Launch Your Career as a Time and Leave Clerk with the Federal Bureau of Prisons
Are you looking for a stable, high-impact career that blends administrative excellence with public service? The Department of Justice, specifically the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP), is currently hiring a Time and Leave Clerk in Lompoc, California. This role is pivotal in ensuring that institutional staff are supported through accurate, timely payroll and attendance management.
Job Responsibilities
The Time and Leave Clerk serves as the primary liaison for timekeeping and payroll accuracy. Key duties include:
- Record Keeping: Managing and verifying the time and attendance records for all assigned institutional employees.
- Payroll Verification: Confirming overtime approvals and ensuring staff correctly receive entitled pay, including night differentials and holiday pay.
- Documentation: Maintaining meticulous records regarding leave requests and payroll adjustments.
- System Integrity: Ensuring all data is accurately keyed into the system, reflecting the operational requirements of the institution.
- Institutional Security: As part of the BOP team, you will contribute to the ongoing security of the facility on a regular basis.
Comparison of Pay Grades
| Feature | GL-04 | GL-05 |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Requirement | 1 Year General Clerical | 1 Year Specialized Clerical |
| Education Requirement | 2 Years above HS | 4 Years above HS |
| Primary Focus | Data Entry & Support | Payroll/Overtime Resolution |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific experience or educational thresholds. Candidates must pass a comprehensive background investigation, physical, and drug screening. Additionally, all new hires must attend a three-week "Introduction to Correctional Techniques" course in Glynco, Georgia.
Salary and Benefits
The salary range for this position is between $50,937 and $72,819 annually, commensurate with experience and grade level. Federal employment comes with an extensive benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Generous retirement programs, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Ample paid time off, including federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- Career growth within the Department of Justice.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal role requires precision. Follow these steps:
- Prepare your Resume: Ensure it is limited to two pages and clearly lists duties, dates (MM/YYYY), and hours worked per week.
- Submit Documentation: Have your transcripts and any relevant SF-50 forms ready.
- Complete the Assessment: Use the link provided in the USAJOBS portal to complete the required questionnaires.
If you possess strong arithmetic skills, an eye for detail, and the desire to join a secure and rewarding federal environment, the Time and Leave Clerk position in Lompoc, CA, is the perfect match. Take the next step in your professional journey and apply today.
Why This Time And Leave Clerk Job Matters
Launch a rewarding career in administrative operations while contributing to the safety and mission-critical work of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
Time And Leave Clerk Job Overview
The Department of Justice, Bureau of Prisons, is seeking a diligent and detail-oriented Time and Leave Clerk to join our team in Lompoc, California. This role serves as a backbone for institutional operations, managing the complex administrative tasks associated with personnel timekeeping, payroll, and record maintenance. If you possess a strong aptitude for numbers, a passion for accuracy, and a desire to work in a unique, mission-driven environment, this is an excellent opportunity to impact public safety and support the dedicated staff within our federal correctional system.
Requirements for Time And Leave Clerk
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to pass a background investigation, urinalysis, and physical screening.
- Completion of the three-week 'Introduction to Correctional Techniques' training course in Glynco, GA.
- Maximum entry age requirement of 36 for original appointment (exemptions exist for certain veterans).
- Must be able to obtain and maintain a required security clearance.
Preferred Qualifications for Time And Leave Clerk
- Experience in maintaining accurate leave and payroll documentation.
- Proficiency in data entry, manipulation, and report generation.
- Strong ability to communicate effectively with staff to resolve timekeeping inquiries.
- Previous experience confirming staff eligibility for overtime, night differential, and holiday pay.
- Background in clerical or administrative support within a fast-paced environment.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Retirement savings via the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays, vacation, and sick leave
- ✓Competitive salary progression
- ✓Career advancement opportunities within the Department of Justice
💡 How to Apply Time And Leave Clerk Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Time And Leave Clerk Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
- Prepare a resume (max 2 pages) including specific hours worked per week and dates (MM/YYYY).
- Apply online by submitting the required application questionnaire and supporting documentation.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments if notified after initial submission.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly lists the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Attach all required documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, at the time of application to avoid disqualification.
- Use standard file names for your attachments (e.g., 'Transcripts' or 'DD-214') and avoid special characters.
- Set aside at least two hours of uninterrupted time to complete the USA Hire assessment if required.
- Check your application status regularly via the USAJOBS link provided in your profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum entry age for this position?
The maximum entry age is 36 for original appointment into a Bureau of Prisons institution, though qualified preference-eligible veterans may be exempt from this requirement.
Is travel required for this role?
Yes, successful candidates must complete a mandatory three-week training course at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Glynco, Georgia.
What kind of documents do I need to submit?
You must provide a resume, and if applicable, college transcripts, your latest SF-50 for federal experience, and documentation for veteran's preference or CTAP/ICTAP status.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
*A: No, this is an onsite role at the correctional facility in Lompoc.*
What if I have prior federal law enforcement experience?
*A: If you have prior experience, you may be eligible to bypass certain age restrictions. Please submit your SF-50 to verify.
Job from Bureau Of Prisons/Federal Prison System
The Federal Bureau of Prisons, an agency of the Department of Justice, is tasked with the confinement and rehabilitation of offenders. Beyond corrections, our facilities rely on a dedicated team of administrative professionals to ensure operational continuity. Working for the BOP offers a unique sense of mission; every employee, regardless of their role, contributes to public safety and the successful reentry of individuals into the community.