Become a Field Operations Specialist with the SBA

Are you looking for a career that combines leadership, logistics, and a commitment to helping others? The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is currently hiring a Field Operations Specialist to work within the Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R). This role is critical to the SBA's mission, ensuring that disaster survivors and small businesses receive the support they need to recover and thrive.

Job Responsibilities

As a Field Operations Specialist at the GS-12 level, you will serve as a key official during disaster declarations. Your core duties include:

Interagency Coordination: Acting as the lead SBA contact for federal, state, and local officials.
Operational Oversight: Managing SBA activities at disaster sites and overseeing staff operations.
Support Services: Assisting disaster survivors with loan applications and ensuring efficient application processing.
Training & Development: Planning and delivering training presentations using Microsoft Office tools.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-11 level. Key competencies include:

Experience implementing disaster-related policies or guidelines.
Ability to lead teams in high-pressure field environments.
Strong organizational and communication skills.
Adherence to federal background investigation and probationary requirements.

Comparison of Potential Roles

Feature	Field Operations Specialist	Administrative Support
Role Type	Lead/Coordination	Clerical/Data
Travel Required	High	Minimal
Focus	Disaster Recovery	Office Operations
Grade Level	GS-12	Varies

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $99,218 to $128,987 per year, commensurate with qualifications and the General Schedule pay scale.

Benefits

Working for the federal government offers stability and comprehensive benefits, including:

Health and Life Insurance coverage.
Retirement planning and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
Telework flexibility where consistent with agency policy.

Application Tips

Tailor your resume: Ensure every requirement mentioned is explicitly addressed in your work history.
Documentation: Double-check that all required documents (SF-50, transcripts, etc.) are legible and correctly attached.
Assessment Prep: Take the USA Hire assessment seriously; it is a critical component of the evaluation process.

If you have a heart for service and the experience to lead teams through challenging disaster recovery scenarios, this role at the SBA offers a unique opportunity to build a meaningful career. Apply today and contribute to the economic resilience of communities nationwide.

Why This Field Operations Specialist Job Matters

Make a lasting impact by leading vital disaster recovery efforts as a Field Operations Specialist with the Small Business Administration.

Field Operations Specialist Job Overview

The Small Business Administration (SBA) is seeking a dedicated Field Operations Specialist to join the Office of Disaster Recovery & Resilience (ODR&R) in Citrus Heights, California. In this high-impact role, you will serve as a lead official in disaster-stricken areas, coordinating federal, state, and local resources to provide essential assistance to survivors and small business owners.

Requirements for Field Operations Specialist

One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 grade level.
Proven experience implementing policies, guidelines, and procedures for disaster or emergency programs.
Demonstrated ability to lead or oversee team operations in a field environment.
Experience planning and delivering professional employee training.
Ability to assess program needs and allocate resources effectively.
Completion of a 1-year probationary period or 2-year trial period.
Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959.
Successful completion of a background investigation.

Preferred Qualifications for Field Operations Specialist

Strong interpersonal skills to interact with diverse disaster-impacted populations.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite for reporting and training purposes.
Exceptional ability to manage stress and handle high-pressure field conditions.
Demonstrated integrity and honesty in professional operations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Telework opportunities where applicable
✓Career advancement and development programs
✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits
✓Opportunity to participate in public service initiatives

💡 How to Apply Field Operations Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Field Operations Specialist Job

Create or update your profile on the official USAJOBS portal.
Upload a resume detailing your relevant experience, ensuring it does not exceed two pages.
Submit your online application and complete the initial questionnaire.
Monitor your email for a unique URL to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
Complete the assessment within 48 hours of receiving the invitation.
Verify that all required documentation (transcripts, SF-50s, etc.) is attached before the deadline.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume; avoid generic descriptions and link your experience directly to the requirements.
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical delays.
Ensure your resume includes hours worked per week for all relevant experience, especially for part-time or volunteer work.
Set aside at least three hours for the USA Hire assessment to ensure you can complete it without interruption.
Verify your document uploads in the portal rather than just relying on the submission button.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is education a substitute for the experience requirement?

No, there is no education substitution for this specific grade level.

What happens if I need an accommodation for the assessment?

You may request a reasonable accommodation during the online application process. Requests must be made and approved prior to starting the assessment.

Can I work from home?

Yes, telework may be available in accordance with SBA policy and collective bargaining agreements.

What is the closing date for applications?

Applications must be submitted by September 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Is a security clearance required?

This position requires a Moderate Risk background investigation (Suitability/Fitness).

Job from Small Business Administration

The Small Business Administration is the federal agency dedicated to fueling the American dream of entrepreneurship. For over 70 years, the SBA has provided essential capital, contracting, and counseling services to small businesses across the country. Whether they are starting a new venture or recovering from a natural disaster, the SBA is the primary advocate for America’s job creators.