Become a Leader in Facility Operations at Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist to oversee the maintenance, engineering, and construction functions of the park. This is a unique opportunity to apply your technical leadership skills within one of the most visited locations in the National Park Service (NPS). If you have a background in construction, project management, and facility planning, this role offers a pathway to impactful public service.

Job Responsibilities

As a Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist, your daily work will revolve around maintaining the physical integrity of park facilities. Key responsibilities include:

Project Management: Overseeing engineering and architectural planning for new and existing structures.
Contract Administration: Serving as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) for design and construction contracts.
Financial Planning: Developing Independent Government Cost Estimates and Scopes of Work.
Facility Maintenance: Implementing preventive maintenance programs to ensure longevity and safety.

Requirements

To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level.
Probationary Period: Successful completion of a one-year probationary period.
Compliance: Ability to pass a background check and maintain a valid driver's license.

Requirements Comparison Table

Criteria	Requirement Type
Citizenship	Mandatory (U.S.)
Experience	1 Year at GS-11 Equivalent
Education	None (Experience Required)
License	Valid Driver's License
Financial	OGE Form 450 Disclosure Required

Salary Overview

The salary for this position is established by the General Schedule (GS) pay scale and ranges from $89,508 to $116,362 per year. Starting salary will be determined based on your qualifications and federal employment history.

Benefits

Employees of the National Park Service enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:

Competitive health insurance and retirement plans (FERS).
Paid vacation and sick leave.
Professional development and training programs.
Uniform allowance for official duties.
Opportunities for telework.

Application Tips

Customize Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience with construction oversight and facility systems. Do not exceed the two-page limit.
Documentation is Key: Submit all required SF-50 forms and your most recent performance appraisal to prevent delays.
Clearance and Suitability: Be honest in your background check documentation to avoid disqualification.
Review Before Submission: Double-check your application for missing attachments or improperly formatted documents.

Serving as a Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist in the Great Smoky Mountains is more than a job—it is a responsibility to protect our national heritage. If you meet the qualifications and are ready to lead, we encourage you to submit your application today.

Why This Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist Job Matters

Shape the future of America's most beloved landscapes while leading complex facility operations at the iconic Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist Job Overview

The National Park Service is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist to join the team in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. In this pivotal GS-12 role, you will provide critical leadership in engineering, construction oversight, and maintenance management, ensuring that the infrastructure of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park meets the highest standards for preservation and visitor experience. You will serve as a project management expert, overseeing contracts and facility planning initiatives while driving organizational efficiency.

Requirements for Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Must complete a one-year probationary period for new federal supervisors.
Must maintain a valid driver's license and submit a certified driving record.
Must be able to successfully complete a background investigation.
Must adhere to the National Park Service uniform standards.
Must file a new entrant Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE Form 450).
Must meet all time-in-grade requirements if currently holding a General Schedule position.

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist

Direct experience in managing maintenance for hospitals, recreation facilities, or large office complexes.
Proven proficiency with Facility Management Software Systems (FMSS).
Demonstrated ability in developing Independent Government Cost Estimates and Statements of Work.
Extensive experience serving as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR) on construction projects.
Strong background in building trade practices, design development, and construction site inspection.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Uniform allowance provided.
✓Telework eligibility as approved by supervision.
✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Opportunities for professional training and development.
✓Relocation incentive potential for eligible candidates moving over 50 miles.

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Facility Operations Specialist Job

Review the full vacancy announcement on USAJobs.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two single-sided pages, including specific hours worked per week.
Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50s, performance appraisals, and military records (DD-214) if applicable.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Submit your application package via the USAJobs portal before the deadline of July 28, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume explicitly states your work hours (e.g., '40 hours per week') to receive full credit for experience.
Use the exact terminology related to the required competencies to ensure your application passes the automated screening.
Avoid uploading Adobe portfolio files as they are not readable by the hiring software.
Remove all photos from your documents, including images on scanned IDs or badges.
Submit your application well before the deadline to account for potential technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is telework allowed for this position?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework subject to supervisor approval.

Can I substitute my education for the required experience?

No, at the GS-12 grade level, there is no substitution of education for the required specialized experience.

What happens if I forget to submit my performance appraisal?

Failure to submit required documents, including your most recent performance appraisal, may result in your application being rated as incomplete or ineligible.

What is the closing date for this announcement?

*A: The application period closes on July 28, 2026.*

Do I need to be a current federal employee to apply?

*A: No, the position is open to various hiring paths including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Check the USAJobs posting for specific eligibility details.*

Job from National Park Service

The National Park Service (NPS), an agency within the U.S. Department of the Interior, is dedicated to preserving the unimpaired natural and cultural resources and values of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of this and future generations. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park team provides a dynamic environment where infrastructure stability is essential to protecting the natural beauty of the landscape.