Protocol Specialist

At Credence, we support our clients’ mission-critical needs, powered by technology. We provide cutting-edge solutions, including AI/ML, enterprise modernization, and advanced intelligence capabilities, to the largest defense and health federal organizations. Through partnership and trust, we increase mission success for war-fighters and secure our nation for a better future.

We are privately held, are repeatedly recognized as a top place to work, and have been on the Inc. 5000 Fastest Growing Private Companies list for the last 12 years. We practice servant leadership and believe that by focusing on the success of our clients, team members, and partners, we all achieve greater success.

We are seeking a highly motivated Protocol Specialist to support Space Systems Command (SSC) on the Command Staff Support contract, working directly with the SSC Front Office and Protocol Office at Los Angeles Space Force Base. This role is central to enabling seamless Distinguished Visitor (DV) engagements, high‑visibility ceremonies, and senior‑leader interactions across SSC and the broader U.S. Space Force enterprise.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to the duties listed below

Event & Ceremony Support

• The Protocol Specialist will plan, coordinate, and execute protocol support for SSC events, Distinguished Visitor engagements, and official ceremonies. Activities include, but are not limited to:
• Awards, promotions, and retirement ceremonies
• Courtesy calls and senior‑leader engagements
• Special ceremonies, receptions, and social events
• Ensuring all protocol activities align with SSC/CC priorities and Government Protocol Office guidance

Training Development & Delivery

• Develop, maintain, and deliver training materials to guide protocol team members and SSC points of contact. Responsibilities include:
• Creating and updating training modules on escort procedures, agenda/itinerary development, customs and courtesies, and event execution
• Delivering training via on‑site instruction, live online sessions, or self‑paced modules
• Publishing and maintaining training materials on the SSC Protocol Office SharePoint site
• Ensuring training is accessible to all SSC personnel

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• This role requires continuous coordination with key internal and external partners, including:
• Space Base Delta 3 (SBD 3)
• Commander’s Action Group (CAG)
• Office of Special Investigations (OSI)
• History Office (HO)
• Public Affairs (PA)
• Base Photo
• Professional organizations and industry partners involved in base‑wide events

The Protocol Specialist will also:

• Build and maintain relationships with Protocol Directors/Chiefs at HQ USSF, SpOC, and STARCOM
• Chair recurring meetings with Space Launch Delta 30 and 45, in coordination with the Government Protocol lead

DV Visit Tracking & Metrics

• Create, maintain, and distribute the SSC DV Visit Tracker for the SSC Front Office, CSS, CAG, CCP, PA, and JA. Responsibilities include:
• Tracking and reporting monthly DV visit statistics
• Publishing weekly visitor schedules
• Coordinating DV billeting assignments in accordance with SSC/CC guidelines
• Ensuring all products receive SSC Protocol Office approval prior to distribution
• Developing metrics dashboards and automated reporting tools to enhance visibility and decision‑making

Requirements:
• Active secret security clearance is required
• Proficiency with computers and modern office technology
• Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
• Ability to routinely engage with senior leaders, distinguished visitors, and external organizations
• Demonstrated ability to work proactively, anticipate needs, and solve problems independently
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent tasks in a fast‑paced environment

Preferred

• Experience supporting U.S. Space Force, Space Systems Command, or DoD protocol operations
• Familiarity with DV management, military customs and courtesies, and senior‑leader engagement processes
• Experience developing or automating workflows using AI tools
• Ability to create and analyze metrics, dashboards, and reports
• Experience with Power BI or similar analytics platforms
• Prior experience supporting high‑visibility events or senior‑leader engagements