LINK UNIT MANAGER Job in Eielson AFB, AK

Vacancy No. AK-12960884-AF-T5-26-134-C Department Air National Guard Units
Salary $101,206.00 to $131,571.00 Grade 12 to 12
Perm/Temp Temporary FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 5/30/2026 Close Date 6/5/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Status Candidates
Locations:
Eielson AFB, AK


Summary

Opened Area(s) of Consideration: 1, 2, 3

DEFINITION OF AREA(S) OF CONSIDERATION:
Area 1 - All current on-board AKNG T5 Competitive or Excepted Service Employees.
Area 2 - All other current onboard AKNG T32 Excepted Service Employees.
Area 3 - All current or former members of the Alaska National Guard

PDCN: T6387000

Selecting Supervisor: Kevin E. May

This job is open to

Federal employees - Competitive service

Current federal employees whose agencies follow the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's hiring rules and pay scales.

Federal employees - Excepted service

Current federal employees whose agencies have their own hiring rules, pay scales and evaluation criteria.

National Guard and reserves

Current members, those who want to join or transitioning military members.

Duties

Serves as the Link Unit Manager (LUM) and technical expert/advisor for planning, coordinating, and scheduling Tactical Data Link (TDL) operations, maintenance, and equipment for the Mobility Air Force (MAF) Wing. Within the MPC, provides oversight of TDL activities pertaining to the assigned unit and Air Mobility Command (AMC) in accordance with the duties outlined in AFMAN 13-116. Develops tailored procedures, conducts technical training and support, and improves processes of TDL systems for users and maintainers. Recommends changes to operations and maintenance processes to improve mission readiness and system capabilities. Briefs wing leadership on the operation and performance of multiple TDLs. Coordinates with local reserve units to ensure support for weekend exercises. Coordinates the preparations, maintenance, and equipment configurations to execute TDL Network operations in the MPC/Local Airspace which may include working with Major Command (MAJCOM) and appropriate contractors. Facilitates support and resolution for complex Data Link system to include troubleshooting feeds, tasked sensors, and reporting systems in aircraft and/or mobile ground stations with respect to mission planning and long-term homeland air defense implications. Ensures transient, joint, and coalition airframes are equipped with the appropriate client software confirming TDL capability, intelligence, operations, and communications data is received and distributed to subordinate USAF Command and Control elements. Manages execution of the Data Link architecture and coordinates with range and test facilities. Coordinates with Headquarters United States Air Force (HQ USAF) and Theater/Range Joint Interface Control Officer (JICO) on issues related to TDL Network interoperability. Analyzes and resolves problems in order to maintain long-term Data Link architecture due to technology advancements, increased numbers of TDL Network injects, and increased complexity of systems while identifying current and future network information exchange requirements.

Coordinates with Theater/Range JICOs (as applicable), local airspace, TDL users, Electronic Scoring Ranges, and HQ Air Combat Command (ACC) as the focal points for managing and modifying the TDL networks for execution of all procedures operating in ACC. Represents the MAF at higher levels within AMC, MAJCOMs, and at conferences with HQ USAF, Department of Defense (DoD) and other agencies. Supports establishment and maintenance of effective working relationships with other coordinating organizations at the field grade officer level. Delivers presentations on status, accomplishments, problems, and requirements for support to organization leadership or other DoD agencies, as required. May advise MAJCOM on Position Description modifications for unit and Manpower Data System (MDS) support. Responsible for ensuring all multi-TDL networks, sensor networks, and intelligence networks are combined and forwarded on to the MPC's Common Operational Picture (COP). Assists MAF Aircrew in planning TDL network architectures during peacetime, contingency, and wartime operations.

Provides oversight of TDL network operations while conducting testing and training missions in accordance with all pertinent instructions. Responsible for development, management, maintenance, and annual review of TDL checklists. Performs as a liaison with multi-command agencies regarding support to testing and training missions. Works with Homeland Defense and range controllers integrating plans for local training and prepares for real world operations. Utilize testing and training capabilities with required organizations to ensure optimal connectivity. Works closely with training system schedulers to alleviate problems caused by equipment downtime or changes to training requirements. Coordinates efforts to minimize the impacts of TDL training system limitations on formal and continuation training programs. Plans, schedules, coordinates, and supports the on-site activities of outside agencies in conducting TDL training system tests and evaluations. Attends training and system configuration working group meetings to stay informed of changes in tactics, training, and aircraft equipment requirements.

Maintains in-depth working knowledge of local area support agreements which affect TDL network operations. Reviews and confirms environmental controls, facility connectivity, and site activities for the TDL network are accurate and effective in meeting user requirements, mission timetables, and schedules. Develops support agreements such as Letters of Agreement/Memorandums of Agreement/Memorandums of Understanding (LOA/MOA/MOU) to meet mission requirements and provides network operational guidance, project execution support, and collaboration with program managers when necessary to ensure completion of defined portions of overall program effort.

Performs other duties as assigned.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • U.S. citizenship is required.
  • This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program.
  • Bargaining Unit: Non- Bargaining.
  • Must be registered for Selective Service, see Legal and Regulatory Guide.
  • May be required to obtain and maintain a satisfactory security clearance.
  • APPOINTMENT FACTORS: T5 Excepted Service appointment in the Alaska National Guard.
  • Ability to establish effective professional working relationships with coworkers and customers, contributing to a cooperative working environment and successful accomplishment of the mission.
  • Irregular and/or overtime (compensatory) hours may be required to support operational requirements or contingencies or may be required to work hours outside of the normal duty day.
  • May be required to travel by car, in military and/or commercial aircraft, and by other means of transportation as appropriate to perform temporary duty assignments.
  • This is a Testing Designated Position (TDP). The employee is subject to random drug testing. Pre-employment drug testing and participation in random drug testing is a condition of employment.
  • Must attend required courses IAW TDL Planning and Operations publications.
  • Strong background in TDLs desired; preferably a qualified Link Unit Manager with 2+ years of experience or JICO.
  • The work may require the incumbent to drive a motor vehicle; if so, and an appropriate valid driver’s license is mandatory.
  • Incumbent is subject to termination due to loss or reduction in funding for this position.
  • DESIRABLES: JT-220, and MDMC complete. 1+ year of LUM experience and combat experience with KC-135R is highly desired. Intimate knowledge of RTIC procedures for L16/JREAP/SADL use is required.

Qualifications

GENERAL EXPERIENCE is experience, education or training which provided a general knowledge of principles of organization, management, and administration. Compiling reports, letters, memoranda, etc., and required person-to-person contacts to convey information. Progressively responsible experience which demonstrates the ability to provide technical guidance and assistance in the type of work or in comparable work of the position to be filled. Experience using computer and automation systems.

SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE is experience which is directly related to the position to be filled and which has equipped you with the particular knowledge, skills and abilities to successfully perform the duties of this position.

GS-12 - Must have at least 1 year specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. Experience, education or training in program or managerial experience in a type of work or a combination of functions directly related to the position to be filled or in comparable work or functions. Experience developing and recommending policy; organizing and carrying out specific programs, evaluating and recommending changes in methods of operations. Experience in supervisory, staff or technical work which included study, analysis or evaluation leading to the development or improvement of managerial or administrative policies, practices and procedures. Experience preparing written communications and oral presentations. Serves as the Link Unit Manager (LUM) and technical expert/advisor for planning, coordinating, and scheduling Tactical Data Link (TDL) operations, maintenance, and equipment. Develops tailored procedures, conducts technical training and support, and improves processes of TDL systems for users and maintainers. Recommends changes to operations and maintenance processes to improve mission readiness and system capabilities. Provides oversight of TDL network operations while conducting testing and training missions in accordance with all pertinent instructions.

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Resume must have complete dates and hours worked per week for each occurrence of both civilian and military employment (Example: 2 JAN 1980 to 3 MAR 1981; 0800-1630 M-F or JAN 1980 to MAR 1981; 40 hrs/wk) Use of year only will result in disqualification. The duties listed must fully substantiate -in your own words- that you meet the minimum requirements and specialized experience listed above, in detail; otherwise, you will not be considered qualified for this position.

Length of time is not of itself qualifying. Your experience will be evaluated on the basis of duties performed. Your record of experience, training, and education must show possession of the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to fully perform the duties of the position.

ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT

- The employee have a secret clearance prior to appointment and be able to obtain and maintain a current Top Secret security clearance and qualify for access to SCI and various special access programs. Failure to obtain the TS/SCI will result in removal from employment.

- This position is designated as Essential Personnel and may be subject to duty in preparation for, or in response to, a state emergency or disaster declaration. Head of Agency requests to exceed 14 days in a calendar year must be approved in advance by the National Guard, Director of Manpower and Personnel (NGB-J1).

Additional information

- INDEFINITE: Indefinite employees may be separated with a 30-day notice. Indefinite employment is temporary and is expected to last more than one year but no more than five consecutive years. Indefinite employees may be converted to permanent without further competition.

- If you are a current Federal employee or former Federal employee, you must submit a copy of your latest SF-50 "Notification of Personnel Action" and/or a copy of the SF-50. You may submit your most recent performance appraisal.

- NOTE: A retired member of the Armed Forces may not be appointed to a DOD civilian position within 180 days after retirement, without a TAG approved waiver, in accordance with DoDi 1402.01, Employment of Retired Members of the Armed Forces, dated 09 Sep 2007 and National Guard Appointment for Retired Members of the Armed Forces Memo, dated 18 Jan 2019.

- If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/59 and are required to register under the Military Selective Service Act, the Defense Authorization Act of 1986 requires that you be registered or you are not eligible for appointment in this agency.

- Cost of Living Allowance (COLA): Entitled to 1.49% COLA in addition to base salary, subject to change.

- Direct Deposit Program: If selected for technician position with the Alaska National Guard, you will be required to participate in the Direct Deposit Program. (Salary will be automatically deposited to bank/credit union account).

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.

Once the application process is complete, a review of your application/resume will be made to determine your Area of Consideration (AOC) and to ensure you meet the basic eligibility and minimum job requirements. Your initial rating will be based on your responses to the questionnaire in this document. This process measures the degree to which your background matches the knowledge, skills and abilities required for this position. Your final rating will be based on our evaluation of your responses, as verified through a review of your resume and other supporting documents. If, after reviewing your resume and or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications and or experience, your score can and will be adjusted to more accurately reflect your abilities. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your eligibility and rating.

Your qualifications will be evaluated on the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities and other characteristics):
Ability to Do the Work of the Position without More Than Normal Supervision~

Required Documents

To determine your qualifications for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes:

1. Your resume showing work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment and duties performed.
2. Questionnaire. This is accomplished by submitting the application. There is nothing that needs to be attached to this application to meet this requirement.
3. SF-50, if applicable
4. Transcripts, if applicable
5. DD-214/NGB 22 (if claiming former AKNG member)
6. Any additional documentation you wish to submit for consideration.

Your resume, curriculum vitae, the Optional Application for Federal Employment (OF 612), or any other written format you choose to describe your job-related qualifications can be submitted electronically using the document upload process.. We recommend using the resume building within USAJOBS. Please log into USAJOBS, go to your "Documents", make sure you're in the "Resumes" section and select the "Upload or build resume" button, then click on "Build resume". Please be sure to include all of the following information in your resume:

Job Information:
- Vacancy Identification Number, title, grade and location for which you are applying.

Personal Information:
- Full name, mailing address (with zip code) and day/evening telephone numbers (with area code).
- Country of Citizenship.
- If ever employed by the Federal Government, please show the highest Federal civilian grade held, job series, and dates of employment in grade.

Education:
- High School name, city, state and zip code, date of diploma or GED.
- Colleges and/or Universities attended, city, state and zip code.
- Major field(s) of study.
- Type and year of degree(s) received. If no degree received, show total credit hours received in semester or quarter hours.

Work Experience for each paid or non-paid position held related to the job for which you are applying (do not provide copies of job descriptions):
- Job title.
- Duties and accomplishments.
- Number of hours per week.
- Employer's name and address.
- Supervisor's name and phone number.
- Indicate if your current supervisor may be contacted.
- Starting and ending dates of employment (month and year).
- Salary.

Other Qualifications:
- Job-related training courses (title and year).
- Job-related skills (e.g., other languages, computer software/hardware, tools, machinery, typing speed, etc.)
- Job related certificates and licenses.
- Job-related honors, awards, and special accomplishments. (e.g., publications, memberships in professional or honor societies, leadership activities, public speaking, performance awards, etc.)

Do not send copies of documents unless specifically requested.

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

To apply for this position, you must complete the online application/Occupational Questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. To view the Occupational Questionnaire, click the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12960884

A complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration.
To begin, click Apply to access the online application. You will need to be logged into your USAJOBS account to apply. If you do not have a USAJOBS account, you will need to create one before beginning the application.

Follow the prompts to select your resume and/or other supporting documents to be included with your application package. You will have the opportunity to upload additional documents to include in your application before it is submitted. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.

After acknowledging you have reviewed your application package, complete the Include Personal Information section as you deem appropriate and click to continue with the application process.

You will be taken to the online application which you must complete in order to apply for the position. Complete the online application, verify the required documentation is included with your application package, and submit the application.

To verify the status of your application, log into your USAJOBS account (https://my.usajobs.gov/Account/Login), all of your applications will appear on the Welcome screen. The Application Status will appear along with the date your application was last updated. For information on what each Application Status means, visit: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/application/status/.

Agency contact information

Lester Nathaniel Tuazon

Next steps

Once your online application is submitted you will receive a confirmation notification by email. Your application will be evaluated by the Human Resources Office to determine your eligibility for the position. After the evaluation is complete, you will receive another notification regarding the status of your application. Referral to the hiring official will be IAW our agency Merit Promotion Plan and current Labor agreement. Qualified applicants may be further evaluated by a ranking panel. Referred candidates will be further evaluated and interviewed by a selection panel.

Air National Guard Units

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.

This National Guard position is for a LINK UNIT MANAGER, Position Description Number T6387000 and is part of the Alaska Air National Guard, National Guard.

The National Guard is the oldest component of the Armed Forces of the United States. Since the earliest American colonial days, citizens have joined together for collective defense. We have a proud tradition of coming to the aid of our friends and neighbors in times of serious emergencies. Join our National Guard team!

NATIONAL GUARD MEMBERSHIP REQUIREMENT: This is a T5 Excepted Service position and as such does not require active membership in the Alaska Army or Air National Guard.

Agency contact information

Lester Nathaniel Tuazon