with the chance to lead large-scale, high-profile events and gain experience in managing complex, cross-functional initiatives.

Mission-Driven Work: Be part of something bigger. SLD 45 supports vital space missions that protect U.S. interests, contribute to global security, and advance space exploration. Your role as Chief of Protocol will be integral to ensuring these missions are successful.

Florida Living: Enjoy the vibrant culture, excellent weather, and beautiful landscapes of Florida's Space Coast. From world-class beaches to rich cultural and recreational activities, living in the region offers both professional fulfillment and a high quality of life.

What We're Looking For: We're seeking a dynamic leader with diplomatic expertise, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage high-profile events with grace and professionalism. If you are passionate about space, international relations, and making an impact on the U.S. Space Force's mission, this is the perfect opportunity for you.
Take the next step in your career and help shape the future of space operations with SLD 45 at Patrick Space Force Base.

Desired Skills/Expertise: The ideal candidate for this role will possess the following qualifications:
1. Background Military or Civilian Government Experience: Extensive background in military or government protocol, diplomacy, or related fields. Experience in a senior leadership role is preferred.
2. Space Operations Familiarity: Knowledge of space systems, missions, and military space operations is a plus, although not required. 3. Education: Bachelor's degree or higher (preferred): Preferably in International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, or a related field. Formal training in diplomatic protocol, international relations, or similar areas.
4. Leadership Development Programs: Completion of leadership training programs or equivalent (preferred) Experience: Extensive experience in high-level protocol, international relations, or senior administrative positions, to include leadership roles managing protocol for senior officials or dignitaries.
5. Event Planning and Coordination: Proven success in managing protocol functions, official ceremonies, or high-profile military events. 6. Stakeholder Management: Experience in building relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, including foreign dignitaries, military officers, and government officials.
7. Military and Civilian Protocol: Extensive background in military, civilian, and government protocols, especially related to high-ranking officials.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • Safeguards classified or sensitive budget-related information and/or files.
  • May be required to work overtime on an unscheduled or emergency basis.
  • Eligible for situational telework only, including Emergency and OPM prescribed “Unscheduled Telework”.
  • This position will close after 5 business days or 75 applications, whichever comes first.
  • Employee may be required to perform travel by military or commercial passenger aircraft in the performance of temporary duty assignments.
  • PCS funding is authorized.
  • Subject to Temporary Duty Assignment (TDY): 15 days a year.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
  • Must be a U.S Citizen.

Qualifications

The 0301 series does not have an individual occupational requirement that must be met. You can view the experience level requirements here.

Additional information

Employed Annuitants (Reemployed Annuitants): Applicants in receipt of an annuity based on civilian employment in the Federal Service are subject to the DoD Policy on The Employment of Annuitants. Click here for more information.

Disabled veteran leave is available to a Federal employee hired on/after 5 Nov 2016, who is a veteran with a service-connected disability rating of 30% or more. For more information, click here.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

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 windowLearn 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.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies as related to the series and grade of the position being filled. Final qualifications determinations will be assessed based on OPM's General Schedule Qualifications Standards found here:

Interviews: You will be contacted by e-mail and/or telephone if your application is identified as qualifying for a position being filled. An interview may be conducted. If interviewed, you will be asked to address the same knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies used to initially qualify your application for the position.

Required Documents

Resume:You must submit a resume that may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. You will not be considered for this vacancy if your resume exceeds two pages or is illegible/unreadable. Do NOT include photographs, inappropriate material, inappropriate content, nor personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume. If the resume you submit contains such information you will not be considered for this vacancy. Your resume must provide:

  1. Personal information - your full name, email and mailing addresses, phone number
  2. Education information - the name of the school and the dates you attended
  3. Work experience - paid and unpaid work with the following information:
    • Job title
    • Detailed duties and accomplishments
    • Employer's name and address
    • Supervisor's name and phone number
    • Starting and ending dates (If actual dates are not known, provide your best-estimated timeframes.)
    • Hours per week
    • Salary, if applicable
  4. Other qualifications - skills, certifications/licenses, honors, awards, special accomplishments, and job-related training courses

College Transcripts (if applicable): Please see the Education section of this announcement for detailed information about transcripts.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

Do not email applications. To submit your resume for this Direct Hire opportunity click here.

PLEASE NOTE:
It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information entered and/or uploaded, (i.e., resume) is received, accurate, and submitted by the closing date. You may verify your documents have been processed with your application package successfully. You can access your USAJOBS account to do so by clicking here. Uploaded documents may take up to one hour to clear the virus scan.


Agency contact information

US Space Force Enterprise Talent Management
Email
HQ.USSF.TalentAcquisition@spaceforce.mil
Address
USSF - Space Systems Command
1670 Space Force Pentagon
Washington, DC 20330
US

Next steps

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