Sr. Planning Support Specialist

About the role

The Senior Planning Support Specialist supports the Marine Corps Forces, Pacific (MARFORPAC) in driving day-to-day execution of MARFORPAC G-5 (Plans) deliberate planning support and the daily planning battle rhythm.

Responsibilities

• Lead assigned planning support efforts across operational, functional, campaign, and posture planning cycles to meet directed timelines
• Synchronize inputs across USINDOPACOM, Headquarters Marine Corps (HQMC), MARFORPAC staff divisions, adjacent components/sub-unified commands, and Marine Expeditionary Forces (MEFs)
• Manage planning tasks, suspense dates, staffing actions, decision points, and follow-through to reduce delays and rework
• Run Operational Planning Team (OPT) and working group support (prep, read-aheads, notes/actions, closeout)
• Develop briefing decks, information papers, and planning documents for senior leader review/approval
• Edit and format products to ensure clarity, consistency, and executive-ready quality using established standards
• Maintain version control and auditable staffing/coordination records across iterations
• Cook up program-based planning tasks to align assumptions, inputs, and outputs across organizations
• Support posture initiative planning activities by organizing inputs, staffing actions, and implementation tracking (as directed)
• Coach junior staff on battle rhythm discipline, staffing hygiene, and product formatting to improve throughput
• Owns day-to-day planning support execution for assigned efforts (battle rhythm, staffing mechanics, delivery)
• Decides work sequencing and coordination approach within established standards; escalates priority conflicts/tradeoffs to government leads

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree (or equivalent practical experience) in a relevant field
• Career level school completion (e.g. Expeditionary Warfare School or other service equivalents)
• Intermediate Level Schools (ILS) completion (e.g. Marine Corps Command and Staff College or other service equivalents)
• 7+ years' experience supporting military, joint, or federal civilian planning (meetings/working groups, staff products for senior leaders)
• Demonstrated proficiency producing/editing briefing decks, information papers, and formal planning documents
• Demonstrated education and application of the Marine Corps Planning Process (MCPP) and the Joint Planning Process (JPP). Familiarity with JPEC processes and joint planning forums (e.g., OPTs, joint planning groups)
• Ability to comply with government workplace requirements and obtain/maintain any required access/eligibility
• Operational execution, suspense management, and staffing discipline
• Clear writing and synthesis of complex inputs into decision-ready outputs
• Attention to detail, formatting rigor, and version control
• Professional judgment on when to elevate risks, conflicts, or late-breaking changes
• Accountable for on-time delivery, complete staffing packages, and reliable coordination closure

Qualifications

• Intermediate Advanced Level Schools (A-ILS) planning education (e.g., JAWS/SAMS/SAW/MAWS/SAASS)
• Relevant professional certifications (e.g., PMP)
• Prior relevant MOS experience (e.g., USMC 0507/0505/0502/0511 or other service MOS equivalents)
• Prior experience working with/alongside USINDOPACOM, MARFORPAC, HQMC, a combatant command, Service component, or MEF HQ

Skills

• Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
• Experience with project management tools and methodologies

Benefits

LIFE CYCLE ENGINEERING offers a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Affordable Medical/Dental/Vision Plans for employees and their families
• Free Employee Life and Disability Insurance, with supplemental coverage options available
• Health Savings Account and Flexible Savings Account options
• Company matched 401(k) & company-funded Employee Stock Ownership Program (ESOP)
• Paid Vacation, Holiday, Sick Leave
• Continuing Education and Professional Development programs at all levels
• Flexible Schedules and Relaxed Dress Code
• Employer-sponsored events, social collaboration, and open communication
• Free access to an extensive online training library, including certification prep
• Bonus Program for outstanding contributions
• Employee Referral Program
• numerous Recognition Opportunities