Lead Financial Systems Specialist: Build a Rewarding Federal Career with DFAS
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is currently looking for an experienced and driven professional to serve as a Lead Financial Systems Specialist. This position offers a unique opportunity to lead financial technology initiatives within the Department of Defense. If you possess a deep understanding of automated payroll systems and the desire to drive efficiency in a high-stakes environment, this role is designed for you.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Financial Systems Specialist, you will wear many hats, including technical advisor and project lead. Your core duties will involve:
- Monitoring and reporting on the status and progress of system development work.
- Providing expert analysis for the execution of complex project management plans.
- Analyzing data requirements to enhance automated financial management systems.
- Overseeing rigorous testing of system changes and implementation of new products.
- Preparing and managing System Change Requests.
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-13 level position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Specialized Experience: You must have at least one year of experience equivalent to the GS-12 level in the federal service. This experience must clearly demonstrate your capability to manage financial systems analysis and payroll automation.
- Technical Proficiency: You must have a background in test planning, evaluation, and system development.
- Security Clearance: You must be able to obtain and maintain a noncritical-sensitive security clearance.
Comparison Table: Role Requirements vs. Expectations
| Feature | Requirement / Expectation |
|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-13 |
| Citizenship | Required |
| Travel Requirement | Seldom |
| Education Substitution | Not Allowed |
| Probationary Period | 1 Year Required |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $107,428 to $139,658 per year. Pay for first-time federal hires is typically set at the Step 1 level for the grade.
Benefits
DFAS provides a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Relocation assistance for qualified candidates.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Use your two-page resume to explicitly detail how your past projects align with the specialized experience requirements.
- Stay Organized: Track your application status directly through the USAJOBS portal.
- Check Eligibility: Visit the DFAS careers page to verify your appointment eligibility before applying.
The role of Lead Financial Systems Specialist at DFAS is more than just a job; it is a critical contribution to the financial health of the Department of Defense. We encourage all qualified professionals who are ready to take the next step in their career to submit their application before the deadline.
Why This Lead Financial Systems Specialist Job Matters
Elevate your career by shaping the future of DoD financial systems at the Defense Finance and Accounting Service.
Lead Financial Systems Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is seeking a highly skilled Lead Financial Systems Specialist. This role is pivotal in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of our automated civilian payroll systems. You will serve as a senior technical advisor, providing crucial guidance on system analysis, development, and testing to ensure our operations meet the highest standards of the Department of Defense.
Requirements for Lead Financial Systems Specialist
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level or equivalent.
- Expertise in financial systems analysis, design, development, testing, and support for automated payroll systems.
- Proven ability to ensure system modifications comply with standard finance and accounting practices.
- Experience in developing and executing comprehensive test plans and evaluating results for corrective action.
- Must be a U.S. citizen and successfully pass a background investigation for a noncritical-sensitive position.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Financial Systems Specialist
- Experience in configuration control and project management for large-scale financial information systems.
- Strong technical leadership skills with a proven track record of managing project plans.
- Excellent communication skills for stakeholder reporting and technical analysis.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Relocation expenses paid for eligible candidates.
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays, vacation time, and sick leave.
- ✓Access to ongoing professional development and specialized training programs.
- ✓Opportunities to serve in an mission-critical agency supporting the Department of Defense.
💡 How to Apply Lead Financial Systems Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Financial Systems Specialist Job
- Register or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume (maximum two pages) clearly documenting specialized experience.
- Click the Apply Online button and complete the initial eligibility questionnaire.
- Submit all required documentation, including SF-50 if applicable.
- Complete the required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments if prompted via email link.
- Monitor your application status within the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically highlights how your experience matches the GS-12 level requirements.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessments once you receive your link.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Verify that your SF-50, if required, clearly shows your highest grade held for at least 52 weeks.
- Check your application status regularly in the USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can education substitute for the required specialized experience?
No, education cannot be substituted for specialized experience for this specific grade level.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Telework is limited and provided only on a rare, case-by-case basis when deemed a compelling need by Agency Leadership.
What happens if I cannot complete the security background investigation?
This position requires a favorable security determination; failure to obtain or maintain this may result in the withdrawal of an offer or termination.
What are the primary locations?
Positions are available in Indianapolis, Indiana, and Cleveland, Ohio.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes, this position requires a noncritical-sensitive security clearance to handle sensitive financial data.
Job from Defense Finance And Accounting Service
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is the primary financial provider for the Department of Defense. Our mission is to ensure that the personnel who defend our nation are paid accurately and on time, while maintaining the highest levels of transparency and financial integrity. We are a team of dedicated professionals committed to excellence, innovation, and service.