Launch Your Federal Career as an HR Specialist in Employee Benefits

Are you a dedicated professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Department of the Navy is currently hiring a Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits) at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. This role is a cornerstone of the Civilian Benefits Center, ensuring that our essential civilian staff receive the support and guidance they need regarding their retirement and benefits packages.

Job Responsibilities

As a specialist, you will be the primary point of contact for civilian employees navigating complex benefits information. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Benefits Counseling: Provide expert guidance on retirement and benefits programs.
Regulatory Guidance: Interpret and apply federal laws to ensure compliance in all recommendations.
Mentorship: Train and mentor junior staff members on best practices.
Training: Conduct formal briefings and retirement seminars.
Troubleshooting: Act as the primary resource for resolving complex benefits-related issues.

Comparison: Standard vs. Specialized Requirements

Feature	Requirement
Experience	1 Year of specialized HR experience
Education	Graduate degree or superior academic achievement
Assessment	USA Hire completion required
Resume Limit	2 Pages maximum

Requirements

To qualify, you must possess at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-05 level or equivalent. This includes verifying documentation for retirement eligibility, utilizing automated personnel systems, and researching federal regulations. Applicants must be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessment process to verify their competencies in customer service and problem-solving.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position ranges from $51,210 to $66,574 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the Navy provides a robust federal benefits package, including:

Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
Generous retirement savings through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
Professional development programs that foster long-term growth.

Application Tips

Success in federal hiring depends on your attention to detail. Keep your resume under two pages and ensure every entry includes dates of employment and hours per week. If you are using education to qualify, attach your transcripts immediately—missing documents are the most common reason for disqualification.

Joining the Department of the Navy as an HR Specialist is more than just a job; it is a commitment to supporting those who protect our nation. If you have the skills and the drive to excel, we encourage you to apply and become part of our civilian mission.

Why This Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job Matters

Launch a meaningful career with the Department of the Navy, where your expertise in employee benefits directly supports the personnel who safeguard our nation's freedom.

Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job Overview

The Office of Civilian Human Resources Operations is seeking a dedicated Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits) to join the team at the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. In this role, you will act as a subject matter expert, providing crucial retirement and benefits counseling, mentoring junior staff, and ensuring that our workforce receives accurate guidance on their federal benefits packages. This position offers a unique opportunity to blend administrative precision with human-centric service in a high-impact environment.

Requirements for Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits)

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-05 grade level.
Proven experience in federal retirement and benefits programs.
Ability to utilize automated data systems for personnel actions.
Strong research skills regarding federal laws and regulations.
Successful completion of designated USA Hire assessments.
U.S. Citizenship is required.

Preferred Qualifications for Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits)

Experience providing formal benefits and retirement briefings.
Demonstrated ability to mentor and train staff members.
Superior academic achievement or graduate-level education.
Experience in troubleshooting complex benefits issues.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and advancement opportunities.
✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
✓Federal retirement benefits, including TSP matching.
✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Telework eligibility options.

💡 How to Apply Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Human Resources Specialist (Employee Benefits) Job

Create or update your profile on USAJOBS.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
Complete the online questionnaire and attach all required documentation.
Submit your application through the official portal by the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to the required USA Hire assessments.
Complete the assessment within 48 hours of notification.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise and focused on relevant experience—do not exceed the 2-page limit.
Ensure your resume includes employer names, dates of employment (Mo/Yr), and hours worked per week.
Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder for a format that captures all necessary federal requirements.
Double-check that all SF-50s or transcripts are attached to avoid an ineligible rating.
Set aside at least two hours in a quiet space to complete the USA Hire assessment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit a resume longer than 2 pages?

No, resumes are strictly limited to a maximum of 2 pages. Any submission exceeding this length may not be considered.

What should I do if I have questions about the application?

For any assistance or questions, please email the Department of the Navy Employment Information Center at [email protected].

Are telework options available?

Yes, this position is telework eligible, subject to agency policy and supervisory approval.

Is a security clearance required?

*A: Yes, this position requires a Secret level security clearance.*

Can I update my application after submission?

*A: Yes, you can edit your application via USAJOBS as long as the announcement is still open.*

Job from Secretary Of The Navy Offices (Secnav)

The Office of Civilian Human Resources Operations (OCHRO) serves as the backbone of the Department of the Navy's workforce management. Our mission is to link military and civilian talents to safeguard national security. When you work with us, you aren't just filling a position—you are contributing to a legacy of purpose, patriotism, and professional excellence.