Lead Innovation and Oversight: Director of Acquisition and Grants at NOAA
Are you an experienced executive ready to influence the strategic direction of one of the nation's most vital science organizations? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is inviting applications for the position of Director of the Acquisition and Grants Office (AGO). This leadership role is designed for a seasoned professional with a passion for efficiency, public service, and the complex logistical support required to maintain America's high-tech scientific infrastructure.
Job Responsibilities
The Director serves as the primary advisor to the NOAA Under Secretary and Deputy Under Secretary. Your core responsibilities include:
- Policy Oversight: Developing and managing policies for acquisitions and financial assistance programs.
- Budget Management: Overseeing a significant budget of $40 million to ensure fiscal responsibility.
- Procurement Leadership: Managing the acquisition of high-technology equipment, including research vessels, aircraft, and advanced data processing software.
- Administrative Excellence: Driving a high-performance culture that emphasizes accountability, merit, and adherence to federal law.
| Responsibility Area | Focus |
|---|---|
| Strategic Planning | Budget oversight and policy formulation |
| Procurement | Ships, satellites, and scientific technology |
| Compliance | Federal contract regulations and grant management |
| Leadership | Managing cross-functional teams in a high-accountability environment |
Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered for this high-level position, you must demonstrate mastery of the Senior Executive Service (SES) standards. Your two-page resume is the most critical component of your application. You must highlight your accomplishments related to the five Executive Core Qualifications:
- Commitment to the Rule of Law and the American Founding
- Driving Efficiency
- Merit and Competence
- Leading People
- Achieving Results
Candidates must also satisfy the Technical Qualifications (PTQs), which include knowledge of acquisition statutes and the ability to manage complex interagency agreements.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $151,661 to $228,000 per year. Beyond the compensation, you will have access to a robust suite of federal benefits, including comprehensive health coverage, life insurance, and a generous retirement plan through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Serving as the Director of the Acquisition and Grants Office is a unique opportunity to shape the future of federal procurement. If you are prepared to lead with integrity and drive results in a high-stakes environment, we encourage you to submit your application to NOAA today.
Why This Director Acquisition And Grants Office Job Matters
Lead the future of federal acquisitions and grants at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as a Senior Executive.
Director Acquisition And Grants Office Job Overview
The Acquisition and Grants Office (AGO) at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a visionary Director to provide high-level policy guidance and operational oversight. This pivotal Senior Executive Service (SES) role reports directly to the Deputy Under Secretary for Operations and serves as the primary advisor on a multi-million dollar portfolio encompassing scientific research, advanced technology procurement, and federal grant management.
Requirements for Director Acquisition And Grants Office
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a resume limited to exactly two pages.
- Completion of mandatory training for GS-13 or higher contracting positions.
- A bachelor's degree with 24 semester hours in accounting, business, finance, law, or related fields.
- Demonstrated ability to meet all five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs).
- Registration with the Selective Service System if born after December 31, 1959.
- Completion of a Public Financial Disclosure Report (OGE-278e).
Preferred Qualifications for Director Acquisition And Grants Office
- Proven executive-level experience in interagency agreements and technology transfers.
- Expertise in business and financial management systems within the federal sector.
- Current or former SES status with OPM-certified qualifications.
- Graduation from an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Professional development and executive training opportunities.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options.
💡 How to Apply Director Acquisition And Grants Office Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Director Acquisition And Grants Office Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Draft a resume specifically highlighting your experience, education, and accomplishments in two pages or less.
- Ensure your resume addresses the five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the two Professional/Technical Qualifications (PTQs) through concrete examples.
- Collect all supporting documentation, including transcripts and applicable SF-50 forms.
- Upload all documents to the USAJOBS portal.
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Strictly adhere to the two-page resume limit; documents exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Avoid using the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload a custom document formatted to meet the specific requirements.
- Do not provide separate narrative statements for ECQs; integrate these competencies directly into your two-page resume.
- Ensure all educational credentials are verified or accompanied by foreign credential evaluations if applicable.
- Review your application status via your USAJOBS account dashboard for updates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the resume page limit for this position?
You must limit your resume to exactly two pages. Applications exceeding this limit will not be reviewed.
Do I need to submit separate narratives for the ECQs?
No. The agency specifically requests that you do not submit separate narratives. You must demonstrate your competencies in the ECQs and PTQs directly within the body of your two-page resume.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position is designated as Critical-Sensitive and requires a Top Secret security clearance.
Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration
NOAA is an integral part of the Department of Commerce, responsible for critical services that support the American economy and safety. From forecasting severe storms to managing marine resources and supporting global climate monitoring, NOAA’s mission touches nearly every aspect of American life. The Acquisition and Grants Office acts as the backbone of these efforts, ensuring that scientists and managers have the technology, supplies, and partnerships required to produce world-class data.