Launch Your Career as an Executive Assistant with the CMS

Are you a highly organized professional who thrives in fast-paced, mission-driven environments? The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is currently hiring Executive Assistants to support top leadership within the Office of the Administrator. This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the nation’s healthcare system from the inside.

Job Responsibilities

As an Executive Assistant, you serve as the backbone for senior executives, including the Administrator, Deputy Administrators, and other high-ranking officials. Your day-to-day duties will include:

Strategic Calendar Management: Balancing the competing priorities of senior leadership, scheduling meetings with precision, and ensuring subject matter experts are present when needed.
Project Oversight: Tracking administrative project timelines and status updates to ensure initiatives move forward.
Research & Preparation: Compiling briefing materials, agendas, and reports from diverse sources to support executive decision-making.
Policy Compliance: Reviewing organizational practices to ensure alignment with federal regulations and CMS goals.

Requirements

To qualify for this role, you must meet specialized experience requirements. Below is a breakdown of the qualifications:

Grade Level	Education/Experience Requirements
GS-11	1 year specialized experience at GS-9 level OR Ph.D. / 3 years graduate education
GS-12	1 year specialized experience at GS-11 level; no education substitution allowed

Salary Overview

The salary range for these positions is competitive, reflecting the high-level responsibilities involved.

GS-11/12: $85,447 - $133,142 per year.

Benefits

CMS provides a comprehensive federal benefits package designed to support your work-life balance and long-term financial security, including:

Excellent health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Participation in the Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS).
Generous paid leave (annual and sick) and federal holidays.
Flexible work arrangements and alternative scheduling options.

Application Tips

Success in the federal application process relies on attention to detail.

Use the Resume Builder: This tool ensures you don't miss the required data points like hours per week and salary history.
Keep it Concise: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
Quantify Results: When describing your duties, emphasize the outcomes of your administrative support, not just the tasks.

Supporting the leadership at CMS is more than just an administrative role; it is a chance to play a role in national health policy. If you possess the experience, integrity, and organizational prowess required, we encourage you to apply before the September 30, 2026 deadline.

Why This Executive Assistant Job Matters

Elevate your career at the heart of national healthcare policy as an Executive Assistant supporting senior leadership at CMS.

Executive Assistant Job Overview

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking highly organized and motivated Executive Assistants to support top-tier leadership within the Office of the Administrator. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operation of high-level administrative functions, project management, and interdepartmental coordination. You will play a vital role in enabling CMS to fulfill its mission of improving healthcare quality and efficiency for millions of Americans.

Requirements for Executive Assistant

At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-9 for GS-11, or GS-11 for GS-12).
Ability to manage complex calendars, including scheduling, meeting coordination, and event logistics.
Proven experience in research, gathering data from multiple sources, and preparing briefing materials or correspondence.
Strong organizational skills for tracking project tasks, milestones, and status updates.
Resume limited to two pages or less.
Documentation of citizenship and Selective Service registration (if applicable).
Completion of required online USA Hire competency assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Executive Assistant

Prior experience supporting political appointees or career senior executives in a federal environment.
Advanced proficiency in administrative systems and organizational project tracking tools.
Demonstrated ability to function effectively in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment.
Strong verbal and written communication skills for interfacing with subject matter experts and senior staff.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
✓Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS) participation.
✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave.
✓Flexible work arrangements and alternative work schedules.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.

💡 How to Apply Executive Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Executive Assistant Job

Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
Prepare your federal resume (maximum 2 pages) including specific employment dates and hours worked.
Click the 'Apply' button on the USAJobs portal.
Complete the online questionnaire.
Upload all required documentation, including transcripts if using education to qualify.
Submit your package by the closing date of September 30, 2026.
Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire assessments and complete them within 48 hours.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure all required information is included in your application.
Be very specific about your duties, including the series and grade of your current/past federal positions.
Ensure your resume clearly illustrates how your past experience matches the requirements listed for the GS-11 or GS-12 levels.
Check your application status regularly via your USAJOBS account.
Do not copy and paste directly from the job announcement; tailor your description to your specific professional accomplishments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I substitute education for the GS-11 grade level?

Yes, you may qualify for the GS-11 level through a Ph.D. or 3 years of progressively higher-level graduate education, or a combination of education and experience.

Is relocation assistance available?

No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this position.

What is the assessment process?

Applicants must complete online USA Hire assessments after submitting their application. These assessments measure core competencies and must be completed within 48 hours of notification.

Is a security clearance required?

While a high-level clearance is not required, this is a Moderate Risk position requiring suitability/fitness adjudication.

Can I update my application after I have submitted it?

You can update your application materials anytime before the announcement closes on September 30, 2026.

Job from Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is a powerhouse within the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). CMS oversees programs that provide healthcare coverage to millions of Americans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children's Health Insurance Program. Working at CMS means being part of a team dedicated to improving healthcare quality, efficiency, and access for all.