LINK UNIT MANAGER (T5) Job in Birmingham, AL

Vacancy No. AL-13044847-T5-26-251 Department Air National Guard Units
Salary $90,410.00 to $117,535.00 Grade 12 to 12
Perm/Temp Permanent FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 8/26/2026 Close Date 9/10/2026
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Public
Locations:
Birmingham, AL


LINK UNIT MANAGER (T5)

Department of the Air Force
Air National Guard Units

Summary

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 5 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.

This National Guard position is for a LINK UNIT MANAGER (T5), Position Description Number T6387000 and is part of the AL 117TH Air Refueling Wing, National Guard.

ORGANIZATION: AL 117TH AIR REFUELING WING, BIRMINGHAM, AL
SELECTING OFFICIAL: COL M. ADAMS

This job is open to

The public

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

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.

Veterans

Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces or a spouse, widow, widower or parent of a veteran, who may be eligible for derived preference

Military spouses

Military spouses of active duty service members or whose spouse is 100 percent disabled or died on active duty.

National Guard and reserves

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

Clarification from the agency

Title 5 NON MERIT CAT 1- All Preference eligible qualified applicants that are claiming 5 points or more veterans preference. CAT 2- All qualified Non-Preference eligible applicants if the preference eligible list has no qualified applicants or there was a Passover request done.

Duties

1. 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. (30%)

2. 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. (25%)

3. 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. Designs and coordinates comprehensive TDL training plans and scenarios to provide realistic training for technical aircrew and maintenance personnel training. (25%)

4. 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. Analyzes TDL operational issues and advises higher officials/project managers of the feasibility of different approaches to provide a basis for corrective action or the solution. (20%)

Performs other duties as assigned.

PLEASE CONTACT HRO FOR COMPLETE POSITION DESCRIPTION.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

  • Federal employment suitability as determined by a background investigation.
  • May be required to successfully complete a probationary period.
  • Participation in direct deposit is mandatory.
  • Must be able to obtain and maintain the appropriate security clearance of the position.
  • May occasionally be required to work other than normal duty hours; overtime may be required.

Qualifications

EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS: Each applicant must fully substantiate (in his/her own words) that he/she meets the requirements of the Specialized Experience listed below: Otherwise, the applicant will be considered unqualified for this position. DO NOT COPY THE VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT OR THE POSITION DESCRIPTION. DOING SO MAY RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FOR THE POSITION.

GENERAL EXPERIENCE: 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: 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.

KNOWLEDGE REQUIRED:
-- Wing/Link Unit Manager processes qualified expert knowledgeable of a comprehensive range of TDL concepts, principles, and systems/equipment, including those that have complex technical requirements and require extensive specialized training and experience.

--Specialized practical and theoretical knowledge of joint services TDL systems/equipment for application to difficult and complex situations and problems that have no clear precedent.

-- Ability to research and solve interoperability problems with a wide variety of complex interactions.

-- Extensive knowledge of military command structures at the tactical and operational levels of war.

-- Knowledge of methods and techniques to participate in complex TDL architecture ranging from local training sorties to major exercises to operational deployments in support of combatant commanders.

-- Knowledge of methods and techniques to execute complex responsibilities of Combat Crew Communications for maintenance and distribution of COMSEC in support of MPC and deployment operations.

-- Thorough knowledge of TDL system applications and technical processes for the effective and efficient utilization of technology resources. Completion of the Joint Multi-TDL School (JMTS) JT-220 Link Unit Manager (LUM) Course is mandatory within 6 months of appointment. Applicants who have completed JT-201 Multi-TDL Link Planners Course and above are exempt from this training requirement. The MAF Datalink Managers Course (MDMC) from the Advanced Airlift Tactics Training Center (AATTC) is desired but not mandatory.

--Knowledge of how AOC processes execute the AMC Commander's directives and overall MAJCOM mission.

--Knowledgeable of a comprehensive range of Common Operational Picture (COP) and Common Tactical Picture (CTP) concepts, principles, and systems/equipment, including those that have complex technical requirements and require extensive specialized training and experience.

--Specialized practical and theoretical knowledge of joint services Data Link systems/equipment for application to difficult and complex situations and problems that have no clear precedent.

--Ability to research and solve interoperability problems with a wide variety of complex interactions.

--Extensive knowledge of military command structures at the Strategic, Operational, and Tactical levels of war.

--Knowledge of methods and techniques to execute complex MPC Live Virtual Constructive (LVC) architecture spanning the entire Major Range and Test Facility Base (MRTFB) TDL Area of Responsibility.

--Knowledge of methods and techniques to execute complex responsibilities of Combat Crew Communications for maintenance and distribution of COMSEC in support of MPC and deployment operations.

--Thorough knowledge of Data Link system applications and technical processes for the effective and efficient utilization of technology resources.

--Knowledge of how AOC processes execute the?AMC Commander's directives and overall MAJCOM mission. ?

Education

SUBSTITUTION OF EDUCATION FOR SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE:

In addition, completion of courses such as the Officer Advanced Course, Squadron Officer School, Command and Staff College, Air and Army War College, National Security Management Course and others of comparable level will be credited at the rate of 1 month of education for 2 months of specialized experience.

You must provide transcripts or other documentation to support your Educational claims. To receive credit for Education, you must provide documentation of proof that you meet the Education requirements for this position.

Additional information

If you are a male applicant who was born after 12/31/1959 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 (https://www.sss.gov/RegVer/wfRegistration.aspx).

**This position may be authorized a recruitment or relocation incentive for up to 25%. All incentives must be approved prior to the employee in processing.**

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 announcement has closed, your resume and supporting documentation will be used to determine if you meet the qualifications listed on this announcement. If you are minimally qualified, your resume and supporting documentation will be compared to your responses on the assessment questionnaire to determine your level of experience. If you rate yourself higher than is supported by your application package, your responses may be adjusted and/or you may be excluded from consideration for this position. If you are found to be among the top qualified candidates, you will be referred to the selecting official for employment consideration.

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you must submit a complete Application Package which includes:

1. Your resume showing work schedule, hours worked per week, dates (including Month and Year, e.g., 02/2017, Feb 2017, etc.) of employment and duties performed.

2. Other supporting documents: SF-50s, transcripts, VA documentation, SF-15s and DD 214s are recommended, but not required.

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/13044847

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/.

VETERAN'S PREFERENCE: In order to adjudicate your Veterans' Preference claims, please upload all supporting documentation. Such as: DD214s and/or SF-15, etc

A. ARE YOU A VETERAN CLAIMING SOLE SURVIVORSHIP PREFERENCE OR 5-POINT VETERANS' PREFERENCE?

You should provide legible copy/copies of the following: DD-214 (member 4 copy), "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," showing all dates of service, as well as character of service (Honorable, General, etc.) or Statement of Service/Proof of Service (in lieu of a DD-214) from your command or local Personnel Support office. The Statement of Service/Proof of Service must provide all dates of service, the expected date of discharge and anticipated character of service (Honorable, General, etc.). If you have more than one DD-214, you are strongly encouraged to upload all your DD-214s.

B. ARE YOU A DISABLED VETERAN or CLAIMING 10-POINT VETERANS' PREFERENCE?

Disabled veterans, veterans, widows, spouses or the mother of a veteran, who are eligible for 10-point veterans' preference, should provide legible copies of the following: Applicable supporting documents as noted on Standard Form-15 (SF-15). To obtain a copy of SF-15, go to http://www.opm.gov/forms/pdf_fill/SF15.pdf.

C. ARE YOU UNSURE AS TO WHETHER YOU QUALIFY FOR VETERANS' PREFERENCE?

Please review the OPM Vet Guide to determine if you qualify for Veterans' Preference. Please visit: https://fedshirevets.gov/Index.aspx.

Agency contact information

Michael Adams
Phone
205-714-2686
Email
michael.adams.15@us.af.mil
Address
AL 117TH Air Refueling Wing
5401 East lake blvd
Birmingham, AL 35217-3595
US

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.

Air National Guard Units

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 and serve your nation, your states and your community!

Agency contact information

Michael Adams
Phone
205-714-2686
Email
michael.adams.15@us.af.mil
Address
AL 117TH Air Refueling Wing
5401 East lake blvd
Birmingham, AL 35217-3595
US

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