Launch Your Federal Career: Administrative Support Assistant at Little River Canyon
Are you looking to balance a professional office career with the beauty of the outdoors? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently hiring an Administrative Support Assistant (OA) at the Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne, Alabama. This position is a gateway to the federal workforce, offering a stable environment and the opportunity to support the critical mission of preserving Americaβs cultural and natural heritage.
Job Responsibilities
As an Administrative Support Assistant, you will act as the backbone of the park's operations. Your daily tasks will vary but center on ensuring the administrative health of the preserve. Key responsibilities include:
- Providing administrative assistance with financial, procurement, and property management forms.
- Supporting human resources activities, such as coordinating new employee orientations and maintaining personnel files.
- Serving as a primary timekeeper and reviewing attendance reports for accuracy.
- Managing and composing vital correspondence, memoranda, and reports.
- Acting as a liaison with the Servicing Human Resources Office (SHRO).
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Administrative Support Assistant (OA) |
| Location | Fort Payne, Alabama |
| Salary Range | $47,290 β $68,317 per year |
| Hiring Agency | National Park Service |
| Schedule | Full-Time |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet specific eligibility and qualification criteria by the closing date of July 20, 2026:
- U.S. Citizenship: Required for all federal appointments.
- Experience: You must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-5 grade level for the GS-6 role, or the GS-6 level for the GS-7 role.
- Typing Proficiency: Candidates must show evidence of a 40 words per minute typing speed.
- Documentation: A resume detailing your work history and hours worked per week is mandatory. If you are a federal employee, you must submit an SF-50 documenting your status.
- Motor Vehicle: Because driving is required for official duties, you must hold a valid driver's license.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $47,290 to $68,317 depending on the grade level achieved (GS-6 or GS-7). Beyond the paycheck, federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- The Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- A generous leave system including annual and sick leave.
- Opportunities for flexible work arrangements, including telework options.
Application Tips
Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
- Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly reflects the number of hours worked per week for each role. If it is not stated, your experience may not be credited.
- Check Formatting: Keep your resume under two pages and strictly adhere to the required font size and margin requirements.
- Prepare for Assessments: If prompted, you must complete the USAHire assessments. Set aside at least three hours of uninterrupted time for this.
- Double Check Documents: Ensure all SF-50s or veterans' preference documentation are current and clearly show your tenure and series.
Joining the National Park Service is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the preservation of our nation's most valuable assets. If you are a detail-oriented professional ready to bring your administrative expertise to a dynamic federal environment in Fort Payne, apply today via the USAJobs portal.
Why This Administrative Support Assistant (Oa) Job Matters
Launch your career with the National Park Service in the heart of Alabama, where your organizational skills help protect our nation's most cherished landscapes.
Administrative Support Assistant (Oa) Job Overview
The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Administrative Support Assistant (OA) to join the team at the Little River Canyon National Preserve in Fort Payne, Alabama. In this role, you will play a pivotal part in the day-to-day operations of the park, providing essential administrative and human resources support that allows the preserve to fulfill its conservation and educational mission.
Requirements for Administrative Support Assistant (Oa)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Ability to type at least 40 words per minute
- Possession of a valid state driver's license
- Successful completion of a background/suitability investigation
- Registration with the Selective Service System (if applicable)
- Completion of the initial online assessment and potential USAHire assessments
- Submission of all required supporting documentation by the closing date
Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Support Assistant (Oa)
- Proven experience in federal administrative support at the GS-5 or GS-6 level
- Strong proficiency in financial, procurement, and property management systems
- Demonstrated expertise in HR administrative support, including personnel action tracking and timekeeping
- Ability to draft professional reports, memoranda, and complex work schedules
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive Federal Salary
- βComprehensive health and life insurance options
- βFederal retirement benefits (FERS)
- βPaid time off, including federal holidays and leave accrual
- βPotential for telework eligibility based on supervisory approval
- βOpportunities for professional development and career growth
π‘ How to Apply Administrative Support Assistant (Oa) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Administrative Support Assistant (Oa) Job
- Review the full job announcement carefully on USAJobs.
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, noting hours worked per week.
- Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button to start your application.
- Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documents.
- Monitor your email for a unique link to complete the USAHire assessments if required.
- Submit your final package by 11:59 PM (ET) on July 20, 2026.
π‘ General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly states hours worked per week to ensure your experience is credited properly.
- Check your resume for formatting: 10-point font or larger with 0.5-inch margins.
- If you are a federal employee, submit a non-award SF-50 to verify your grade and tenure.
- Complete your assessments as early as possible to avoid technical issues near the deadline.
- Avoid using Adobe portfolio documents, as they are not viewable by the hiring team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is telework allowed for this position?
Yes, the Little River Canyon National Preserve has determined this role is suitable for telework, subject to supervisor approval.
What is the minimum typing speed required?
All applicants must demonstrate a typing proficiency of at least 40 words per minute.
Can I substitute my education for experience?
No, at these grade levels, there is no substitution of education for the required specialized experience.
Is there an opportunity for promotion?
Yes, this position has promotion potential to the GS-7 level. Advancement is based on performance, availability of work, and supervisory recommendation.
What if I don't have my most recent performance appraisal?
You should include a written statement explaining why it is unavailable so that the hiring official is aware of your circumstances.
Job from National Park Service
The National Park Service, a bureau of the Department of the Interior, is dedicated to protecting the natural and cultural resources of the National Park System. By working at the Little River Canyon National Preserve, you become part of a team that ensures these public lands remain vibrant and accessible for current and future generations. The NPS values diversity, unique perspectives, and a commitment to public service.
External Resources
- β USAJobs Application Portal
- β OPM Qualification Standards
- β Selective Service System
- β DHS E-Verify
- β Preview Application Questionnaire
- β USA Hire Applicant Resource Center
- β Application Status Help
- β Veterans Affairs Records
- β NPS Benefits Page
- β Apply Online
- β Check Application Status
