Launch Your Administrative Career with the NIH
Are you a high-level administrator looking for a meaningful career change? The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is searching for experienced professionals to serve as Administrative Officers across several locations. This role is perfect for those who thrive on managing complex operations and want to contribute to the world's most significant biomedical research efforts.
Job Responsibilities
Administrative Officers at the NIH perform a full range of management tasks. Depending on your grade level, duties include:
- Budgeting: Forecasting, planning, and monitoring organizational budgets from multiple funding streams.
- Procurement: Drafting contract specifications and negotiating with vendors to secure essential resources.
- Personnel Management: Advising staff on HR policies, recruitment procedures, and conflict resolution.
- Facilities Management: Managing space utilization, construction projects, and safety/security protocols.
Comparison of Grade Levels
| Feature | GS-11 | GS-12 | GS-13 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | Foundational Administration | Independent Advisor | Principal Advisor |
| Budgeting | Execution and Forecast | Analysis and Deviation | Complex Multi-Source Management |
| Autonomy | High | Higher | Strategic Decision-Making |
Requirements
To qualify, you must possess specialized experience that reflects your ability to handle the responsibilities of the grade level. You must submit a two-page resume that clearly illustrates your professional history. Educational qualifications, such as a Ph.D. or graduate-level studies, may also count toward meeting the requirements.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range from $77,983 to $158,322 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy robust federal benefits including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave policies. Additional perks like student loan repayment and recruitment incentives may be offered to qualified individuals on a case-by-case basis.
Application Tips
- Submit Early: This vacancy is limited to the first 200 applicants.
- Format Matters: Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less.
- Use Your Own Words: Never copy and paste the job description into your resume.
Joining the NIH as an Administrative Officer is more than just a job; it is a way to support a mission that changes lives globally. If you possess the leadership and administrative skills required, submit your application package before the deadline.
Why This Administrative Officer Job Matters
Transform global biomedical research as a mission-critical Administrative Officer at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).
Administrative Officer Job Overview
The National Institutes of Health is seeking highly organized and strategic individuals to serve as Administrative Officers. In this vital role, you will manage complex administrative functions including budget execution, contract procurement, facilities management, and personnel coordination. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the world's largest biomedical research organization and support work that directly impacts human health.
Requirements for Administrative Officer
- U.S. Citizenship
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages
- Completion of the online application questionnaire
- Minimum 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09, GS-11, or GS-12)
- Ability to meet specialized experience requirements in budget execution, contracting, and personnel administration
- Successful completion of required USA Hire assessments if notified
Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Officer
- Experience managing budgets with diverse funding sources
- Background in contract negotiation and equipment lease management
- Expertise in interpreting federal human resources policies and conflict resolution
- Demonstrated ability to present complex administrative data to senior leadership
- Proven experience in space management and facilities planning
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Comprehensive retirement programs
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Flexible work schedules and telework options
- ✓Potential for student loan repayment assistance
- ✓Recruitment and relocation incentives for eligible candidates
💡 How to Apply Administrative Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Administrative Officer Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details on USAJOBS
- Prepare a concise two-page resume highlighting specific accomplishments
- Click the Apply Online button to begin the questionnaire
- Submit all required documentation, including SF-50 and transcripts
- Complete the mandatory USA Hire assessments if invited via email
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS account
💡 General Tips
- Submit your application early to ensure you beat the 200-application cap
- Use a clean, legible font like Arial or Calibri with 0.5-inch margins for your resume
- Focus your resume on demonstrating how your experience aligns specifically with the duties listed
- Check your spam folder regularly for USA Hire assessment invitations
- Do not copy and paste text directly from the job announcement into your resume
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the application limit for this position?
The announcement will close once 200 applications are received or by the final closing date, whichever occurs first.
Can I work remotely?
While this position is telework-eligible, it is not a fully remote position. You must be available to perform duties in a designated work location.
What should I include in my resume?
Your resume must be two pages or less and include job titles, employer names, specific employment dates, and a detailed description of your duties and accomplishments.
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, this position is categorized as Moderate Risk, and you will undergo suitability and credentialing processes.
What if I have a disability?
NIH provides reasonable accommodations for applicants throughout the process. Please contact the HR Service Desk if you need assistance.
Job from National Institutes Of Health
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a premier agency under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As the primary federal agency conducting and supporting medical research, the NIH operates 27 distinct Institutes and Centers. Every day, 18,000 employees work to uncover new medical knowledge that improves health and saves lives.