Become the Administrative Officer at Haleakala National Park in Kula, Hawaii

Imagine heading to work each day surrounded by the breathtaking volcanic landscapes, unique subalpine ecosystems, and deep cultural heritage of Maui, Hawaii. The National Park Service (NPS) is offering a career-defining opportunity for a highly skilled professional to serve as the Administrative Officer (Chief of Administration/Business Manager) at Haleakala National Park in Kula, Hawaii.

This GS-12 position is not just another administrative job; it is a critical leadership role that directly impacts the preservation of some of America’s most precious natural and cultural resources. As the primary administrative advisor to the Park Superintendent, you will steer the business operations, financial strategies, and personnel management that keep this world-class destination functioning seamlessly.

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About the Agency: The National Park Service and the Department of the Interior

The National Park Service is a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI). For over a century, the NPS has been dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural resources of the National Park System for the enjoyment, education, and inspiration of present and future generations.

The DOI itself is charged with protecting and managing the Nation's natural resources and cultural heritage. This includes providing advanced scientific information about those resources and honoring trust responsibilities and special commitments to American Indians, Alaska Natives, Native Hawaiians, and affiliated Island Communities.

By joining Haleakala National Park, you become part of a committed team that values diverse perspectives, local community collaboration, and environmental stewardship. Working in Kula, Hawaii, offers a unique opportunity to work alongside dedicated conservationists and support the stewardship of sacred Hawaiian lands.

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Job Responsibilities and Core Duties

As the Administrative Officer, you will serve as the Chief of Administration and Business Manager. You will be the principal advisor and management consultant to the Park Superintendent and the executive leadership team. You will lead a dedicated administrative staff and handle complex, sometimes sensitive, business scenarios.

Your primary duties will include:

• Strategic Planning and Policy Formulation: Participating actively as a key member of the park management team to analyze, plan, and monitor complex, park-wide strategic plans, operational procedures, policies, and internal control systems.
• Financial and Budgetary Oversight: Leading the development and formulation of the park’s budget. You will supervise the financial team, analyze spending trends, and provide authoritative advice to ensure revenues and spending remain balanced.
• Internal Controls and Fraud Prevention: Developing and implementing procedures to eliminate waste, prevent fraud, and guarantee the responsible use of government properties, equipment, and resources.
• Administrative Support Services: Overseeing payroll, timekeeping, travel services, invoice payments, internal audits, and general business collections.
• Supervision and Mentorship: Directing and guiding the team of specialists within the Administration and Business Office, providing training, evaluating performance, and fostering a collaborative workplace environment.

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Core Business Operations Comparison

To understand the breadth of this leadership role, the table below highlights how the Administrative Officer balances different aspects of the park's operations:

Area of Responsibility	Key Operations Managed	Strategic Impact on Park Operations
Budget & Finance	Budget formulation, execution, revenue balancing, spending monitoring, and travel auditing.	Maintains financial health, prevents overspending, and ensures legal compliance with federal financial laws.
Human Resources	Personnel consultation, payroll coordination, timekeeping management, and performance evaluations.	Ensures the park is adequately staffed, personnel are compensated accurately, and employee relations remain strong.
Procurement & Acquisitions	Government purchase card monitoring, acquisition compliance, and contract oversight.	Secures essential equipment, facilities maintenance resources, and service contracts for smooth park operations.

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Qualifications and Requirements

This position is being filled at the GS-12 grade level, which commands a high degree of independent judgment, leadership, and technical expertise. No education substitution is allowed for this grade level; eligibility is based strictly on professional experience.

Minimum Experience Requirements

To qualify, you must possess at least one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-11 level in the Federal service (obtained in either the public or private sectors). Specialized experience must include:

1. Managing the comprehensive administrative and business operations of an organization (including budget formulation/execution, financial management, human resources, and acquisition/procurement).
2. Analyzing and assessing the efficiency and effectiveness of business activities.
3. Providing strategic guidance and consulting services to executive management and external stakeholders.

Key Conditions of Employment

• Citizenship: You must be a citizen or national of the United States.
• Background Check: Appointment is subject to a background investigation, moderate-risk suitability adjudication, and credentialing.
• Driver's License: A valid state driver's license must be maintained throughout employment.
• Government Credit Card: You must be able to complete training and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
• Probationary Period: You will be required to serve a one-year probationary period to evaluate performance and professional conduct. Additionally, a supervisory probationary period may be required.

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Salary and Compensation Overview

The position offers a competitive compensation package with a salary range of $93,445 to $121,482 per year (GS-12 grade level). The exact salary is determined based on qualifications, federal pay regulations, and geographic adjustments.

In addition to the base salary, federal employees in Hawaii receive excellent benefits, including comprehensive health insurance, federal pension benefits, and retirement savings matches.

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Benefits and Perks

As a federal employee, you will have access to a comprehensive benefit suite designed to support your health, wealth, and work-life balance:

• Health Benefits: Choose from a wide selection of health, dental, and vision insurance plans through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
• Retirement Security: Participate in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), which includes a defined benefit pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with up to 5% employer matching contributions.
• Paid Time Off: Earn generous paid annual leave (for vacation and personal use), sick leave, and observe 11 paid federal holidays each year.
• Telework Eligibility: This position is eligible for hybrid telework schedules, allowing you to balance office-based work with remote days, subject to supervisory approval.
• Workplace Wellness: Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP), physical fitness initiatives, and career development programs.

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Step-by-Step Application Guide & Pro-Tips

Applying for a federal role requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps and tips to ensure your package is competitive and complete:

Step 1: Prepare Your Documents

Gather your 2-page resume, your most recent performance appraisal (signed by your supervisor and dated within the last 18 months), and your latest SF-50 (non-award) to verify your current grade level and federal tenure.

Step 2: Format Your Resume Perfectly

The National Park Service has strict compliance rules for this listing. If you do not follow these formatting rules, your application will be disqualified:

• Length: Your resume must not exceed 2 single-sided pages. Any content on a third page will not be read.
• Font Size: Use a minimum of 10-point font for all body text.
• Margins: Maintain a minimum of 0.5-inch margins on all sides.
• Work Schedule Details: For every job, you must explicitly state your hours worked per week (e.g., "40 hours per week" or "full-time"). If hours are missing, you will not receive credit for that experience.

Step 3: Complete the USA Hire Assessments

After submitting your application on USAJobs, monitor your inbox for a notification with a unique link to the USA Hire Assessments. This online assessment measures critical competencies like problem-solving, customer service, accountability, and decision-making. Set aside at least 3 hours to complete these assessments, though most applicants finish in less time.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is relocation assistance available for this position?

No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position. Applicants are responsible for their own relocation costs to Kula, Hawaii.

What happens if my resume is longer than two pages?

Your resume will be deemed non-compliant, and you will lose consideration for the position. Ensure you edit your resume down to exactly two pages or fewer, prioritizing your most relevant GS-11 equivalent experience.

I am not a current federal employee. Can I still apply?

This vacancy is open to current and former federal employees, individuals eligible under the Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act, and career transition program eligibles (CTAP/ICTAP). Review the "Who May Apply" guidelines in the official listing to confirm your eligibility.

How long will my USA Hire Assessment scores remain valid?

Once completed, your USA Hire Assessment scores are generally kept on file and reused for one year for any other federal positions requiring the same assessments.

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Serving as the Administrative Officer for Haleakala National Park is a prestigious opportunity to combine executive-level administrative skills with public service in one of the world's most unique environments. If you possess a strong background in federal budget management, human resources, and business leadership, do not miss the chance to advance your career with the National Park Service in Hawaii. Submit your completed application package by September 11, 2026!