Launch Your Career: Secretary Position at the NOAA Diving Center

Are you an organized professional looking to contribute to a mission that protects our oceans and advances scientific discovery? The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is seeking a motivated Secretary for the NOAA Diving Center in Seattle, Washington. This role is a critical component of the Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO), ensuring that the administrative foundation remains strong so our divers and scientists can excel in their fields.

Job Responsibilities

As a Secretary, you will handle a diverse array of administrative tasks, including:

Clerical Support: Preparing correspondence, scanning documents, and managing general office organization.
File Management: Maintaining and archiving accurate records and electronic databases.
Scheduling: Coordinating travel logistics and tracking organizational training requirements.
Communication: Acting as the primary point of contact for the public, stakeholders, and internal staff.

Requirements

To be considered, candidates must:

Be U.S. Citizens.
Possess one year of specialized experience at the ZS-2 or GS-04 level.
Successfully complete a background investigation.
Submit all required documents (resume, transcripts, etc.) by the deadline.

Comparison of Qualifications

Requirement	Description
Citizenship	Must be a U.S. Citizen
Experience	1 year of specialized clerical experience
Security	Low Risk investigation required
Education	High school diploma or higher; substitution allowed

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $45,785 to $66,348, commensurate with experience and the CAPS pay band structure.

Benefits

Working for the federal government provides a comprehensive package, including:

Robust health, dental, and vision insurance.
Federal retirement pension and thrift savings plans.
Paid time off for vacations and medical needs.
Career advancement and specialized federal training.

Application Tips

Resume Length: Strictly adhere to the two-page limit.
Documentation: Ensure all SF-50s and transcripts are attached if applicable.
Clarity: Use specific examples of your administrative experience.

This role is an excellent opportunity to gain federal experience in a high-impact environment. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application through the official portal before the September 10, 2026, closing date.

Why This Secretary Job Matters

Launch your career with the NOAA Diving Center! We are seeking an organized, detail-oriented Secretary to support the vital missions of our Office of Marine and Aviation Operations in Seattle.

Secretary Job Overview

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is looking for a dedicated Secretary to join the NOAA Diving Center in Seattle, Washington. In this role, you will be the backbone of our administrative operations, providing critical support that enables our scientists and divers to perform their essential work. From managing complex scheduling and travel logistics to maintaining precise electronic records, your contributions will directly support NOAA’s mission to enrich life through science.

Requirements for Secretary

Must be a United States Citizen.
Must be suitable for Federal employment, including passing a background investigation.
Must be registered for Selective Service if applicable.
One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-04 or ZS-2 level.
Proficiency in clerical and administrative support tasks, such as timekeeping, travel processing, and file management.
Must submit all required documentation by the announcement closing date.

Preferred Qualifications for Secretary

Experience in maintaining accurate electronic and physical records systems.
Strong communication skills for serving as a primary point of contact for stakeholders and the public.
Proven ability to manage deadlines for classroom facility preparation and training roster maintenance.
Familiarity with federal administrative and record-keeping procedures.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal employee health insurance options.
✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Generous paid annual and sick leave.
✓Professional development and training opportunities.
✓Opportunities for federal career advancement.

💡 How to Apply Secretary Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Secretary Job

Review the full announcement details and requirements on USAJOBS.
Ensure your resume is no more than two pages long and includes all required details.
Click the 'Apply Online' button to start your application through the USA Staffing portal.
Upload all necessary supporting documents, such as transcripts or SF-50s.
Complete the online questionnaire and verify all information for accuracy.
Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure your resume contains all required fields, including job series, grade, and hours per week.
Your resume must not exceed two pages; excess pages will lead to disqualification.
If you are a current or former federal employee, submit your most recent SF-50 (excluding award forms).
Be specific in your descriptions of past duties to demonstrate how your experience qualifies you for this position.
Proofread your application carefully, as false statements can lead to disqualification or termination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay system for this position?

This position falls under the Department of Commerce (DOC) Alternative Personnel System (CAPS). The ZS-3 band is generally equivalent to the GS-05/06 grade levels.

Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?

Yes, relevant volunteer work, including through programs like the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, can be counted as specialized experience.

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, depending on agency policy and requirements.

Is relocation assistance provided?

*A: No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.*

How do I track my status?

*A: Use the 'Track Your Application' feature on your USAJOBS account.*

Job from National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration

NOAA is a premier federal agency focused on science and stewardship. From tracking severe weather to managing fisheries and marine commerce, NOAA’s work impacts over one-third of the U.S. gross domestic product. By joining the NOAA Diving Center, you are becoming part of a prestigious team that relies on cutting-edge technology and a commitment to safety to perform essential underwater operations.