What's Happening?
USAJOBS has announced a vacancy for a Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist at the Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) facility near Sioux Falls, South Dakota. This full-time, permanent position, classified as GS-13, offers a salary range
of $106,437 to $138,370 per year. The successful candidate will be responsible for all aspects of the EROS facility, from daily operational functions to long-term planning, ensuring the facility remains mission-capable for the next decade. Key duties include technical and administrative oversight of personnel in facilities operations, infrastructure management, physical security, environmental and safety compliance, and related support functions. The role also involves managing the full scope of operations to sustain safe, reliable, and uninterrupted functionality of the 24/7 science and data center, overseeing maintenance programs, coordinating contractor work, and developing and executing the annual operating budget. Applicants must meet specific qualifications by the closing date of November 6, 2026, including at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
Why It's Important?
This job announcement is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it highlights the ongoing investment in critical scientific infrastructure in the U.S., specifically at the EROS facility, which plays a vital role in earth observation and science. The need for a Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist underscores the complexity and importance of maintaining such a high-tech, 24/7 operation. Secondly, the position offers a substantial salary and benefits package, making it an attractive opportunity for skilled professionals in facility management and operations, potentially drawing talent to the Sioux Falls area. Thirdly, the long-term planning aspect of the role—ensuring the facility's mission capability for the next decade—indicates a strategic commitment to the EROS facility's future contributions to scientific research and data collection. This sustained operation is crucial for various U.S. government agencies and research institutions that rely on EROS data for environmental monitoring, resource management, and disaster response.
What's Next?
Interested candidates are required to submit their applications by November 6, 2026, ensuring all qualifications are met and necessary documents, including a detailed resume and any relevant transcripts or veteran documentation, are provided. The selection process will involve evaluating applicants based on their qualifications, responses to questionnaires, and additional assessments. The successful candidate will undergo a background investigation and a one-year probationary period. This hiring process will ultimately lead to the appointment of a new leader responsible for the operational integrity and future strategic direction of the EROS facility. The continuity of leadership in this role is crucial for the uninterrupted functioning of the EROS center and its ongoing contributions to national and international earth science initiatives.
Beyond the Headlines
The recruitment for a Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist at the EROS facility reflects a broader national imperative to maintain and modernize critical scientific infrastructure. Facilities like EROS are not just buildings; they are complex ecosystems of advanced technology, specialized personnel, and intricate operational protocols that support vital research and data collection efforts. The emphasis on long-term planning and mission capability for the next decade highlights the strategic foresight required to ensure these assets continue to serve national interests. This position also touches upon the intersection of scientific research and practical engineering, where the efficient functioning of physical infrastructure directly impacts the success of scientific endeavors. The individual filling this role will be instrumental in safeguarding valuable national assets and enabling groundbreaking scientific discoveries that benefit the U.S. and the global community.
