Lead Human Resources Specialist: Advancing National Security
U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is currently seeking a highly motivated and experienced Lead Human Resources Specialist. Based in Bloomington, Minnesota, this role is critical to the success of the Department of Homeland Security. You will lead efforts that ensure the right talent is in the right place to secure our borders and protect our nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Human Resources Specialist, your day-to-day will involve high-level technical oversight and leadership. Your responsibilities include:
- Coaching: Guiding team members in problem-solving and task mastery.
- Recruitment: Overseeing placement strategies specific to pre-employment processes.
- Policy Oversight: Developing and reviewing new HR procedures and reporting on program progress.
- Strategic Advisory: Providing recommendations to management on complex human resources initiatives.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-13 position, you must meet several key federal requirements:
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Registration with Selective Service for applicable males.
- Residency: 3 years in the U.S. within the last 5 years.
- 1 year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level (or equivalent).
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-13 |
| Salary Range | $116,038 - $150,852 |
| Work Schedule | Full-Time |
| Location | Bloomington, MN |
Comprehensive Benefits
CBP offers an industry-leading benefits package to ensure your long-term success, including:
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Generous retirement plans, including the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Flexible work arrangements to balance life and career.
- Ongoing professional development and tuition reimbursement.
Application Tips
Success in your application begins with attention to detail. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less and saved as a PDF. Clearly define your work history, including specific hours worked and salary information, to ensure your qualifications are easily verified.
This role offers a unique opportunity to combine your human resources expertise with a national mission. If you are ready to take the next step in your federal career and serve your country with integrity, submit your application before the July 14, 2026, deadline.
Why This Lead Human Resources Specialist Job Matters
Join the elite team protecting our nation’s borders by leading critical human resources operations at U.S. Customs and Border Protection.
Lead Human Resources Specialist Job Overview
The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is seeking a dedicated Lead Human Resources Specialist to join our Talent Management Directorate in Bloomington, MN. In this high-impact role, you will serve as a primary technical authority, guiding recruitment and placement strategies while navigating complex pre-employment requirements to ensure our agency maintains its mission of vigilance, service, and integrity.
Requirements for Lead Human Resources Specialist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
- Must meet U.S. residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. or territories for at least 3 of the last 5 years).
- Must be able to pass a comprehensive background investigation.
- Completion of a one-year probationary period is required for new federal hires.
- Must possess 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-12).
- All application materials must be submitted in English.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Human Resources Specialist
- Demonstrated ability to identify and resolve complex personnel and human resources interventions.
- Experience developing new or modified HR work methods and procedures.
- Proven track record in coaching teams on problem-solving techniques and task mastery.
- Expertise in applying complex qualification standards and ranking methods for applicant evaluation.
- Ability to provide leadership in assessing team strengths and weaknesses to improve organizational efficiency.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style retirement)
- ✓Flexible Spending Accounts
- ✓Employee Assistance Program
- ✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
- ✓Flexible work schedules and wellness programs
- ✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development
💡 How to Apply Lead Human Resources Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Human Resources Specialist Job
- Read the full announcement carefully to understand all eligibility requirements.
- Log into your USAJOBS account to start the application.
- Complete the mandatory online questionnaire and submit your resume.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Submit your package by the deadline: July 14, 2026, at 11:59 PM ET.
- Complete the USA Hire online assessments if notified via email.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be two pages or less and provided in PDF format for the best results.
- Clearly document your work history with dates (MM/DD/YY), hours worked per week, and grade level.
- Double-check your application for accuracy; HR cannot modify your submission once it is made.
- Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessments if required.
- Only claim eligibilities for which you can provide concrete documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of this Lead HR Specialist?
You will serve as a key technical authority managing pre-employment processes, developing HR policies, and coaching your team on complex personnel initiatives.
Is a background investigation required?
Yes, as a federal law enforcement agency, CBP requires a thorough background investigation to ensure the integrity of our workforce.
Can I use volunteer work to meet qualification requirements?
Yes, qualifying volunteer experience, including work through Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, is considered toward your overall experience.
What happens if I need testing accommodations?
You may request reasonable accommodations for assessments during the application process through the online portal.
Can I apply if I have worked in a political appointment?
Yes, but you must disclose your history as a political appointee according to OPM guidelines.
Job from Customs And Border Protection
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) works tirelessly to protect the United States from diverse threats. Within DHS, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is the frontline agency responsible for securing our borders, facilitating legitimate trade and travel, and enforcing hundreds of federal regulations. Working here means contributing to a mission-driven environment where your professional efforts directly support national safety.