Federal

Instructional Systems Specialist

Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers ยท Department of Homeland Security
๐Ÿ“ Glynco, Georgia GS-12/13 $89,508 - $138,370/yr
Posted: Feb 18, 2026 Deadline: Mar 3, 2026 (Closed days left)

About This Position

"The Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), through strategic partnerships, prepares the federal law enforcement community to safeguard America's people, property, and institutions." We are a unique inter-agency organization preparing the next generation of law enforcement officers to meet our Nation's most pressing security challenges." Click here to learn more. A recruitment or relocation incentive may be authorized. See additional info section.

Qualifications

A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. For additional assistance, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center - Update your resume now so it meets new resume requirements Specialized Experience for the GS-13: You qualify for the GS-13 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-12 grade level in the Federal government, performing duties such as: 1) Leading teams of stakeholders to develop complex training programs using the ADDIE model or a similar instructional framework; 2) Collaborating with stakeholders and executive leadership to deliver quality training products and services; 3) Determining task-to-performance objective relationships and organizing course content to ensure logical flow and alignment; 4) Analyzing training needs and evaluation data to identify solutions to improve training; 5) Managing multiple training initiatives simultaneously.

Substitution of education in lieu of specialized experience may not be used for this grade level. Specialized Experience for the GS-12: You qualify for the GS-12 grade level if you possess one year of specialized experience, equivalent to the GS-11 grade level in the Federal government, performing duties such as: 1) Applying the ADDIE model or similar instructional design frameworks to support the development of training. 2) Determining task-to-performance objective relationships to ensure alignment between training and outcomes; 3) Using evaluation reports or Kirkpatrick evaluation methods to identify and recommend training improvements; 4) Collaborating with subject matter experts (SMEs) and other stakeholders to ensure training content is accurate, relevant, and support the mastery of training objectives. All qualifications and eligibility requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement.

Substitution of education in lieu of specialized experience may not be used for this grade level. All requirements must be met by the closing date of the announcement. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social).

Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Current or Former Political Appointees: The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) must authorize employment offers made to current or former political appointees. If you are currently, or have been within the last 5 years, a political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee in the Executive Branch, you must disclose this information to the Human Resources Office.

Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) eligibles: If you have never worked for the federal government, you are not ICTAP eligible. View information about ICTAP eligibility on OPM's Career Transition Resources website. To be considered eligible under ICTAP, you must be rated at a minimum score of 85 for this position.

In addition, you must submit the supporting documents listed under the required documents section of this job announcement. Re-employed annuitants' annual salaries will be reduced by the amount of their retirement annuity and by further cost of living increases. FERS retirees receiving a FERS annuity supplement must also be aware that, like social security benefits, their FERS annuity supplement is subject to an earnings test and may be reduced if the salary earned is more than the social security exempt amount of earnings.

Additional information is available on OPM's website or by contacting OPM.

Major Duties

Serving as a Instructional Systems Specialist GS-1750-12/13 makes you a valuable member of the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) team and mission.

This position is located in the Office of the Associate Director for Training Ops, Training Management Operations Directorate, Accreditation & Instructional Systems Division, Accreditation and Instructional Design Support Branch, located in Glynco, Georgia. The primary purpose of this position is to serve as an Instructional Systems Specialist responsible to lead the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation, revision and administration of basic and advanced law enforcement training programs throughout the FLETC. Typical duties include: Serving as an expert in learning theory, instructional design practices, educational evaluation, instructional product development and the application of education technology.

Leading the analysis, design, development, implementation, evaluation, revision of basic and advanced law enforcement training programs. Leading working groups in preparation for Curriculum Development Conferences (CDC) and Curriculum Review Conferences (CRC) for assigned training programs and utilizes the FLETC ISD process. Leading stakeholder working groups utilizing the ISD processes.

Providing support for the accreditation of training programs to ensure that training programs and academies established by the Federal Law Enforcement Training Accreditation (FLETA) Board. Serving as the primary point of contact for FLETC training divisions and Partner Organizations (POs) in the design, development, implementation, evaluation and revision of training program curricula specifically designed to meet agency training needs. View common definitions of terms found in this announcement: Common Definitions.

Education

Positions with Positive Education:

In addition to the qualifications listed above, you must possess the following level of education by the closing date of this announcement: A four year degree that included or was supplemented by at least 24 semester hours appropriate to the work of the position to be filled. The course work must have included study in at least four of the following five areas: Learning theory, psychology of learning, educational psychology: Study of learning theories as they relate to the systematic design, development, and validation of instructional material. Instructional design practices: Study of the principles and techniques used in designing training programs, developing design strategy and models, and applying design methods to the improvement of instructional effectiveness.

Educational evaluation: Study of the techniques for evaluating the effectiveness of instructional/educational programs, including developing written and performance tests and survey instruments, and determining reliability and validity of evaluation instruments. Instructional product development: Study of the techniques appropriate for developing training materials, including identifying learner characteristics, specifying objectives, applying training strategy, validating training materials, and evaluating training. Computers in education and training: Study of the application of computers in education and training, including selecting appropriate computer software.

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; applicant's resumes and supporting documentation should only reflect education received from schools accredited by such institutions. Applicants can verify accreditation at the following Website: https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home.

You must submit a copy of your college transcript (unofficial is acceptable) from an accredited institution listing the college/university, degree confirmation date(s) and applicable courses for the position you are applying to. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency (a U.S. private organization's interpretation that such education has been deemed at least equivalent to conventional U.S. education programs) with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For more information regarding evaluation of foreign education for federal employment, please visit the U.S.

Department of Education webpage on the Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.

How You Will Be Evaluated

A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. We will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the minimum qualification requirements.

If met, we will use multiple assessments to place you in one of three categories based on your education, training, and experience demonstrating the following competencies: To be considered for this position, you must complete all required steps in the process, including the application, structured resume review and writing sample. Structured Resume Review: Subject matter experts (SMEs) will review your resume to determine your technical qualifications for this position based on the required specialized experience. SMEs will review ONLY two (2) pages of your resume, starting at your work experience.

SMEs will not review additional information beyond your resume (e.g., links embedded in your resume will not be opened). Applicants passing the resume review will move on to the next phase of the assessment process. Writing Sample: You must submit a writing sample with your application package.

In 5 pages or less, submit a written training plan designed for new law enforcement officers on the topic of writing police reports. Please refer to the required documents section for further instructions on what to include in your writing sample. If you meet the minimum qualifications, you will be placed in one of the following categories: Best-Qualified: Applicants possessing experience that substantially exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position and demonstrate high proficiency in all of the critical competencies, including all Selective Placement Factors (SPF), and appropriate Quality Ranking Factors (QRF) as determined by the job analysis.

Well-Qualified: Applicants possessing experience that exceeds the minimum qualifications of the position and demonstrates acceptable proficiency in all of the critical competencies, including all SPF's and appropriate QRFs as determined by the job analysis. Qualified: Applicants possessing experience that meets the minimum qualifications of the position and demonstrate basic proficiency in most of the critical competencies, including all SPFs and appropriate QRFs as determined by the job analysis. If you are best qualified, you may be referred to the hiring manager for consideration and may be called for an interview.

Preview the job questionnaire https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12890540 If, after reviewing your resume and/or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have overstated your qualifications and/or experience, you may be removed from consideration or your score may be lowered. Veterans: Qualified veterans who have a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10% are listed in the best-qualified category, except when the position being filled is scientific or professional at the GS-09 grade level, or higher. (This position is considered scientific/professional.). Other 10-point preference eligibles and veterans with 5-point preference who meet the eligibility and qualification requirements are placed above non-preference eligibles within the category in which they qualify.

View information on veterans' preference.

Additional Information

A Recruitment OR Relocation Incentive may be authorized up to 15% of pay. Permanent Change of Station (PCS) is not authorized.

This position may be filled at the GS-13 or GS-12 level. If selection is made at the GS-12 level, promotion to the GS-13 level may occur without further competition. The Department of Homeland Security encourages persons with disabilities to apply, to include persons with intellectual, severe physical or psychiatric disabilities, as defined by 5 CFR 213.3102(u), and or Disabled Veterans with a compensable service-connected disability of 30 percent or more as defined by 5 CFR 315.707.

Veterans, Peace Corps, VISTA volunteers, and persons with disabilities possess a wealth of unique talents, experiences, and competencies that can be invaluable to the DHS mission. If you are a member of one of these groups, you may not have to compete with the public for federal jobs. To determine your eligibility for non-competitive appointment and to understand the required documentation, click on the links above or contact the servicing Human Resources Office listed at the bottom of this announcement.

Pursuant to Executive Order 12564 and FLETC policy, FLETC is committed to maintaining a drug-free workplace and, therefore, conducts random and other drug testing of its employees in order to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. Headquarters personnel in safety- or security-sensitive positions are subject to random drug testing and all applicants tentatively selected for employment at FLETC are subject to drug testing resulting in a negative test result. Background Investigation: To ensure the accomplishment of our mission, the FLETC requires every employee to be reliable and trustworthy.

To meet those standards, all selected applicants must undergo and successfully pass a background investigation for moderate risk as a condition of placement in this non-sensitive position. This review may include financial issues such as delinquency in the payment of debts, child support and/or tax obligations, as well as certain criminal offenses and illegal use or possession of drugs. Physical Demands: The work is typically sedentary in nature.

However, some periods of standing and moderate lifting are necessary to set up conference rooms or classrooms, which can include training material and audio-visual equipment. Travel to coordinate training may be involved. Work Environment: The work is typically performed in an office, conference room or classroom and occasionally in practical exercise training areas located in indoor and outdoor settings.

Appropriate safety practices will be utilized at all times. Must possess and maintain a valid state issued driver's license to conduct official government business. The Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act prohibits the Department of Homeland Security and its Components from requesting an applicant's criminal history record before that individual receives a conditional offer of employment.

In accordance with 5 U.S. Code ยง 9202(c) and 5 C.F.R ยง 920.201 certain positions are exempt from the provisions of the Fair Chance to Compete believe they have been subjected to a violation of the Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act, may submit a written complaint to [email protected].

How to Apply

Only resumes up to a total of two pages will be accepted. Applicants with resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. The vacancy questionnaire includes four short, free-response essay questions. This provides an opportunity for you to highlight your dedication to public service for the hiring manager and agency leadership (or designee(s)). While your responses are not required and will not be scored, we encourage you to thoughtfully address each question. Please provide a response of 200 words or less to each question.

You will be asked to certify that you are using your own words and did not use a consultant or artificial intelligence (AI) such as a large language model (LLM) like ChatGPT or Copilot. To preview the questionnaire please click the link below: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12890540 To begin your online application, click "Apply Online" to create a USAJOBS account and follow the prompts or log in to your existing account.

Your application packet must include a completed assessment questionnaire, a resume, and any applicable and/or required supporting documentation. Please see the "Required Documents" section for additional information. All application materials, including transcripts, must be in English.

We strongly encourage you to apply online. If you cannot apply online, you may contact the individual listed in the "Agency Contact Information" section of this job opportunity announcement between the hours of 7:30AM and 4:30PM ET (excluding Federal holidays) prior to the closing date of this announcement to receive assistance. When e-mailing, please include the vacancy announcement number in the subject line.

Applications and supporting documentation will not be accepted by mail or email. The address below is for inquiries only.

You must submit your resume, your online questionnaire, and any supporting documents by 11:59 PM eastern standard time on the day the announcement closes. It is your responsibility to verify that any information entered or uploaded is received and is accurate. Human Resources will not modify or change any part of your application.

Determining your eligibility and qualifications is dependent on the supporting documentation and information provided, which may impact your referral for further consideration. If a document is not legible, you will not be able to view it in your application. To verify your application is complete, log into your USAJOBS account, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position.

The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application.

Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process. To return to an incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement.

You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

Applicants must submit all required documentation to properly qualify for this position.

Required Documents

1.

Your resume (click the link for information on what to include). If you are a current or former Federal employee, your resume must indicate the GS or pay band level for each position held. Limit your resume to no more than two pages. The USAJOBS database will not allow an applicant to submit an application that includes a resume over two pages.

2.

Your responses to the job questionnaire. https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12890540 3. Writing Sample: You must submit a writing sample with your application package. In 5 pages or less, submit a written training plan designed for new law enforcement officers on the topic of writing police reports.

Please include the following information: Outline the specific activities that will be conducted during each phase of the ADDIE instructional design model. Provide a concise statement describing the overall task the training is designed to address. Clearly define the terminal objective and the enabling objectives.

Explain how students will be assessed to determine whether they have achieved the training objectives. Demonstrate how the identified tasks, objectives, and evaluation methods align. Describe the process for determining the instructional strategies that will be used in the training.

Provide a rationale for why your training plan is the optimal solution

  1. Is education required for this position? Submit a copy of your college transcript (unofficial is acceptable) from an accredited institution listing the college/university, degree confirmation date(s) and applicable courses.

Once selected and prior to appointment, applicants must provide an official college transcript. Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet Federal qualification requirements if you can show that your foreign education is comparable to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States. For example, specific courses accepted for college-level credit by an accredited U.S. college or university, or foreign education evaluated by an organization recognized for accreditation by the Department of Education as education equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. college or university.

It is your responsibility to provide such evidence with your application. See Recognition of Foreign Qualifications for more information.

  1. Are you a veteran?

You must provide acceptable documentation of your preference or appointment eligibility. The member 4 copy of your DD214, "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty," is preferable. If claiming 10 point preference, you will need to submit a Standard Form (SF-15), "Application for 10-point Veterans' Preference." If applying based on eligibility under the Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act, you must submit certification from the Armed Forces that you will be discharged or released from active duty within 120 days from the date on the certification.

This must indicate your dates of service, your rank, and confirm that you will be separated under honorable conditions. View more veterans' information.

  1. Are you claiming special priority selection rights under the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP)? Submit the following: A copy of your agency notice, A copy of your most recent performance rating, and A copy of your most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, noting your current position, grade level, and duty location.
  2. Are you a current or former political Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES or Presidential Appointee employee? Submit a copy of your applicable SF-50, along with a statement that provides the following information regarding your most recent political appointment: Position title, Type of appointment (Schedule A, Schedule C, Non-career SES, or Presidential Appointee), Agency, Beginning and ending dates of appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary for the Instructional Systems Specialist position at Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers?
The salary range for this position is $89,508 - $138,370/yr. This is a GS-12/13 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Instructional Systems Specialist job located?
This position is located in Glynco, Georgia. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
A resume must be no more than two pages. If an applicant's resume exceeds two pages, the USAJOBS database will not allow the application to be submitted. For additional assistance, please visit: USAJOBS Help Center - Update your resume now so it meets new resume requirements Specialized Experience for the GS-13: You qualify for the GS-13 grade l...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Mar 3, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
What does GS-12/13 mean?
GS-12/13 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.