Regional Affairs Strategist ? Korea Functional Subject Matter Expert

Pay Rate:

The annual base salary range for this position $XX-$XX. Please note that the salary information is a general guideline only. At Sawdey Solution Services, we recognize that attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. We will consider several factors when extending an offer to an applicant. These factors include (but are not limited to) the position, associated responsibilities, work experience, education, related training, and related skills.

Position Location: Arlington, VA

Telework/Work-from-Home Authorized:

When Authorized/Hybrid ?No

About the Role:

The Regional Affairs Strategist - Korea Functional Subject Matter Expert (SME) will serve as a subject matter expert on Korea, consultable on Northeast Asia and Pacific matters. The selected candidate will support the development, coordination, and implementation of policies related to air, space, and cyberspace power to assist the Chief of Staff of the Air Force (CSAF), AF/A3, and NAF Air Component Commanders and Staffs. The role primarily focuses on the near-term time horizon (0-24 months) and current operational challenges associated with Korea and Northeast Asia.

Additional Responsibilities Include, but are not Limited To:

• Develop and advise on policies supporting air, space, and cyberspace power for operations in Korea and Northeast Asia.
• Participate in operational planning and analysis to optimize Air Force capabilities in addressing regional challenges.
• Apply expert analytical skills to recommend actions for major missions and operational plans in Korea and Northeast Asia.
• Provide strategic assessments ensuring operational, logistical, and resource feasibility per U.S. Code Titles 10, 22, 32, and 50.
• Support combatant commanders and JFACCs in operational planning activities, contingencies, and exercises.
• Offer policy-military (Pol-Mil) perspectives to AF Checkmate for advising CSAF, AF/A3, and senior leaders.
• Monitor and provide recommendations on Pol-Mil issues and operational challenges affecting Air Force equities.
• Assist Checkmate Action Officers in coordinating with the Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD), Joint Staff, U.S. Pacific Command (USPACOM), and other relevant agencies.
• Advise Future Operations AOs supporting the AFCAT.
• Develop, review, and refine operational plans, policies, and procedures.
• Identify and mitigate mission barriers through team-building and quality improvements.
• Provide expert-level support on operational capability requirements and administrative issues.
• Evaluate resource requirements and recommend approaches for balancing organizational needs with mission priorities.
• Support senior-level management interactions at the Colonel, General Officer (GO), and Senior Executive Service (SES) levels.
• Prepare position papers and high-level briefings on operational strategies and policies.
• Perform other duties, as assigned.

Experience Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years of combined federal experience (DoD or DoS), including at least 5 years at MAJCOM, HAF, or JS/CCMD J2/3/5/8 levels.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience engaging with senior-level stakeholders within DoD, interagency partners, and international allies.

Education Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree required, advanced degree in regional studies, history, international relations, national security, or related field preferred. Emphasis on Northeast Asian and/or Korean studies is highly desirable.
• Expertise in Air Staff and Joint administrative procedures, including programming, planning, budgeting, policy, and warfighting operational implications.
• Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree in regional studies, history, international relations, national security, or related field preferred. Emphasis on Northeast Asian and/or Korean studies is highly desirable.
• Training, certification, or work experience in Korea Security Studies.
• Extensive in-country experience and expertise in Korea Pol-Mil issues, including Security Cooperation, Defense Policy, Alliance Management, Ministry of Defense or Joint Staff Liaison, Force Development, or Burden Sharing.
• Minimum of 10 years of combined federal experience (DoD or DoS), including at least 5 years at MAJCOM, HAF, or JS/CCMD J2/3/5/8 levels.
• Strong strategic thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience engaging with senior-level stakeholders within DoD, interagency partners, and international allies.

Certificate, License, and Registration Requirements:

• Training, certification, or work experience in Korea Security Studies.

Other Required Skills & Abilities:

• Expertise in Air Staff and Joint administrative procedures, including programming, planning, budgeting, policy, and warfighting operational implications.
• Extensive in-country experience and expertise in Korea Pol-Mil issues, including Security Cooperation, Defense Policy, Alliance Management, Ministry of Defense or Joint Staff Liaison, Force Development, or Burden Sharing.
• Must be able to effectively communicate with customer and fulfill all duties and responsibilities as listed in the contract.
• Must be proficient in Microsoft Office suite including, but not limited to: Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Outlook.

Security Clearance Requirements:

Top Secret/SCI Clearance

US Citizenship Requirements:

This position supports a U.S. Government Contract whose terms require Sawdey Solution Services to staff it only with U.S. Citizens.

• Mission-Critical Work: We play a vital role in ensuring the security of our nation's digital infrastructure.




• Professional Growth: Embrace the opportunity to take on diverse and dynamic roles that challenge and inspire you.




• Collaborative Culture: You are joining a unified team where your unique contributions are valued and celebrated.

• Hardworking Individuals: If you're someone who takes initiative, loves a challenge, and is committed to excellence, you'll feel right at home here.




• Talented Professionals: Whether you're an expert in your field or a rising star, we recognize your potential and support your effort toward success.




• Diverse Perspectives: Our strength lies in our diversity. We believe that a diverse team fosters creativity, innovation, and achievement.

This position is currently accepting applications.