Become a Project Management Specialist with the Defense Finance and Accounting Service
Are you a seasoned project manager looking to apply your expertise toward a mission that truly matters? The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is currently seeking a Project Management Specialist to join our Strategy and Support division. This GS-13 role is designed for professionals who can navigate the complexities of large-scale, enterprise-wide initiatives while ensuring strict adherence to agency standards and strategic goals.
Job Responsibilities
As a Project Management Specialist, you will be expected to:
- Provide expert analysis of enterprise-wide initiatives, projects, and portfolios.
- Act as a professional advisor, ensuring project alignment with agency strategic objectives.
- Develop and execute essential project documentation, including charters, risk management plans, and communication plans.
- Lead multi-disciplinary teams through project planning sessions, including scope and objective setting.
- Utilize advanced tools like MS Project Professional to maintain work breakdown structures and schedules.
- Brief senior executives on potential risks and project statuses.
Requirements
Success in this role requires a blend of tactical skill and strategic thinking. Key requirements include:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-12 level (or equivalent).
- Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated experience in managing the full lifecycle of complex projects.
- Documentation: A resume detailing comprehensive work experience.
- Assessment: Completion of the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
Salary Overview
This position is a GS-13 grade level, offering a highly competitive annual salary range:
| Pay Period | Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Annual | $106,437 - $144,386 |
Benefits
Working with the Department of Defense offers a comprehensive federal benefits package designed to support your long-term success, including competitive health insurance, retirement options, and a supportive environment for career advancement.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume clearly maps your experience to the duties mentioned in the announcement.
- Prepare for Assessments: Set aside at least 3 hours for the USA Hire assessments to ensure you can provide your best responses.
- Check Deadlines: All application materials must be received by 11:59 PM (ET) on November 2, 2026.
If you are ready to pivot your project management career toward a meaningful national security mission, this is the opportunity you have been waiting for. With multiple locations and a clear impact on agency strategy, your work will directly support the efficiency of the U.S. federal service. Apply today to begin your journey with DFAS.
Why This Project Management Specialist Job Matters
Take your project management expertise to the next level by driving strategic financial initiatives for the Department of Defense as a Project Management Specialist.
Project Management Specialist Job Overview
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is currently seeking a highly skilled Project Management Specialist to support our Strategy, Policy, and Requirements division. This role is instrumental in ensuring that large-scale agency projects are executed with precision, adherence to standards, and strategic alignment. You will act as a key advisor to senior leadership, providing risk assessment, project planning, and lifecycle oversight. This position is ideal for experienced professionals who thrive in complex environments and are committed to supporting the vital mission of the DoD.
Requirements for Project Management Specialist
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-12 level.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex project lifecycles from initiation to closure.
- Experience developing project management plans, charters, risk assessments, and work breakdown structures.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a secret clearance or higher as required by the sensitive nature of the position.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume detailing relevant experience and accomplishments.
- Successful completion of the required USA Hire Assessment tools.
Preferred Qualifications for Project Management Specialist
- Active Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.
- Proficiency in MS Office 365, specifically MS Project Professional.
- Experience briefing senior executives on risk and strategic project impacts.
- Background in financial or accounting project environments.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Competitive salary range within the GS-13 bracket.
- ✓Potential for relocation expense reimbursement.
- ✓Meaningful work supporting the men and women who defend the nation.
- ✓Structured career development and training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Project Management Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Project Management Specialist Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account and locate the job announcement.
- Review all eligibility requirements to ensure you meet the criteria.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages, highlighting specific project management accomplishments.
- Click the Apply Online button and answer all application questions.
- Submit your resume and any required documentation, such as an SF-50 if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within 48 hours of receiving your unique access link via email.
- Monitor your application status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Federal resumes differ from private sector resumes; be extremely detailed regarding the scope and results of your project management experience.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature in USAJOBS to stay updated on your assessment completion status.
- Ensure all supporting documents (like certifications or transcripts) are clearly labeled and attached before the closing date.
- If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessment, initiate the request early in the process as per the guidance provided.
- Double-check that your resume explicitly mentions your proficiency in project management tools and methodologies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the PMP certification mandatory?
While not strictly mandatory to apply, the PMP certification is highly preferred, and preference will be given to candidates who possess it. If you do not have one, you are strongly encouraged to pursue it upon selection.
What is the primary assessment used for this role?
The agency uses the USA Hire Assessment to evaluate core competencies. You will receive an email with instructions and a link after your initial application submission.
Can I work remotely?
Telework is very limited and is generally only approved on a rare, case-by-case basis when deemed a compelling need by Agency Leadership.
Job from Defense Finance And Accounting Service
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) serves as the backbone of financial operations for the Department of Defense. Our mission is to lead the DoD in providing efficient, high-quality pay and financial information. We pride ourselves on serving the men and women who defend our country, and we look for goal-oriented individuals who are ready for the challenge of working within a high-stakes, federal environment.