Advance Your Career: Administrative Officer with the U.S. Geological Survey
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) is currently accepting applications for an Administrative Officer (GS-12) to support the New Mexico Water Science Center. This role is pivotal in ensuring the smooth operational, financial, and personnel functions necessary for the USGS to carry out its mission of monitoring natural resources. If you have a passion for operational excellence and want to serve within the Department of the Interior, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a world-class scientific organization.
Job Responsibilities
As an Administrative Officer, you will serve as the primary advisor to management on all business operations. Your key responsibilities will include:
- Budget Oversight: Tracking expenditures, verifying compliance with financial plans, and recommending corrective actions.
- Human Resources Management: Overseeing recruitment, staffing plans, and performance management for staff.
- Business Process Improvement: Analyzing organizational needs and recommending improvements to enhance management effectiveness.
- Operational Support: Managing procurement, travel, property, and space management initiatives.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must meet specific federal standards.
| Requirement Category | Standard |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience Level | One year at GS-11 equivalent |
| Education Substitution | Not applicable |
| Assessment | USA Hire Assessment required if prompted |
| Background Check | Required (NCS/High Risk) |
Salary and Benefits
The GS-12 position offers a competitive salary range of $89,508 to $117,625 per year. Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package including health, life, and long-term care insurance, as well as a generous retirement plan through the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Application Tips
To maximize your chances of success:
- Be Concise: Ensure your resume is exactly two pages long and covers all specialized experience.
- Document Hours: Clearly state your hours per week (e.g., '40 hours/week') for every position.
- Submit Early: Do not wait until the November 12, 2026, deadline to submit your documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What if I have volunteer experience? A: Volunteer experience, including Peace Corps or AmeriCorps, counts toward your specialized experience if it demonstrates the required competencies.
Q: Is relocation provided? A: No, relocation is not offered for this position.
Serving as an Administrative Officer for the USGS is a prestigious opportunity to blend high-level business acumen with the mission of preserving our natural resources. By ensuring the operational success of the New Mexico Water Science Center, you play a silent but vital role in the success of federal science. Start your application today.
Why This Administrative Officer Job Matters
Advance your administrative career with the U.S. Geological Survey in New Mexico, where your leadership will directly support vital scientific operations.
Administrative Officer Job Overview
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), under the Department of the Interior, is seeking a motivated Administrative Officer to join the New Mexico Water Science Center. This role is a vital component of the administrative infrastructure, providing expert oversight of business processes, budget execution, human resources, and operational logistics. The position offers a dynamic environment across several potential duty stations in New Mexico, contributing to the agency's critical mission of monitoring and predicting Earth-system interactions.
Requirements for Administrative Officer
- Must be a U.S. Citizen or National.
- Must pass a background investigation and credentialing process.
- Males born after 12-31-59 must register for Selective Service.
- Participation in Direct Deposit is mandatory.
- Must complete E-Verify employment check.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel and purchase card.
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-11 grade level.
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two single-sided pages.
- Submission of most recent performance appraisal.
- Completion of the USA Hire Assessment if prompted.
Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Officer
- Demonstrated expertise in federal budget execution and financial monitoring.
- Strong background in managing complex administrative operations including procurement and property management.
- Experience advising management on human resources functions such as staffing and organizational structure.
- Ability to develop performance standards and provide effective staff supervision.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Federal Health Insurance
- ✓Retirement Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid Time Off (Annual and Sick Leave)
- ✓Federal Holidays
- ✓Life Insurance Options
- ✓Telework Opportunities
💡 How to Apply Administrative Officer Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Administrative Officer Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement details.
- Prepare a federal-style resume (max 2 pages) detailing your experience and hours worked.
- Gather necessary documentation, including SF-50s and performance appraisals.
- Submit your application through the USAJOBS portal before the deadline.
- Complete the required USA Hire Assessment if notified.
- Monitor your application status via your USAJOBS account.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume strictly adheres to the 2-page limit and font size requirements.
- Explicitly state 'full-time' or 'part-time' (with hours per week) in your resume for all relevant experience.
- Submit your most recent performance appraisal to ensure your application package is considered complete.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessment in one sitting if required.
- Use the USAJOBS Help Center to verify how to document federal experience correctly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for the specialized experience required?
No, this position requires professional specialized experience and does not allow for the substitution of education.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is suitable for telework, subject to supervisor approval.
What is the page limit for the resume?
The resume must not exceed two single-sided pages; any content beyond that will not be considered.
Job from Geological Survey
The Department of the Interior (DOI) manages the nation's natural resources and cultural heritage. Within the DOI, the USGS stands as the primary scientific bureau. The USGS provides actionable data on natural hazards, ecosystems, and environmental health, directly influencing decision-makers at local and federal levels. Working for the New Mexico Water Science Center means you are at the heart of science-driven solutions for one of the most water-critical regions in the United States.