Cognitive Specialist; CPS

The Cognitive Performance Specialist (CPS) enhances Soldier mental readiness, resilience, and performance through evidence-based cognitive skills training and performance psychology interventions. The CPS develops and delivers programs that improve focus, attention control, stress management, confidence, decision‑making, and overall performance in demanding operational environments.

• Assess cognitive and psychological performance factors affecting operational readiness and mission effectiveness.
• Deliver individual and group mental skills training focused on goal setting, concentration, emotional regulation, resilience, visualization, confidence building, and stress management.
• Design and implement cognitive performance enhancement programs tailored to tactical populations.
• Provide consultation to leaders and Human Performance Team members regarding mental readiness and performance optimization.
• Develop educational materials and conduct workshops addressing performance psychology and cognitive readiness.
• Monitor participant progress and evaluate program effectiveness through performance metrics and assessments.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to support holistic performance optimization.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation in accordance with applicable regulations and program requirements.
• Support initiatives focused on resilience, adaptability, and human performance enhancement.

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) or Doctor of Psychology (PsyD) from an APA‑accredited program in Clinical or Counseling Psychology.
• Completion of an APA‑accredited internship in psychology.
• Minimum three (3) years of relevant post‑graduate experience within the last four (4) years providing cognitive performance or mental skills training services to athletes, military personnel, or other high‑performing populations.
• Experience applying evidence‑based performance psychology methodologies.

• Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) credential through the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP).
• Specialized education or experience in sport or performance psychology.

Must possess and maintain a current, valid, unrestricted psychology license in accordance with DHA‑PM 6025.13, Volume 4, Title 10 USC 1094, and applicable federal requirements.