Launch Your Financial Career with NOAA: Accountant Position

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) plays an indispensable role in the United States, providing the weather forecasts, climate data, and environmental monitoring that power our economy and protect our citizens. Behind the high-tech sensors and research vessels is a dedicated team of administrative and financial professionals who ensure the agency remains fiscally sound. We are currently seeking a highly qualified Accountant to join the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS).

Job Responsibilities

As an Accountant within the NESDIS Office of Low Earth Observations (LEO), you will perform critical financial functions, including:

Project Management: Managing Construction in Progress (CIP) and Internal Use Software Development (IUSD) accounts.
Auditing & Compliance: Responding to internal and external audit inquiries and ensuring compliance with federal standards (OMB, GAO, FASAB).
Reporting: Formulating and presenting detailed financial reports to leadership.
Technical Analysis: Researching and recommending accounting treatments for new or complex financial transactions.
Internal Controls: Strengthening the control environment by identifying weaknesses and implementing corrective plans.

Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Accountant Roles

Feature	Commercial Accountant	Federal Accountant (NOAA)
Scope	Private Profit/Loss	Public Fiscal Accountability
Regulatory Body	GAAP/IFRS	FASAB/OMB Standards
Job Security	Market Dependent	Tenure-based (Federal)
Benefits	Varies	Comprehensive Federal Benefits

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria defined by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management:

Educational Foundation: A degree in accounting, or a related field with 24 semester hours of accounting coursework.
Professional Experience: One full year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower federal grade.
Compliance: Must be a U.S. citizen and successfully undergo a moderate-risk background investigation.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary range of $106,437 to $187,093 per year, depending on the specific location and experience level.

Benefits

Employees of the Department of Commerce enjoy a robust suite of benefits, including:

Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
A generous leave policy (vacation and sick time).
Participation in the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).

Application Tips

Respect the Limit: Keep your resume to two pages; no exceptions.
Act Quickly: With a 150-applicant cap, submit your materials as soon as the portal opens.
Use the Builder: Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure you provide all required details, such as grade, series, and hours per week.

If you are an accounting professional looking to apply your skills to a mission that literally impacts the nation’s future, NOAA is the place for you. Prepare your application, ensure all transcripts are in order, and submit your materials promptly to be considered for this vital role.

Why This Accountant Job Matters

Launch your federal finance career with NOAA! Help secure the future of environmental data through expert financial stewardship.

Accountant Job Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a detail-oriented Accountant to join the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS). In this role, you will play a vital part in managing the financial integrity of satellite and environmental data projects. You will be responsible for overseeing Construction in Progress (CIP) and Internal Use Software Development (IUSD) accounts, ensuring fiscal compliance, and providing actionable financial analysis to support the agency's critical mission of enriching life through science.

Requirements for Accountant

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Completion of a degree in accounting or a related business field with at least 24 semester hours in accounting (may include up to 6 hours of business law).
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower federal grade level.
Must be suitable for Federal employment, verified through a background investigation.
Registration for Selective Service if applicable.
Submission of college transcripts detailing all relevant coursework.
Ability to obtain and maintain a Moderate Risk Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Accountant

Certified Public Accountant (CPA) certification.
Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) designation.
Demonstrated experience in federal financial reporting and compliance.
Proficiency in analyzing complex financial ledger data.
Experience with Construction in Progress (CIP) accounting.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
✓Federal retirement benefits (FERS)
✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment)
✓Paid federal holidays
✓Generous vacation and sick leave accrual
✓Flexible work options including potential telework

💡 How to Apply Accountant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Accountant Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Draft a concise, two-page resume highlighting your relevant accounting experience.
Gather your college transcripts and, if applicable, your DD-214 for veterans' preference.
Navigate to the vacancy link and click 'Apply Online'.
Complete the required questionnaire and upload your documentation.
Submit your application package before the 150-applicant limit or the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Limit your resume to strictly two pages; applications exceeding this length will be excluded.
Utilize the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all federal requirements are met.
Apply early! This announcement is capped at the first 150 applicants.
Clearly label part-time work with the number of hours worked per week.
Ensure your email remains active and monitored throughout the entire hiring cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application limit for this position?

This announcement is limited to the first 150 applications received. It may close early if this threshold is met.

Can I use foreign education for this position?

Yes, but you must provide a formal equivalency evaluation from an accredited organization as part of your application.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this role requires a Moderate Risk Security Clearance and a favorable background investigation.

Do I need a CPA?

While not strictly required, a CPA is highly valued as it often satisfies the specialized knowledge requirements.

Is relocation assistance offered?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA is a premier scientific agency under the Department of Commerce. From the deepest ocean depths to the outer reaches of the atmosphere, NOAA’s products and services affect one-third of America's GDP. Joining NESDIS means working at the nexus of technology and data, where your financial expertise helps sustain the agency's mission to provide reliable environmental intelligence.