IT Specialist (Policy and Planning)

About this role

Applicants must meet all qualifications and eligibility requirements by the closing date of the announcement including specialized experience as defined below. FOR GS-13 CONSIDERATION: Applicants must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the Federal service that demonstrates experience in capital planning, IT governance, financial management, acquisition support, and business operations in an enterprise information technology environment.

Qualifying experience includes performing at least five of the following: Integrating business operations activities across IT programs or portfolios, including analyzing operational issues, identifying performance gaps, and recommending improvements to governance processes or business operations procedures. Applying federal capital planning and investment control (CPIC) principles to assist in preparing, updating, or reviewing IT investment artifacts such as business cases, governance documentation, execution plans, and project justifications.

Supporting IT governance processes, including preparing materials for governance boards, coordinating with enterprise architects, program officials, or contract vendors, or reviewing documentation for compliance with established policies, regulations, and guidance. Conducting analyses of IT financial data, including researching cost drivers, monitoring investment performance, reviewing budget execution materials, tracking obligations/expenditures, or identifying discrepancies requiring corrective action to maintain fiscal integrity.

Assisting with IT acquisition or contract administration activities, such as compiling requirements, preparing or maintaining acquisition packages, supporting evaluations, or monitoring contractor performance to ensure timely and compliant delivery. Developing or maintaining business operations artifacts, including IT governance templates, standard operating procedures, business processes, analytical reports, or documentation used to support portfolio oversight and mission delivery.

Researching and resolving issues related to IT capital planning, financial management, governance, or acquisition, including formulating recommendations and presenting findings to management. Coordinating with higher-level stakeholders-such as USDA oversight offices, enterprise architects, program managers, contractors, or financial personnel-to interpret policy, address operational challenges, or align IT activities with evolving requirements, legislative drivers, or emerging technologies.