Launch Your Federal Career as a Government Information Specialist at CMS
Are you seeking a career that blends regulatory compliance, research, and public service? The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is hiring a Government Information Specialist to join the Office of Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs (OSORA) in Woodlawn, Maryland. This role is essential for ensuring that the government remains transparent while protecting the sensitive health data of millions of Americans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Government Information Specialist, you will perform critical duties, including:
- Processing Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Privacy Act requests.
- Safeguarding Personally Identifiable Information (PII).
- Researching legislative developments and court decisions affecting data disclosure.
- Providing guidance to organizational directorates on complex information release policies.
Requirements
To be considered, candidates must provide a comprehensive, two-page resume. Specific requirements include:
- Proven experience at the GS-07 or GS-09 level (depending on the target grade).
- Detailed employment history including start/end dates and hours worked.
- U.S. Citizenship documentation.
- Successful completion of the USA Hire online assessment.
Salary and Grade Overview
| Grade Level | Salary Range (Annual) |
|---|---|
| GS-09/11 | $70,623 - $111,087 |
Benefits
CMS offers a robust federal benefits package, including health, life, and long-term care insurance, as well as a generous retirement plan with Thrift Savings Plan matching. Employees also benefit from leave accrual and the potential for flexible work schedules.
Application Tips
- Use the Resume Builder: This ensures you don't miss required fields like 'hours per week'.
- Be Specific: Describe your actual duties in the context of FOIA/Privacy, rather than just listing job titles.
- Mind the Deadline: While open until 2026, early application is encouraged to meet the initial referral cutoff.
If you have a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to public transparency, this role with CMS is an excellent path to a long-term federal career. Apply via USAJOBS to start your journey today.
Why This Government Information Specialist Job Matters
Launch a impactful career at the forefront of national healthcare policy as a Government Information Specialist with the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
Government Information Specialist Job Overview
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is seeking dedicated professionals to serve as Government Information Specialists within the Office of Strategic Operations and Regulatory Affairs. In this role, you will be a vital link in the transparent management of public data, handling Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests, Privacy Act compliance, and the protection of Personally Identifiable Information (PII). This position offers a unique chance to work within a high-visibility, fast-paced federal environment, directly supporting the agency's mission to improve healthcare quality and efficiency across the nation.
Requirements for Government Information Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship status must be indicated on the resume.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements equivalent to the GS-07 (for GS-09) or GS-09 (for GS-11) level.
- Resume limited to a maximum of two pages.
- Must include full employment history including start/end dates (mm/yyyy), hours worked per week, and salary.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Must pass online USA Hire assessments.
- Submission of college transcripts if using education to qualify.
Preferred Qualifications for Government Information Specialist
- Demonstrated experience in processing FOIA and Privacy Act requests.
- Ability to analyze complex legislative activities and court decisions related to information disclosure.
- Proven track record of maintaining confidentiality with sensitive records.
- Experience in providing briefings or guidance to senior management on policy execution.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
- ✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401k) with government matching.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Flexible working arrangements and alternative work schedules.
💡 How to Apply Government Information Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Government Information Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages) including specific series/grade if applicable.
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Upload required documentation such as transcripts and SF-50s.
- Submit your application through the online portal.
- Complete the required USA Hire assessment within the specified timeframe upon receiving your unique access link.
- Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure all mandatory data fields (series, grade, hours per week) are included.
- Clearly document your specialized experience; avoid copying and pasting verbatim from the job description.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessment in one sitting.
- Submit your application well in advance of the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly mentions your U.S. citizenship status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum length allowed for the resume?
Resumes for this position are strictly limited to two pages or less.
Can I substitute my education for professional experience?
Yes, graduate-level education (Master's for GS-09, Ph.D. for GS-11) or specific amounts of graduate credit hours can be used to qualify for these positions.
How often will applications be reviewed?
This is an open continuous announcement. The initial cutoff is 10/29/2026, with subsequent referrals occurring at 3-week intervals.
Is a degree required?
*A: A degree is not strictly required if you have equivalent specialized experience, but education can be used to satisfy qualification requirements.*
What is the work location policy?
*A: This position requires regular, recurring attendance at the Woodlawn office, though flexible schedules may be available.*
Job from Centers For Medicare & Medicaid Services
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is a cornerstone of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). CMS manages programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and the Health Insurance Marketplace. Working here means contributing to the nation’s health system and participating in a high-impact, professional environment dedicated to excellence in public service.