Become a Leader in Workforce Relations: Supervisory HR Specialist at the NIH
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is synonymous with global innovation in medicine and health research. Beyond the laboratories and researchers, a dedicated team of administrative professionals ensures that the agency functions at its highest potential. We are looking for two experienced Supervisory Human Resources Specialists (ER/LR) to join the Office of Human Resources (OHR) and lead teams that keep our workforce empowered and compliant.
Job Responsibilities
These leadership roles are divided into two distinct focal areas:
- Team C Lead: Focuses on serving as an organizational expert on Employee and Labor Relations (ER/LR) policies. You will mentor specialists and advise executive leaders within various NIH Institutes and Centers.
- Team D Lead: Acts as the program manager for NIH’s centralized performance management and awards initiatives. You will ensure agency-wide compliance with OPM guidance and support performance-based actions.
Core Duties
- Interpreting complex federal labor laws and regulations.
- Managing conduct and performance-based actions.
- Providing technical supervision to HR specialists.
- Negotiating and justifying changes in HR policy.
Comparison Table: Role Focal Areas
| Feature | Team C (ER/LR) | Team D (Performance Mgmt) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Employee & Labor Relations | Performance & Awards |
| Key Partnering | Executive Leadership/ICOs | OPM & Agency Compliance |
| Oversight | Case work & LR partnerships | Agency-wide initiative programs |
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-14 position, you must demonstrate at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level. Your resume must clearly reflect your expertise in resolving complex HR issues, providing technical assistance to staff, and interpreting federal guidelines.
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-14 level, with an annual salary range of $125,776 to $187,093. This compensation reflects the high level of technical and supervisory expertise required for the role.
Benefits
- Flexible work schedules (telework/compressed shifts).
- Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
- A workplace culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Meaningful career growth in a federal environment.
Application Tips
- Edit relentlessly: Stick to the two-page limit.
- Customize: Don't copy-paste job descriptions; share your own experiences.
- Stay Alert: Watch for assessment links sent via email.
If you are ready to pivot into a leadership role where your HR strategy directly supports the world's leading research organization, apply for this Supervisory Human Resources Specialist position today.
Why This Supervisory Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations / Labor Relations) Job Matters
Shape the future of workforce excellence at the world's premier biomedical research agency. Lead high-impact HR teams at the NIH and drive organizational success.
Supervisory Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations / Labor Relations) Job Overview
The National Institutes of Health (NIH), Office of Human Resources (OHR), is seeking two strategic, experienced leaders to serve as Supervisory Human Resources Specialists. Based within the Workforce Relations Division, these roles oversee critical Employee Relations, Labor Relations, and Performance Management functions. You will lead teams of dedicated professionals, providing expert guidance to senior leadership while ensuring organizational compliance with federal regulations. This is an exceptional opportunity to influence policy and foster a supportive, high-performance work environment across one of the most prestigious research institutions in the world.
Requirements for Supervisory Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations / Labor Relations)
- At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 grade level (or equivalent in private/public sector).
- Expert knowledge of employee relations, labor relations, and performance management policies.
- Experience providing technical oversight and reviewing case work for validity and regulatory compliance.
- Ability to advise senior management on complex conduct and performance-based actions.
- Expertise in interpreting federal labor law, Executive Orders, and agency policies.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations / Labor Relations)
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate and defend HR policy changes.
- Proven experience in centralized performance management and awards program administration.
- Strong interpersonal skills for building relationships with diverse institutional leaders.
- Ability to manage both technical and administrative HR operations simultaneously.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- ✓Flexible work arrangements, including potential telework and compressed schedules.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the NIH/HHS system.
- ✓Access to a wide range of work-life balance initiatives.
- ✓Meaningful work supporting global biomedical and health research.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations / Labor Relations) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Human Resources Specialist (Employee Relations / Labor Relations) Job
- Submit your application through the official portal before the closing date.
- Upload a resume (strictly two pages or less) detailing specific experience, accomplishments, and GS grade/series.
- Complete the mandatory online application questionnaire.
- Await notification via email regarding the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment.
- Complete the required assessments within 48 hours of notification.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less; only the first two pages will be read by the hiring team.
- Do not copy the vacancy announcement text into your resume; provide specific, unique examples of your achievements.
- Ensure your resume includes employment dates, hours worked, and specific details regarding your supervisory experience.
- Monitor your junk and spam email folders for notifications regarding the USA Hire assessment.
- Prepare your supporting documents, such as SF-50 forms, well in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work remotely?
This position is designated as a non-emergency/teleworker position. While not a fully remote role, the position offers telework and flexible schedule options at the supervisor's discretion.
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must be two pages or less. Any information beyond two pages will not be reviewed.
Is a drug test required?
No, a drug test is not required for this specific position.
What is the most common reason for disqualification?
Exceeding the two-page resume limit or failing to provide specific, verifiable evidence of GS-13 equivalent experience.
Job from National Institutes Of Health
As a core component of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the NIH is the world's leading biomedical research funding organization. With 27 distinct Institutes and Centers, the NIH fosters a complex, high-stakes, and rewarding environment. Joining the OHR means playing a vital role in supporting the 18,000 employees who work every day to save lives and improve health outcomes.