Launch Your Career with the National Park Service: Program Specialist Opportunity

Are you looking for a role that combines administrative precision with the preservation of America's most iconic landscapes? The National Park Service (NPS) is currently hiring a Program Specialist at the Office of the Superintendent in Thurmont, Maryland. This role offers the unique opportunity to manage the internal financial and administrative machinery that allows our parks to thrive.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Specialist (GS-09), you are the backbone of administrative operations. Your daily duties will include:

Budget Management: Assisting managers with tracking funds and coordinating the budgeting process.
Financial Reporting: Analyzing expenditures, historical trends, and account structures to provide actionable data to leadership.
Administrative Oversight: Processing invoices, resolving accounting discrepancies, and maintaining property inventories.
Timekeeping: Managing payroll processes and advising staff on administrative policies.

Requirements

To qualify, candidates must be U.S. Citizens. You must also demonstrate specialized experience at the GS-07 level or hold a graduate degree in fields such as Finance, Business, or Public Administration.

Quick Qualification Comparison

Qualification Type	Requirement Criteria
Experience	1 year at GS-07 equivalent (must state hours per week)
Education	Master's degree or 2 years of graduate study
Hybrid	Combination of experience and education totaling 100%

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $61,722 to $80,243 per year. Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including comprehensive health insurance, federal retirement programs, and generous paid time off.

Application Tips for Success

Mind the Format: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use a font size of at least 10-point.
Be Specific: Explicitly state the hours worked per week for every position to ensure your experience is counted.
Documentation: Always include your most recent signed performance appraisal. If you don't have one, provide a formal statement explaining why.

This role is an excellent step for those seeking to transition into higher-level federal administration. By ensuring financial efficiency, you directly contribute to the mission of the National Park Service. Apply by the closing date to be considered for this vital team role.

Why This Program Specialist Job Matters

Take charge of financial operations in the heart of nature with the National Park Service.

Program Specialist Job Overview

The Office of the Superintendent is seeking a detail-oriented Program Specialist to support administrative operations in Thurmont, Maryland. This role is essential for the effective management of park business, requiring expertise in budget oversight, financial analysis, and daily administrative support. You will serve as a key advisor to park management, ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently to preserve our natural and cultural heritage.

Requirements for Program Specialist

Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
Must pass a background investigation for suitability.
Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license.
Must be able to complete training and obtain a government credit card.
Must serve a 1-year probationary period.
Must pass the E-Verify employment check.
Must provide a 2-page maximum resume formatted as required.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Specialist

One year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level (or equivalent).
Master's degree or 2 years of progressively higher-level graduate education in Business, Finance, Public Administration, or Accounting.
Proven experience in resolving database discrepancies and invoice processing.
Proficiency in maintaining supply inventories and property accountability.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal health insurance programs
✓Retirement savings plans (FERS)
✓Paid time off and federal holidays
✓Opportunities for professional development and training
✓Telework eligibility as approved by supervisor

💡 How to Apply Program Specialist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Specialist Job

Preview the application questionnaire online.
Create or update your USAJOBS account.
Prepare a resume that does not exceed 2 pages, including hours worked per week.
Submit your resume, performance appraisals, and official transcripts.
Complete the online application questionnaire and required assessments by the deadline.
Monitor your status through the USAJOBS portal.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume specifically mentions 'full-time' or total hours worked per week to verify specialized experience.
Do not exceed the two-page limit; extra pages will be discarded.
Submit your most recent performance appraisal signed by a supervisor.
Select all eligibilities (e.g., CTAP) that apply to you and provide supporting documentation.
Check your USAJOBS account frequently for updates after applying.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this position eligible for telework?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework with supervisor approval.

Do I need to submit an official transcript?

Unofficial transcripts are acceptable during the application phase, but you must provide official transcripts prior to your start date if selected.

What is the maximum length for my resume?

Your resume must not exceed 2 single-sided pages. Resumes longer than this will not be reviewed.

What if I do not have a performance appraisal?

*A: You must submit a statement explaining why one is unavailable.*

Can I submit my resume in Adobe Portfolio format?

*A: No, please do not use portfolio documents.*

Will I have to travel?

*A: Yes, occasionally, you may need to travel 1-2 nights per month.*

Job from National Park Service

The Department of the Interior and the National Park Service are dedicated to the stewardship of our nation's natural and cultural resources. Working with the NPS means contributing to a mission that spans generations—protecting the history, environment, and beauty of our public lands for all to enjoy.