Become a Support Services Specialist with the USDA Forest Service

Are you looking for a career that blends administrative excellence with a passion for our nation's natural resources? The USDA Forest Service is currently recruiting for a Support Services Specialist based in the beautiful Kootenai National Forest in Troy, Montana. This role is a vital pillar for our local field operations, ensuring that the team on the ground has the resources and administrative support needed to manage 193 million acres of public land.

Job Responsibilities

The Support Services Specialist plays a multifaceted role in the daily efficiency of the office. Your primary responsibilities will include:

Administrative Liaison: Providing comprehensive support for unit management, including travel arrangements and records management.
Budget and Procurement: Monitoring monthly expenditures, managing routine supply purchases, and maintaining inventory.
HR Coordination: Assisting staff with information regarding leave, injury compensation, retirement, and onboarding processes.
Documentation Control: Reviewing correspondence for accuracy, grammar, and formatting before final approval.
System Operations: Utilizing automated platforms to track recruitment, performance ratings, and procurement actions.

Comparison of Grade Levels

Feature	GS-05 Level	GS-06 Level
Experience Requirement	3 Years General Experience	1 Year Specialized Experience
Education Option	Bachelor's Degree	1 Year Graduate Coursework
Primary Focus	Foundational Administration	Advanced Budget/Procurement

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet all eligibility criteria, including:

Background Checks: Successful completion of security and fingerprint screening.
Resume Limit: Submissions must not exceed two pages to be considered.
Selective Service: Compliance with registration requirements for male applicants.
E-Verify: Completion of federal employment verification.

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $40,736 to $59,031 annually. In addition to base pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including medical and life insurance options, a robust retirement plan, and generous leave policies. Housing assistance and on-site daycare facilities may be available at certain locations, adding to the total compensation package.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances of success:

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific accomplishments in procurement, office administration, and database usage.
Proofread: Since this role requires accuracy, ensure your application is free of errors.
Follow Format Guidelines: Stick to the two-page limit strictly. Any document exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
Verify Documents: Ensure all transcripts or veteran preference forms (DD214) are attached and legible.

The Support Services Specialist position is an incredible opportunity for someone with strong organizational skills to support the vital work of the Forest Service. If you are ready to start a stable, rewarding career in Troy, Montana, we encourage you to review the full details and submit your application before the closing date.

Why This Support Services Specialist Job Matters

Launch your career with the Forest Service in the heart of Montana's wilderness and play a vital role in managing our nation’s most treasured natural landscapes.

Support Services Specialist Job Overview

The USDA Forest Service is seeking a dedicated Support Services Specialist to join the Kootenai National Forest team in Troy, Montana. This role is essential for maintaining efficient administrative operations, providing support in areas ranging from budget management and procurement to human resources coordination and records management. You will serve as a key administrative liaison, ensuring that our local unit operates smoothly to support our mission of environmental stewardship and public service.

Requirements for Support Services Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must be registered for Selective Service (for males born after 12-31-59).
Must pass a background investigation and fingerprint check.
Required to serve a 1-year probationary period.
Must undergo an E-Verify employment eligibility check.
Must set up direct deposit for federal payments.
Resume must not exceed two pages.

Preferred Qualifications for Support Services Specialist

Experience in budget reporting and tracking expenditures.
Proficiency in maintaining administrative databases and inventory systems.
Demonstrated ability to review documents for grammatical accuracy and procedural compliance.
Strong skills in procurement, property management, or travel coordination.
Educational background in Business Administration, Public Administration, or related management fields.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Health and Life Insurance
✓Federal Retirement Benefits
✓Paid Federal Holidays
✓Annual and Sick Leave accrual
✓Career development and potential for non-competitive promotion
✓Access to potential agency daycare facilities
✓Potential availability of housing

💡 How to Apply Support Services Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Support Services Specialist Job

Review the full USAJOBS announcement carefully.
Prepare a resume that is no longer than two pages.
Gather supporting documents such as transcripts or veteran preference papers.
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Complete the online Assessment Questionnaire via the application portal.
Submit your application and all required documents before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Keep your resume concise; any submission over two pages will be rejected.
Double-check your transcripts to ensure they are legible and include your name.
Use the application portal to monitor the status of your submission in real-time.
Ensure all uploaded documents are in accepted formats like PDF or Word.
Submit your application well before the deadline to account for any technical issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary for this position is between $40,736 and $59,031 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level.

Can I apply if I am not a federal employee?

Yes, this position is open to the public as well as those with career transition priority.

Is telework available for this role?

This position is not currently listed as eligible for telework.

What if I have prior experience with the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps?

*A: Yes, we recognize both paid and unpaid volunteer work that builds relevant administrative skills.*

How do I know if my application is in progress?

*A: You can log into your USAJOBS account to track the status of your application throughout the review process.*

Job from Forest Service

The Forest Service, a branch of the Department of Agriculture, manages a vast network of forests, grasslands, and research facilities. Our mission goes beyond land management; it includes wildfire suppression, recreation support, and ensuring the health and sustainability of our natural ecosystems for future generations. Joining our team means committing to a challenge that rewards you with purposeful work and the opportunity to work in some of the most scenic environments in the United States.