Launch Your Career: HR Specialist (Benefits & Compensation) at Fairchild AFB
Are you a Human Resources professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Washington National Guard is currently seeking an HR Specialist to join the 141st Air Refueling Wing at Fairchild Air Force Base. This role is essential for ensuring that our dedicated service members receive the support they need regarding benefits, compensation, and personnel administration.
Job Responsibilities
As an HR Specialist (Employee Benefits/Compensation), your daily work will be varied and impactful. Depending on your grade level (GS-07 or GS-09), duties may include:
- Benefits Counseling: Guiding employees through complex retirement systems, life insurance options, and death benefit entitlements.
- Personnel Actions: Using automated systems to process and maintain accurate employee records.
- Compliance & Reporting: Ensuring agency compliance with federal regulations regarding Workers' Compensation, FMLA, and leave programs.
- Technical Advisory: Providing expert advice to management and staff regarding compensation adjustments, back pay, and severance.
Grade Comparison
| Feature | GS-07 Level | GS-09 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibility | Developmental assignments | Full-performance advisory |
| Complexity | Moderate, guided tasks | Independent case management |
| Focus | Learning HR principles | Interpreting laws and regulations |
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills. You need at least 12 months (GS-07) or 24 months (GS-09) of specialized HR experience. Education can also be used as a substitute for experience under specific conditions (graduate-level education).
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary range of $50,723 to $80,662 per year, commensurate with the grade level and experience of the successful candidate.
Benefits
Employees of the Washington National Guard enjoy a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:
- Federal Health and Life Insurance.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for long-term retirement savings.
- Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Opportunities for telework and professional development.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your specific HR experience and ensure it matches the duties listed.
- Mind the Length: Your resume must be two pages or less.
- Provide Documentation: If claiming veterans' or spouse preference, attach all necessary checklists and proof.
- Verify Your Data: Ensure your contact information and employment dates are accurate and complete.
Serving as an HR Specialist for the Washington National Guard is a unique opportunity to use your administrative talents to support those who protect our nation. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application via USAJOBS before the deadline. Your path to a rewarding federal career starts here.
Why This Hr Specialist (Emp Ben / Compensation Job Matters
Launch your career in federal Human Resources and play a vital role in supporting the service members of the Washington National Guard.
Hr Specialist (Emp Ben / Compensation Job Overview
The Washington National Guard is seeking a dedicated HR Specialist (Employee Benefits/Compensation) to serve at the 141st Air Refueling Wing, Fairchild AFB. This position is a critical role within the federal civil service, responsible for providing technical guidance, managing complex compensation and benefits programs, and supporting the personnel needs of our service members and their families. This is a temporary, indefinite position with the potential for conversion to permanent status based on funding and organizational requirements.
Requirements for Hr Specialist (Emp Ben / Compensation
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be able to obtain and maintain appropriate background clearance
- Minimum 12 months of specialized experience for GS-07, or 24 months for GS-09
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and automated personnel systems
- Ability to interpret and apply complex federal HR regulations
- Must submit a resume not exceeding two pages
Preferred Qualifications for Hr Specialist (Emp Ben / Compensation
- Direct experience with Department of Defense, Air Force, or Army HR systems
- Demonstrated ability to manage retirement, life insurance, and workers' compensation case files
- Prior experience providing management advisory services regarding federal leave programs
- Knowledge of National Guard organizational structures and Title 5 civilian personnel procedures
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Health and Life Insurance
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid Federal Holidays
- ✓Sick and Annual Leave Accrual
- ✓Potential for career advancement within the federal system
- ✓Telework eligibility as permitted by agency policy
💡 How to Apply Hr Specialist (Emp Ben / Compensation Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Hr Specialist (Emp Ben / Compensation Job
- Prepare a resume that specifically addresses the required HR competencies and specialized experience.
- Ensure your resume includes dates of employment (month/year), hours worked per week, and grade/series for federal positions.
- Log in or create an account on USAJOBS.
- Complete the online Occupational Questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, such as SF-50s or transcripts, well before the closing date.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must be your own work; do not copy the vacancy announcement text.
- Keep your resume concise—it will not be considered if it exceeds two pages.
- Ensure your SF-50s clearly support your specialized experience claims.
- Double-check your application package status on USAJOBS before the deadline.
- If you qualify for veterans' preference or military spouse preference, ensure the required documentation is attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'Indefinite' appointment mean?
It means the position is temporary and not permanent at this time. However, if funding and staffing needs allow, there is potential for conversion to a permanent technician status.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to the public, military spouses, and veterans.
Is a security clearance required?
No, this position is non-sensitive/low risk.
Can I work from home?
This role is telework eligible, subject to agency policy and supervisor approval.
Job from Air National Guard Units
The National Guard remains a pillar of our nation's defense, rooted in a history of citizen-soldiers who stand ready to assist during local and national emergencies. By joining the Washington National Guard civilian team, you become part of an organization that values integrity, service, and excellence.