Become a Budget Officer for the Administration for Children and Families

Are you a financial expert looking to apply your skills toward a greater purpose? The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is currently seeking a talented and strategic Budget Officer to join the Administration for Children and Families (ACF) in Washington, D.C. This role is a vital pillar of the agency, ensuring that resources are effectively managed to support programs that touch the lives of millions of Americans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Budget Officer, you are more than just a numbers expert; you are a strategic partner to the agency's leadership. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Technical Authority: Acting as the primary lead for the planning, justification, and execution of multi-million-dollar program budgets.
Executive Advisory: Providing high-level insights to the Commissioner and Executive Officer regarding fiscal policy and resource allocation.
Budget Formulation: Assembling complex budget requests, congressional justifications, and hearing testimony to ensure the agency's goals are fully funded.
Financial Compliance: Overseeing budget execution, including reprogramming, allotments, and ensuring strict adherence to the Anti-Deficiency Act.

Requirements

Candidates must demonstrate specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level in the federal service. We are looking for individuals who can prove they have managed complex financial programs and provided high-level fiscal advice. Your application must clearly outline your professional duties, including start and end dates (MM/YY) for each position.

Skills Comparison Table

Competency	Importance
Strategic Budgeting	High
Appropriations Law	High
Executive Advisory	High
Data Analysis	Medium
Problem Solving	Medium

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $143,913 to $187,093 per year. Beyond the paycheck, employees enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB)
Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
Generous Paid Time Off (Vacation and Sick Leave)
Potential for recruitment/relocation incentives

Application Tips

This position is highly competitive. To ensure your application stands out:

Follow Page Limits: Your resume must be two pages or fewer.
Be Specific: Quantify your achievements. Mention specific budget sizes and the impact of your financial strategy.
Complete the Assessment: You will be prompted to take a USA Hire Assessment. Do not delay, as it is a required part of the evaluation process.

If you are ready to take the next step in your financial career and want to support a mission that truly matters, apply for the Budget Officer position with the ACF today. Your expertise can help ensure that critical public health and family support programs have the resources they need to thrive.

Why This Budget Officer Job Matters

Shape the future of children and families by overseeing multi-million-dollar budgets at the heart of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Budget Officer Job Overview

The Administration for Children, Youth and Families (ACYF) is seeking an experienced Budget Officer to serve as a key technical authority in Washington, D.C. In this high-impact role, you will lead the planning, formulation, and execution of significant program budgets, serving as a senior advisor to executive leadership on fiscal strategy and appropriations law.

Requirements for Budget Officer

One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-13 grade level in the federal service.
Proven experience directing complex federal budget and financial management programs involving multi-million-dollar budgets.
Experience advising senior leadership on budget policy, appropriations law, and resource allocation.
Proficiency in developing congressional budget justifications, hearing testimony, and spending plans.
Expertise in financial monitoring, reconciliation, and ensuring compliance with the Anti-Deficiency Act and federal regulations.
Completion of required USA Hire Assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Budget Officer

Demonstrated ability to synthesize financial and program data for strategic decision-making.
Strong background in directing reprogramming actions and fund allotments.
Prior experience serving as a technical authority for a federal agency's budgetary operations.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively manage relationships with OMB, Congress, and stakeholders.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
✓Competitive salary range within the federal pay scale.
✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives based on availability.
✓Flexible work arrangements including telework eligibility.

💡 How to Apply Budget Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Budget Officer Job

Log in to or create a USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages, detailing your specialized experience with exact dates and hours.
Complete the occupational questionnaire provided via the application link.
Submit your resume and supporting documentation (e.g., SF-50) through the online application portal.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessment within the specified timeline upon notification.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all necessary data points are included.
Be specific about your accomplishments; avoid copying and pasting duties directly from the job announcement.
Ensure your resume clearly articulates how your experience meets the GS-13 equivalent criteria.
Monitor your email for the USA Hire assessment invitation and complete it promptly.
Submit your application early, as the announcement may close early once 100 applications are received.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum length allowed for the resume?

Your resume must not exceed two pages in length.

How does the application limit work?

The job announcement will close automatically either on the closing date of 07/24/2026 or whenever 100 applications have been received, whichever occurs first.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position is categorized as High Risk and involves suitability/fitness and national security adjudication.

Can I apply if I don't have federal experience?

*A: Yes, provided your private sector or volunteer experience aligns with the specialized duties of the role at the required level.*

What is the hiring process timeline?

*A: We aim to make a selection within 45 days of the closing date, with notification provided to all applicants.*

Job from Administration For Children And Families

The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) is a division of the Department of Health and Human Services. ACF is dedicated to promoting the economic and social well-being of families, children, and communities. By joining the ACF team, you contribute to a mission-driven organization that works 24/7 to protect the nation's health and provide a safety net for those who need it most.