Leading Civilian Human Resources for the Department of the Navy

The Department of the Navy is looking for an accomplished executive to serve as the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR) Director for Human Resources Operations. This is a rare opportunity to join the Senior Executive Service (SES), a cohort of leaders responsible for guiding the direction, innovation, and transformation of the federal government. If you are passionate about public service and possess the strategic foresight to lead a diverse civilian workforce, this role at the Washington Navy Yard offers a significant platform for impact.

Job Responsibilities

As the OCHR Director, you will hold delegated authority to appoint civilian employees and authorize personnel actions. Your core duties include:

Operational Excellence: Overseeing the technical and administrative functions of OCHR Operations Centers.
Customer Engagement: Creating department-wide strategies to improve interaction quality and responsiveness.
Data-Driven Leadership: Implementing business analytics and metrics to ensure cost-efficiency and service effectiveness.
Policy Implementation: Leading the evaluation and deployment of new HR technologies and program enhancements.
Culture Building: Maintaining a work environment free from discrimination that upholds merit system principles.

Requirements

Success in this role requires meeting high standards of executive and technical competency. Your application must demonstrate:

Technical Qualifications: Experience in managing broad-scope HR operations and mastery of Federal HR/EEO regulations.
Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs): Demonstrated expertise in Leading People, Driving Efficiency, and Achieving Results.
Documentation: A resume strictly limited to 2 pages.

Requirements Comparison Table

Qualification Type	Key Focus Area	Requirement Status
Technical	HR Ops/Scope	Mandatory
ECQ	Driving Efficiency	Mandatory
ECQ	Leading People	Mandatory
Education	Relevant Degree	Supported as needed

Salary Overview

This position is classified within the Senior Executive Service, with a competitive salary range of $199,172 to $228,000 per year.

Benefits

Employees of the Department of the Navy enjoy a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

High-quality health, vision, and dental insurance.
Federal retirement contributions and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Professional development tailored to senior executives.
Potential relocation incentives to assist with professional transitions.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances, adhere strictly to the 2-page resume limit. The recruiters will focus on your ability to synthesize your accomplishments into a concise, high-impact narrative. Ensure you explicitly address the five ECQs required for SES positions, as these are critical to your assessment.

Serving as the OCHR Director for the Department of the Navy is a pinnacle career move for an HR professional. By bridging organizational strategy with operational excellence, you will influence the future of the federal workforce. Review the requirements carefully and submit your application via USAJOBS by August 11, 2026.

Why This Office Of Civilian Human Resources Director, Human Resources Operations Job Matters

Shape the future of the Department of the Navy as a Senior Executive leader, driving excellence in human resources operations and organizational strategy.

Office Of Civilian Human Resources Director, Human Resources Operations Job Overview

The Department of the Navy (DON) is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Office of Civilian Human Resources (OCHR) Director for Human Resources Operations. Based at the historic Washington Navy Yard, this Senior Executive Service (SES) role is pivotal in managing enterprise-wide HR programs, optimizing workforce competency, and leading large-scale organizational transformations. You will report directly to the Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Civilian Personnel), steering the agency’s HR initiatives to ensure mission success through operational efficiency and strategic excellence.

Requirements for Office Of Civilian Human Resources Director, Human Resources Operations

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
Submission of a concise resume (strictly limited to 2 pages).
Demonstration of Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and Technical Qualifications (TQs).
Must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of the announcement.
Successful completion of a one-year probationary period upon appointment.
Financial disclosure reporting may be required.

Preferred Qualifications for Office Of Civilian Human Resources Director, Human Resources Operations

Prior experience as a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES) or successful completion of an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP).
Extensive experience managing complex HR operations within a large-scale organization.
Demonstrated mastery of Federal HR and EEO regulatory frameworks.
Proven track record in deploying data-driven business analytics to improve service delivery.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary package.
✓Comprehensive health insurance and life insurance options.
✓Federal retirement benefits.
✓Professional development and executive training opportunities.
✓Potential for relocation incentives for eligible candidates.
✓Meaningful work supporting the Navy and Marine Corps mission.

💡 How to Apply Office Of Civilian Human Resources Director, Human Resources Operations Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Office Of Civilian Human Resources Director, Human Resources Operations Job

Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages, detailing your experience regarding ECQs and TQs.
Log in to your USAJOBS account to access the online application system.
Complete the required assessment questionnaire integrated into the portal.
Upload all necessary supporting documents, including SF-50s or transcripts if applicable.
Review your application package for accuracy and completeness before final submission.
Submit your application no later than 11:59 PM EST on August 11, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Do not use the USAJOBS Resume Builder; upload your custom 2-page resume.
Ensure your narrative clearly addresses both the ECQs and TQs as requested.
Avoid exceeding the 2-page limit, as additional pages may not be reviewed.
Submit your documents well in advance of the deadline to account for system processing times.
If you are a current or former SES member, ensure your SF-50 documentation is included to verify eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Senior Executive Service (SES)?

The SES is a elite group of federal leaders who hold high-level positions just below the top political appointees. They are responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of federal departments and agencies.

Is a cover letter required?

A cover letter is optional; however, your application must include a 2-page resume that explicitly addresses the required ECQs and TQs.

Can I submit my application via email?

No. All applications must be submitted via the online USAJOBS portal. Hard copies or emailed resumes will be destroyed and not considered.

What is the security clearance level required?

This position requires a Secret level clearance.

Can I apply if I am not currently an SES member?

Yes, the role is open to applicants who meet the qualification standards, though non-SES members will undergo a qualification review process by the OPM's Qualifications Review Board (QRB) upon selection.

Job from Secretary Of The Navy Offices (Secnav)

The Department of the Navy (DON) is a powerhouse of innovation, linking military and civilian talent to safeguard national freedoms. With a focus on purpose and patriotism, the agency provides a challenging environment where professionals—from scientists to administrative experts—work together toward a common goal. As part of the OCHR, you will play a key role in ensuring that the DON has the human capital necessary to execute its vital national security mission.