Cognitive Performance 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.

Key Responsibilities

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.

Minimum Qualifications

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.

Preferred Qualifications

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