Department of Commerce
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Office of the Under Secretary. Office of Space Commerce
Position Snapshot
The Department of Commerce is seeking a Compliance Specialist for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Space Commerce. The role sits within Commercial Remote Sensing Regulatory Affairs and is based in Washington, D.C. One permanent, full-time vacancy is available.
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Employment Details
- Location: Washington, D.C.
- Work Arrangement: On-site with telework eligibility based on agency policy
- Schedule: Full-time
- Appointment Type: Permanent. Competitive service
- Salary Range: $120,579 to $185,234 per year
- Pay Band: ZA 4. Equivalent to GS 13 to GS 14
- Application Window: December 29, 2025 – December 28, 2026
- Initial Cut Off Date: January 12, 2026
- Travel Requirement: Up to 25 percent
- Security Clearance: Top Secret. Special Sensitive high risk
- Drug Testing: Required
About the Office
The Office of Space Commerce works to advance United States leadership in commercial space activities. It oversees regulatory frameworks that ensure private remote sensing systems operate in line with federal law, national security interests, and public trust.
Role Overview
The Compliance Specialist supports oversight of private remote sensing space systems. The position focuses on regulatory compliance, technical analysis, inspections, and investigative reporting. The role requires close coordination with federal stakeholders and licensed commercial operators.
Primary Responsibilities
Regulatory Oversight and Investigations
The specialist develops and executes investigative plans to monitor private remote sensing operations. This includes space systems, ground stations, and information systems. The work ensures data security, integrity, confidentiality, and governance.
Technical Analysis and Compliance Review
The role involves analyzing satellite command and control networks, data processing systems, and dissemination architectures. The specialist applies expert knowledge of satellite operations and remote sensing data to confirm compliance with licensing and regulatory requirements.
Inspections and Field Activities
The position leads on-site inspections of ground components, including mission control centers and remote terminals. These inspections confirm adherence to federal licenses, laws, and regulations.
Reporting and Documentation
The specialist authors detailed investigative and inspection reports. These reports document findings, assess compliance status, and identify areas of non-compliance when present.
Operational and Employment Conditions
The position requires operating a federal motor vehicle for inspections and site visits. A valid state driver’s license is required. The role also requires maintaining a Top Secret-level security clearance and meeting ongoing background investigation standards.
Candidate Eligibility
Applicants must be United States citizens and suitable for federal employment. Registration for the Selective Service is required when applicable. The role may include a one-year probationary period under the Department of Commerce Alternative Personnel System.
This opportunity is open to current or former federal employees with permanent competitive status, eligible individuals under special or noncompetitive authorities, veterans, military spouses, individuals with disabilities, and other qualifying groups outlined by federal hiring authorities.
Qualifications and Experience
There is no formal education requirement for this role. Substitution of education for experience does not apply.
Applicants must demonstrate 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the ZA-3 or GS-12 level. Qualifying experience includes analyzing remote sensing space system operations, ensuring compliant data collection and dissemination practices, and authoring compliance or inspection reports related to space systems or information security.
Volunteer and unpaid experience may count if they demonstrate relevant skills and competencies.
Evaluation Process
Applications are reviewed against federal qualification standards issued by the Office of Personnel Management. Qualified candidates may complete a job knowledge assessment. Interviews may include a work simulation exercise to evaluate applied expertise.
Application Process
Candidates must apply through USAJOBS and submit a complete application package before the closing date, including all required questionnaires and supporting documentation. Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis with multiple cutoff dates throughout the year.
Additional Notes
NOAA participates in E-Verify and is an equal opportunity employer. This announcement may be used to fill similar positions across the federal government with comparable duties, grades, and qualifications.
Agency Contact
Email: noaa.applicantinquiries@noaa.gov
Office: NOAA Office of Human Capital Services
Silver Spring, Maryland
This role is suited for professionals committed to public service, regulatory integrity, and the advancement of responsible commercial space operations.