Launch Your Career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Support Services Specialist
Are you looking for a stable, rewarding career that combines professional growth with public service? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring a Support Services Specialist in Rock Island, Illinois. This role is an excellent entry point into the federal civil service, offering a clear career ladder and the chance to contribute to the nation's critical engineering missions.
Job Responsibilities
As a Support Services Specialist, your daily contributions will be essential to the efficiency of the Geotechnical Branch. Your responsibilities will scale as you advance through the GS grade levels, focusing on:
- Managing calendars and coordinating branch meetings.
- Processing personnel actions and facilitating new employee onboarding.
- Acting as a branch cardholder for government purchases.
- Maintaining property inventories and monitoring training requirements.
- Drafting correspondence and tracking budget information.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must meet the following baseline criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Background: Ability to pass a suitability and fitness investigation.
- Education/Experience: Must meet specialized experience requirements for the specific grade level (GS-05, 06, or 07) or provide qualifying educational transcripts.
- Resume Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Agency | U.S. Army Corps of Engineers |
| Location | Rock Island, Illinois |
| Salary Range | $41,386 - $66,647 per year |
| Series/Grade | GS-0342-05/06/07 |
| Work Type | Full-Time, Competitive Service |
Salary Overview
This position is classified under the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, with a salary range between $41,386 and $66,647. Salary is determined based on the applicant's experience and the selected grade level, including applicable locality pay adjustments.
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
- Competitive retirement plans (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) matching.
- Generous paid leave, including 11 federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- Flexible work arrangements and potential for telework.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of selection:
- Read Everything: Review the USAJobs announcement in detail before applying.
- Follow Format: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less.
- Detail Your Work: Use clear language to explain how your previous work matches the specialized experience requirements.
- Proof of Eligibility: Include all required documentation (SF-50s, transcripts) to prove you meet the application criteria.
Serving as a Support Services Specialist at the Rock Island District is an exceptional opportunity to build a career while supporting the vital work of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. If you are prepared to bring your skills to a high-impact team, review the official posting and submit your application today.
Why This Support Services Specialist Job Matters
Launch your administrative career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and play a vital role in the infrastructure projects that shape our nation.
Support Services Specialist Job Overview
The Rock Island District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is seeking a motivated Support Services Specialist to join the Geotechnical Branch. This role is a career-ladder position, offering the opportunity to grow from a GS-05 or GS-06 level up to a GS-07 full performance level. You will provide essential administrative support, coordinate branch operations, and manage key resource processes within a mission-critical federal environment.
Requirements for Support Services Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must register for Selective Service.
- Must undergo a suitability and fitness background investigation.
- May be required to serve a one-year probationary period.
- Must have 52 weeks of federal service at the next lower grade level if currently in a GS position.
- Must meet specialized experience requirements or educational substitutions specific to the target grade level.
Preferred Qualifications for Support Services Specialist
- Strong proficiency in administrative support, including file management and office automation.
- Demonstrated experience in budget tracking, travel coordination, and personnel action processing.
- Excellent interpersonal skills for serving as a primary point of contact.
- Proven ability to manage office supplies, equipment inventories, and procurement processes.
- Graduate-level education in public administration, business administration, or related management fields (for GS-07 qualification).
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance plans.
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching contributions.
- ✓Paid federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Flexible telework options available.
💡 How to Apply Support Services Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Support Services Specialist Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully for eligibility criteria.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting specific duties and time-in-grade.
- Click the online application link and complete the required questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, including transcripts and SF-50 forms.
- Submit your application package by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
- Monitor your email for a notification regarding the USA Hire Assessment requirement.
- Complete the required online assessments within 48 hours of notification.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is strictly enforced and applications exceeding this will be disqualified.
- Use clear, professional language and avoid excessive jargon or acronyms.
- Provide specific dates (month/year) and hours per week for all previous employment to prove experience.
- Ensure all transcripts are attached if you are using education to qualify for the position.
- Check your application status regularly through your account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the career ladder potential for this position?
This position allows for promotion from the entry level (GS-05/06) to the full performance level of GS-07.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, relevant volunteer work, including internships and national service programs, is credited toward your specialized experience.
Is a security clearance required?
No, a security clearance is not required; however, you must undergo standard suitability and fitness vetting.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this position.
What is the USA Hire assessment?
It is a competency-based test used to measure skills such as attention to detail and teamwork. You will receive a unique link after submitting your application.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the world's premier engineering and construction management agencies. We deliver vital infrastructure solutions that strengthen our nation's security and economy. Joining our team means collaborating with expert professionals who are dedicated to innovation and public safety. When you "Build Strong" with us, you are part of a legacy of excellence.