Launch Your Accounting Career with NIST

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is currently seeking a highly skilled Accountant to join its Financial Operations Division. This is an exceptional opportunity for professionals looking to apply their financial acumen within a federal agency dedicated to industrial and scientific advancement. If you thrive on precision, internal controls, and financial reporting, this role offers a stable and rewarding career path in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Job Responsibilities

As an Accounts Receivable Accountant, you will serve as a technical advisor and an operational leader. Your primary duties will include:

Operational Management: Overseeing billing, collections, and financing activities.
Discrepancy Resolution: Investigating and solving complex payment discrepancies.
Strategic Oversight: Developing and implementing improvements to internal control policies and financial systems.
Technical Advising: Interpreting federal financial regulations to ensure compliance across the department.

Comparison of Qualifications

Level	Specialized Experience Requirement
ZA-II	Equivalent to GS-7; focused on billing, collections, and basic data analysis.
ZA-III	Equivalent to GS-11; focused on complex financial reporting, internal controls, and systems evaluation.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, you must meet the basic educational requirements: a degree in accounting or a related field (business administration, finance, or public administration) with 24 semester hours in accounting. Alternatively, a combination of professional experience and education may be accepted. All applicants must submit official or unofficial transcripts to verify their eligibility.

Salary Overview

The salary range for this position is $70,623 to $158,322 per year. Compensation is determined under the APMS pay-for-performance system, rewarding high achievement and dedication to the mission.

Benefits

NIST provides a comprehensive federal benefits package, including:

Health and life insurance options.
Retirement savings programs (FERS).
Work-life balance through flexible scheduling.
Extensive professional development and training.

Application Tips

Respect the Resume Limit: You are allowed exactly two pages. Ensure your font is 11 points or larger.
Detail Your Experience: Clearly state hours per week for every job entry to ensure proper credit.
Assessments: Be ready to complete the USA Hire assessment; allow yourself sufficient, uninterrupted time to finish.

This position represents a unique blend of financial rigor and public service. By working at NIST, you contribute to the backbone of American innovation. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to submit your application before the closing date to join our team of financial experts.

Why This Accountant Job Matters

Join the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) as an Accountant and help drive financial integrity at the forefront of American innovation.

Accountant Job Overview

NIST is seeking a detail-oriented Accountant to join the Accounts Receivable Group within the Financial Operations Division in Gaithersburg, Maryland. This role is pivotal in maintaining the accuracy of financial data, managing accounts receivable operations, and serving as a technical expert on federal accounting standards.

Requirements for Accountant

Possess a degree in accounting or a related business field with at least 24 semester hours in accounting (including up to 6 hours of business law).
Alternatively, hold a combination of education and experience equivalent to 4 years of accounting work.
For the ZA-II level: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-7, including data analysis and managing accounts receivable/billing.
For the ZA-III level: Must have one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-11, including complex reconciliations and internal control evaluation.
Submission of transcripts is mandatory for all applicants.
Must adhere to a strict two-page limit for resumes; resumes exceeding this will not be fully reviewed.

Preferred Qualifications for Accountant

Experience in federal financial management systems.
Strong proficiency in reconciling complex financial statements.
Demonstrated ability to interpret and apply federal financial regulations.
Excellent skills in strategic process improvement for financial operations.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary under the APMS pay-for-performance system.
✓Comprehensive federal health and life insurance options.
✓Generous retirement plans including FERS.
✓Work-life balance flexibilities.
✓Paid time off and federal holidays.

💡 How to Apply Accountant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Accountant Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume no longer than two pages, formatted as a PDF.
Click the 'Apply Online' button and complete the required questionnaires.
Attach all required documentation, including transcripts.
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on the closing date.
Monitor your email for a link to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically lists the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
The two-page resume limit is strict; ensure your font size is 11 points or larger for readability.
Tailor your resume to highlight the specific specialized experience mentioned in the job duties.
Do not wait until the last minute to submit; the USA Hire assessment requires at least 3 hours of focused time.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the pay system for this position?

This role is covered under NIST's Alternative Personnel Management System (APMS), which is a pay-for-performance structure.

Can I submit a longer resume?

No. Only the first two pages of your resume will be considered during the structured review process.

Is a security clearance required?

No formal clearance is required, but the position is designated as Noncritical-Sensitive/Moderate Risk.

Job from National Institute Of Standards And Technology

NIST, a bureau within the U.S. Department of Commerce, operates at the cutting edge of science and technology. By supporting innovation, NIST plays a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for all Americans. The Financial Operations Division ensures that the agency’s resources are managed with the utmost integrity, adhering to stringent federal accounting standards.