Discover a Rewarding Leadership Path: Lead Human Resources Specialist (NF-04) at Fort Stewart
In the realm of federal service, few roles offer the direct, rewarding impact of supporting those who defend our nation. The Department of the Army relies heavily on a highly capable workforce of civilian professionals to maintain the operational readiness and high morale of its military personnel and their families. At the heart of this support structure is the US Army Civilian Human Resources Agency (CHRA).
Currently, CHRA has an immediate opening for a Lead Human Resources Specialist (NF-04) at the prestigious Fort Stewart military installation in Georgia. This position represents a premier career opportunity for seasoned human resources professionals who possess a strong command of Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) regulations, leadership capabilities, and a passion for community service. If you are ready to guide a talented team and streamline human resources operations that directly benefit military youth programs, this role offers the professional growth and competitive compensation you have been seeking.
About the Agency: US Army Civilian Human Resources Agency (CHRA)
The US Army Civilian Human Resources Agency (CHRA) serves as the sole provider of civilian human resources services for the Department of the Army. Delivering comprehensive HR solutions worldwide, CHRA ensures that the Army's civilian workforce is recruited, developed, and sustained to the highest standards.
This specific vacancy is located within the CHRA G-9 Child and Youth Service Center (C2SC) at Fort Stewart, Georgia. The Child and Youth Services (CYS) program is a critical component of the Army's Family and Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) network. CYS provides affordable, high-quality childcare, developmental programs, and recreational services to military families. By leading the HR team that recruits, retains, and manages CYS personnel, you will directly influence the quality of care provided to the children of our service members, helping them stay focused on their mission with peace of mind.
Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Human Resources Specialist (NF-04), you will not merely manage paperwork; you will be the driving force behind operational excellence. You will oversee a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) HR team, implementing strategic work plans and ensuring that all organizational initiatives align with both local and national targets.
Your core daily responsibilities will include:
- Team Leadership: Directing a dedicated NAF HR team, distributing work assignments, planning operational workflows, and developing strategic plans within your assigned NAF division.
- Regulatory Compliance: Ensuring that all hiring, staffing, and employee relation practices conform perfectly to federal statutes, statutory requirements, and specialized military regulations.
- Mentorship and Training: Conducting regular training sessions, onboarding new team members, and offering expert guidance regarding complex work procedures, operational policy updates, and industry best practices.
- Client Relations: Serving as the primary point of contact for internal customers, civilian employees, and prospective job applicants, handling inquiries and resolving disputes with a high degree of professionalism.
- Data Analysis & Reporting: Generating, analyzing, and synthesizing productivity and performance metrics. You will transform raw data into visual presentations and executive briefings designed to pinpoint workflow bottlenecks and operational areas ripe for optimization.
Salary Overview and Compensation
The Lead Human Resources Specialist position is classified under the NF-04 pay band, offering a highly competitive annual salary range of $61,722 to $74,678.
This position utilizes a "pay band" system rather than the traditional General Schedule (GS) structure. This allows for flexibility in compensation based on your unique experience and qualifications. It is important to note that incentives, recruitment bonuses, and Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation costs are not authorized for this recruitment action. Non-foreign area allowances, such as Cost of Living Allowences (COLA) or local differentials, will not be paid.
To help you visualize how this career opportunity stacks up, examine the comparison table below:
| Feature / Parameter | Standard Minimum Requirements | Highly Preferred Candidates |
|---|---|---|
| Required NAF Experience | 18 Months of federal NAF HR experience | 12 Months of specialized NAF Child & Youth Program HR experience |
| Technical Competencies | Basic MS Office proficiency | Advanced knowledge of system tools like Cognos & Business Objects |
| Core Required Training | Demonstrated equivalent to NF-03 band | Certified in Staffing, Customer Service, and Org Structure |
| Leadership Background | Prior experience leading teams or delivering briefings | Strong experience in workload distribution and strategic training |
| Resume Requirement | 2 pages or less, saved as a PDF | 2 pages or less, explicitly detailing CYP program support |
Key Job Requirements and Qualifications
To be considered a qualified candidate for this position, your resume must clearly substantiate the following minimum criteria:
- Federal NAF Experience: You must possess at least eighteen (18) months of professional experience in a federal HR office (or equivalent) demonstrating deep familiarity with Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) principles, regulations, laws, and practices.
- Analytical Competence: A proven track record of evaluating and resolving highly complex human resource challenges.
- Leadership Experience: Direct, prior experience leading a professional team, conducting briefings for senior staff, or administering training.
- Software Mastery: Proficiency with standard business software, specifically Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams).
- HR Systems Proficiency: Comfort using reporting applications (such as Cognos or Business Objects) and navigating modern HR Information Systems (HRIS).
- Work Complexity: Experience equivalent in scope, responsibility, and difficulty to the next lower pay band (NF-03).
Highly Preferred Qualifications
In a competitive job market, standing out is essential. Candidates who meet the basic qualifications and also possess the following "Highly Preferred" credentials will be referred to hiring managers first as "Best Qualified":
- At least twelve (12) months of prior work experience within a NAF Human Resources Office specifically providing specialized HR services to child, youth, and teen programs.
- Documented, successful completion of training programs in the following core areas: Basic Staffing, Customer Service, Organizational Structure, Basic Writing, and Time Management.
If you possess these preferred credentials, make sure they are prominently featured on the first page of your resume to catch the recruiter's eye.
Employee Benefits
Working as an Army Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) employee brings distinct benefits that contribute to a healthy work-life balance and long-term financial security. Since NAF organizations are self-sustaining entities funded by revenue-producing activities rather than tax dollars, their benefits package is tailored to provide exceptional value.
- Comprehensive Health & Life Insurance: Regular full-time and part-time employees are eligible for comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance packages.
- Retirement Planning: Secure your future through participation in the NAF retirement plan as well as a robust 401(k) program containing generous employer-matching options.
- Generous Paid Time Off: Accrue personal leave, sick leave, and enjoy paid time off during all official federal holidays.
- MWR Facility Access: Enjoy the unique perks of base life, including access to world-class on-post fitness centers, libraries, and recreational services.
- Growth and Education: Take advantage of tuition assistance, leadership seminars, and professional developmental courses designed to advance your federal career path.
Application Tips & Process for Success
Navigating the federal application process requires careful attention to detail. Follow these strategic guidelines to ensure your application stands out:
1. Observe the Strict Page Limit
Federal hiring directives require that resumes submitted for this role be two (2) pages or less. If your resume exceeds this limit, it may lead to an immediate system rejection or prevent recruiters from reading your most valuable achievements. Keep your descriptions concise and impactful.
2. Format Matters (PDF Only)
Save and upload your resume as a PDF file. Text files or Word documents can occasionally shift formatting when uploaded to the USA Staffing portal, which could push your resume over the strict two-page limit.
3. Align Your Resume with Assessment Questions
Review the online questionnaire before submitting. Tailor the professional descriptions in your resume to clearly mirror the competencies evaluated in the assessment, using clear, active verbs.
4. Provide Professional References
To expedite the selection and background check processes, include the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of at least three professional references directly inside your resume.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the significance of the first cut-off date on August 24, 2026? A: The agency will pull and review applications received on or before August 24 first. If a highly qualified candidate is selected from this group, the position may be filled immediately, so early submission is highly recommended.
Q: Is this position open to the general public? A: Yes, this position is open to the public. However, applicants who qualify for various federal preferences—such as NAF Priority Consideration, Veteran Preferences, or Military Spouse Preferences—should submit the appropriate documentation to claim these advantages.
Q: Does the position require a security clearance? A: A formal security clearance is not required; however, all selected applicants must successfully pass a thorough suitability and fitness background adjudication check prior to their official start date.
Q: Can I submit a paper application if I have technical issues? A: Yes. If you are unable to apply online, you can contact the servicing NAF HR representative at the address listed in the announcement to obtain a manual paper application form. Manual applications must be completed and received by 3:00 PM EST on August 31, 2026.
If you are an HR professional with federal experience and a desire to lead, the Lead Human Resources Specialist (NF-04) position at Fort Stewart, Georgia, represents an incredible career move. Offering an attractive salary, comprehensive benefits, and a supportive team environment, this role allows you to make a tangible difference in the lives of military families while advancing your own federal career.
Take the initiative today. Gather your professional certifications, polish your two-page resume, and submit your application before the initial cut-off date to place yourself at the front of the line for this premier leadership opportunity!
Why This Lead Human Resources Specialist Nf-04 Job Matters
Step into a pivotal leadership role with the US Army Civilian Human Resources Agency at Fort Stewart, Georgia, where your human resources expertise directly supports the families and operational readiness of our military personnel.
Lead Human Resources Specialist Nf-04 Job Overview
The US Army Civilian Human Resources Agency (CHRA) is seeking a qualified and driven professional for the role of Lead Human Resources Specialist (NF-04). Operating within the G-9 Child and Youth Service Center (C2SC) at Fort Stewart, Georgia, the successful candidate will provide essential leadership to a dedicated Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) HR team. This role is crucial for executing strategies, ensuring regulatory compliance, and guiding HR programs that support vital community service personnel. Highly qualified applicants with NAF HR experience and specialized training in Child and Youth Programs are strongly encouraged to apply.
Requirements for Lead Human Resources Specialist Nf-04
- Must possess at least eighteen (18) months of professional experience in a federal human resources office or an equivalent environment demonstrating solid knowledge of Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) concepts, laws, regulations, and practices.
- Proven experience analyzing, evaluating, and recommending effective solutions to highly complex human resources issues.
- Prior experience leading a team, delivering professional training, or conducting formal briefings.
- Demonstrated proficiency using Microsoft Office Programs (including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams) or equivalent software.
- Experience or working knowledge utilizing reporting tools (such as Business Objects Applications, Cognos, etc.) alongside various HR information systems.
- The applicant's professional history must showcase experience equivalent in difficulty and complexity to the next lower pay band (NF-03).
- Resumes must be strictly limited to two (2) pages or less to be considered eligible.
Preferred Qualifications for Lead Human Resources Specialist Nf-04
- Possess twelve (12) months of prior work experience within a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) Human Resources Office specifically delivering services to Child and Youth Programs.
- Successful completion of formal training programs in Basic Staffing, Customer Service, Organizational Structure, Basic Writing, and Time Management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Enrollment eligibility in comprehensive health and life insurance programs.
- ✓Participation in 401(k) and federal retirement plans (with employer matching options for eligible regular full-time, part-time, and some flexible staff).
- ✓Generous paid personal time off and observance of all federal holidays.
- ✓Access to premier on-base recreational facilities, including state-of-the-art fitness centers, libraries, and other base amenities.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development, certifications, and career-advancement training.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Lead Human Resources Specialist Nf-04 Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Lead Human Resources Specialist Nf-04 Job
- Log into or create your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Search for the official vacancy announcement number: O1NAFBG-26-13039717.
- Select your eligible, formatted resume (2-page maximum limit) and any required supporting documentation.
- Complete the comprehensive online assessment questionnaire (preview available via the provided link).
- Verify that your application package is fully complete, accurate, and submitted before 11:59 PM Eastern Time on the closing date of August 31, 2026 (or by the priority cut-off of August 24, 2026).
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Keep your resume brief and concise. The federal government strictly enforces a limit of two (2) pages or less. Pages exceeding this limit will not be reviewed.
- Save your resume in PDF format before uploading. This guarantees your formatting, margins, and page limits remain intact during the submission process.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with NAF regulations, HR reporting tools (like Cognos or Business Objects), and leadership duties to validate your qualification score.
- Upload all necessary supporting files (such as SF-50, DD-214, training certificates, or transcripts) immediately to avoid losing eligibility or preferred status.
- Include direct, professional reference contact details (name, email, and phone number) on your resume to help accelerate the hiring process.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application deadline for this position?
The final closing date is August 31, 2026. However, there is an initial cut-off date on August 24, 2026. Applicants who submit their packages on or before August 24 will receive priority consideration.
Are relocation expenses covered for this job?
No. Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized because a PCS move has been determined not to be in the interest of the government.
Are there limits on my resume length?
Yes. Federal agencies require resumes to be restricted to two (2) pages or less. Ensure your resume is concise, highly focused, and saved in a PDF format under 5 MB.
Is telework permitted for this role?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework, subject to agency policies and supervisor approval. However, it is not a fully remote position.
External Resources
- ↗ USAJobs Job Announcement
- ↗ USA Staffing Apply Portal
- ↗ USA Staffing Application Status Tracker
- ↗ Preview Assessment Questionnaire
- ↗ USA Staffing Applicant Support Help Center
- ↗ USAJobs Application Status Guide
- ↗ OPM Official Two-Page Resume Guidance
- ↗ USAJobs Resume Page Limit FAQ
- ↗ Army NAF Benefits Interactive Presentation
- ↗ DHS REAL ID Compliance Requirements
- ↗ CHRA NAF Applicant Information Kit PDF
- ↗ CHRA NAF Recruitment Inquiry Email
