Support Services Specialist Opportunity with the Vermont Army National Guard
The Vermont Army National Guard is offering a compelling career opportunity for a motivated individual to serve as a Support Services Specialist in Colchester, Vermont. This position is crucial for maintaining the efficiency and integrity of vital administrative and information management functions within the organization. If you possess a strong background in administrative support, a keen eye for detail, and a commitment to public service, this role offers a chance to make a significant contribution while advancing your career.
About the Vermont Army National Guard
The National Guard is the oldest component of the United States Armed Forces, with a rich history dating back to colonial times. The Vermont Army National Guard proudly upholds this tradition, serving as a vital link between the community and national defense. Members of the Guard respond to state emergencies, support domestic operations, and deploy overseas to serve the nation. Joining the National Guard means becoming part of a dedicated team that protects communities and contributes to national security, all while offering unique career development and personal growth opportunities.
Job Responsibilities
As a Support Services Specialist, your responsibilities will span several critical areas, ensuring the smooth operation of administrative and information management processes:
Records Management:
- Program Support: You will support official records and information management programs, providing guidance and training to personnel to achieve organizational goals.
- Policy Implementation: Execute records management objectives, policies, and requirements, ensuring compliance with directives from higher headquarters.
- System Management: Advise on and resolve issues related to both automated and manual record-keeping systems. You will act as the Records Manager for the agency's automated archive system, overseeing the creation and preservation of official records.
- File Plan Approval: Review and approve agency file plans, ensuring adherence to National Archives and Records Administration (NARA), Department of Defense (DOD), and Department of the Army (DA) policies.
- Training: Conduct specialized training sessions and briefings on records and information management, including military correspondence preparation. Provide technical assistance to staff, units, and activities.
Freedom of Information Act / Privacy Act Program Management:
- Program Administration: Serve as the installation and/or state Privacy Act Officer and FOIA Officer.
- Policy Development: Develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure effective administration of the FOIA/PA program in compliance with state and federal laws.
- Legal Coordination: Coordinate with the Judge Advocate General (JAG) for legal determinations on information release.
Automated Records Management Program:
- Program Execution: Oversee the administration of automated records management programs, recommending policy updates and establishing operating procedures.
- Improvement Identification: Identify areas for improvement in records systems based on policy changes and new initiatives.
- Technical Interface: Interface with internal personnel, other agencies, and vendors to resolve problems, recommend database application changes, and system upgrades.
Printing and Publications Management:
- Program Assistance: Serve as an Assistant Printing and Publications Control Officer, providing guidance for the installation and/or state Printing and Reproduction Program.
- Coordination: Act as a point of contact for units needing printing and publishing services through external agencies.
- Budget Input: Provide input for budget estimates related to printing operations.
Requirements
To be considered for this Support Services Specialist position, applicants must meet the following qualifications:
- Military Status: Must hold a current military status within the Vermont Army National Guard. Prior service or non-prior service applicants are not eligible.
- Security Clearance: Ability to obtain a Secret security clearance within one year of appointment.
- Driver's License: A valid state driver's license is required.
- General Experience: Experience, education, or training in administrative, professional, technical, or other work that has provided knowledge of support services. This includes a demonstrated ability to interact with individuals from diverse backgrounds to achieve cooperation and compliance.
- Computer Proficiency: Experience using computer and automation systems.
- Military Grade: Enlisted personnel from PV1/E1 to SFC/E7 are eligible.
- Legal Requirement: Must not have been convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence as defined by the Lautenberg Amendment.
- Professional Relationships: Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coworkers and customers.
- Environmental Awareness: Maintain awareness of environmental responsibilities.
Specialized Experience:
Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level. This experience should demonstrate:
- Knowledge of methods and procedures for providing diverse support services.
- Ability to plan, organize, and control work involving various activities.
- Skill in gaining cooperation and coordinating the efforts of others.
- Proficiency in oral and written communication.
- Experience with management principles and supervisory responsibilities in support service functions.
Education:
For the GS-09 level, applicants may qualify with:
- A Master's or equivalent graduate degree.
- Two years of graduate study leading to a Master's degree.
- Transcripts are required to verify educational qualifications.
Salary Overview
The salary for this Support Services Specialist position ranges from $62,982 to $81,882 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Benefits
While specific benefits details are not fully outlined in the announcement, employment with the National Guard typically offers:
- A stable career path within a respected organization.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- The satisfaction of serving your country, state, and community.
- Potential for career advancement within the National Guard structure.
Note: Vermont Army National Guard personnel who are current bonus recipients or student loan repayment program recipients should be aware that accepting this permanent/indefinite Military Technician position may lead to termination and/or recoupment of these benefits. Consultation with the VTARNG Incentive Manager is recommended.
Application Steps
- Apply Online: Access the online application through USAJOBS and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit Resume: Create or upload a detailed resume that clearly outlines your qualifications, experience, and accomplishments. Ensure you include specific dates (month/year), job titles, duties performed, and employer information. Describe your experience in your own words.
- Required Documentation: Upload all necessary supporting documents, including your resume, AGO-VT Form 690-5 (signed and dated), and transcripts if claiming education as a qualification. Current federal employees must also submit a copy of their latest SF-50.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review your entire application package for accuracy and completeness before submitting by the closing date: October 31, 2026.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight experiences and skills directly relevant to the Support Services Specialist role and the requirements outlined in the job announcement.
- Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the impact of your work and accomplishments.
- Be Specific with Dates: Always include the month and year for your employment dates to ensure clarity and compliance with requirements.
- Address All Requirements: Ensure your resume and supporting documents explicitly address each of the specialized experience and qualification requirements mentioned in the announcement.
- Proofread Carefully: Before submitting, proofread your entire application for any grammatical errors, typos, or missing information.
The Support Services Specialist position with the Vermont Army National Guard represents an excellent opportunity to leverage your administrative and organizational skills in a meaningful role. By contributing to the operational effectiveness of the Guard, you will play a part in a long-standing tradition of service and dedication. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a challenging and rewarding career, we encourage you to apply.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Support Services Specialist |
| Agency | Vermont Army National Guard |
| Location | Colchester, Vermont |
| Salary Range | $62,982 - $81,882 per year |
| Grade Level | GS-09 |
| Work Type | Full-Time |
| Application Close Date | October 31, 2026 |
| Required Clearance | Secret |
| Key Focus Areas | Records Management, FOIA/PA, Administrative Support, Publications Management |
Why This Support Services Specialist Job Matters
Advance your career in support services with the Vermont Army National Guard! This is a unique opportunity to contribute to vital organizational functions and gain invaluable experience.
Support Services Specialist Job Overview
The Vermont Army National Guard is seeking a dedicated Support Services Specialist to join their Information Management / J6 team in Colchester, Vermont. This Title 32 Excepted Service position offers a chance to play a crucial role in managing records, ensuring compliance with federal regulations, and optimizing administrative processes. If you have a background in administrative support, a knack for organization, and a desire to serve, this could be the perfect fit for you.
Requirements for Support Services Specialist
- Must hold a current military status within the Vermont Army National Guard. Prior service or non-prior service applicants are not eligible.
- Must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance within one year of appointment.
- Possess a valid state driver's license for the state in which you live or are principally employed.
- Experience, education, or training in administrative, professional, technical, or other work that provided knowledge of support services.
- Demonstrated ability to work with people from various levels and backgrounds to ensure cooperation and compliance with procedures, rules, or practices.
- Proficiency in using computer and automation systems.
- Minimum requirements include enlisted ranks from PV1/E1 to SFC/E7.
- Must not have been convicted of a qualifying crime of domestic violence due to the Lautenberg Amendment.
- Ability to establish and maintain effective professional working relationships with colleagues and customers.
- Awareness of environmental responsibilities as dictated by legal and regulatory requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Support Services Specialist
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, demonstrating knowledge of methods and procedures for providing diverse support services.
- Ability to plan, organize, and control work involving a variety of activities.
- Skill in gaining cooperation and coordinating the work of others.
- Proficiency in oral and written communication.
- Experience with management principles and supervisory responsibility for support service functions.
- Knowledge of the theory and principles of management and organization, including administrative practices and procedures.
- Knowledge of administrative principles and techniques for problem analysis, report preparation, and recommendations.
- Skill in applying analytical and evaluative techniques to identify and resolve procedural or factual issues.
- Ability to apply established policies and procedures (e.g., FOIA/PA regulations, records management systems) and provide technical assistance.
- Experience with automated records management systems and electronic records management solutions.
- Experience managing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act (PA) programs.
- Experience assisting with printing and publications management programs.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Unique opportunity within the National Guard.
- ✓Serve your nation, state, and community.
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the organization.
💡 How to Apply Support Services Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Support Services Specialist Job
- Complete the online application and Occupational Questionnaire via USAJOBS.
- Submit all required supporting documentation, including your resume and AGO-VT Form 690-5.
- Ensure your resume details your relevant experience with start/end dates (Month/Year), hours per week, salary, job title, and employer information.
- If claiming education, submit transcripts or documentation to support your claims.
- For federal employees, include a copy of your latest SF-50.
- Verify that all uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan process.
- Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM EST on the closing date of the announcement.
💡 General Tips
- Thoroughly detail your experience on your resume, ensuring it aligns with the specialized experience requirements listed in the announcement. Do not copy the specialized experience qualifications verbatim; describe your personal experience.
- Clearly indicate the start and end dates (Month and Year) for all previous employment and experience.
- Provide specific examples of your accomplishments and responsibilities.
- If education is a requirement or you are using it to qualify, include official transcripts.
- Ensure your resume includes your full name, address, and contact information.
- If you are a current or former federal employee, provide your SF-50.
- Double-check that all required documents are uploaded before submitting your application.
- Be precise with dates and duty descriptions to ensure accurate evaluation of your qualifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for this position?
Eligibility is limited to members of the Vermont Army National Guard who hold a current military status. Prior service or non-prior service applicants are not eligible.
What is the salary range for this position?
The salary ranges from $62,982 to $81,882 per year.
What are the primary responsibilities of a Support Services Specialist?
Key responsibilities include managing official records and information, administering automated records systems, ensuring compliance with NARA, DOD, and DA policies, conducting training on records management, managing the Freedom of Information Act/Privacy Act programs, and assisting with printing and publications management.
Do I need a security clearance for this role?
Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance. Applicants must possess or be able to obtain this clearance within one year of appointment.
What if I am currently receiving military bonuses or involved in a student loan repayment program?
Vermont Army National Guard personnel who are recipients of bonuses or student loan repayment programs may have these benefits terminated or recouped if selected for this permanent/indefinite Military Technician position. It is advised to contact the VTARNG Incentive Manager for clarification.