Launch Your Federal Career as an Accounting Technician with DFAS
Are you seeking a career that combines analytical rigor with a mission-driven purpose? The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is currently hiring motivated Accounting Technicians to support the Department of Defense. This is a unique opportunity to gain experience within one of the largest financial organizations in the world, ensuring that those who defend our nation receive the highest quality of financial support.
Job Responsibilities
As an Accounting Technician, your role will be developmental, designed to grow your skills in federal financial management. Key responsibilities include:
- Researching current accounts, historical data, and source documents.
- Balancing and reconciling complex financial accounts.
- Verifying the validity of obligations, expenditures, and disbursements.
- Assisting in the maintenance of Internal Control Programs to detect and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse.
Requirements
To be considered for these positions, applicants must meet specific federal qualifications:
- Must be a United States citizen.
- One year of specialized experience in clerical or financial transaction processing.
- Proficiency in data input and document verification.
- Successful completion of background check requirements.
Grade Level Comparison
| Feature | GS-05 | GS-06 |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Transaction Support | Advanced Financial Tasks |
| Education Sub. | 4 years post-high school | 6 months graduate study |
| Complexity | Standardized Procedures | Invalid/Incorrect Correction |
Salary Overview
Positions are currently open at the GS-05 and GS-06 levels. The salary range for these roles is $41,115 to $61,638 per year, depending on qualifications and geographic location. Pay for first-time federal hires is typically set at the Step 1 rate.
Benefits
Joining the federal workforce comes with a robust package of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive health insurance options.
- Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) participation.
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- Paid federal holidays and sick leave.
- Opportunities for professional certification, including the DoD Financial Management (FM) Certification.
Application Tips
- Be Precise: Ensure your resume is no longer than two pages.
- Review Documents: Double-check that your transcripts, SF-50s, and any priority placement checklists are included before submitting.
- Monitor Status: Use the USAJOBS portal regularly to track your application progress.
Serving the Department of Defense as an Accounting Technician is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the mission of national defense. With locations in Indianapolis, Cleveland, and Columbus, there are multiple opportunities for you to grow your career. Apply today to secure your place in a stable, rewarding federal environment.
Why This Accounting Technician Job Matters
Launch your career in federal finance with the Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS). We are seeking motivated individuals to support the men and women who defend America through expert accounting operations.
Accounting Technician Job Overview
The Defense Finance and Accounting Service (DFAS) is currently hiring Accounting Technicians to join our dynamic team. This role is essential to maintaining the integrity of Department of Defense financial records. Whether you are balancing accounts, researching historical data, or verifying the accuracy of complex financial transactions, your work directly supports our mission to provide world-class financial services to the DoD. These positions are located in Indianapolis, IN, as well as Cleveland and Columbus, OH.
Requirements for Accounting Technician
- Must be a United States citizen.
- One year of specialized or generalized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- For GS-05: Experience in clerical or administrative business transaction processing.
- For GS-06: Experience in financial transaction processing, including data input and document verification.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Level 1 Certification under the DoD Financial Management (FM) Certification Program within two years.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a favorable security determination.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume.
Preferred Qualifications for Accounting Technician
- Prior experience with automated financial information systems.
- Strong analytical skills regarding account reconciliation and research.
- Graduate-level education (for GS-06) in a directly related financial field.
- Familiarity with Internal Control Program requirements to prevent waste and fraud.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- βCompetitive federal salary and step increases.
- βComprehensive health insurance plans.
- βFederal retirement benefits, including pension and TSP.
- βLife and long-term care insurance options.
- βProfessional development and certification support.
- βStable career growth opportunities within the Department of Defense.
π‘ How to Apply Accounting Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Accounting Technician Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account or create a new profile.
- Upload a two-page maximum resume highlighting relevant experience.
- Submit all required supporting documents, such as transcripts or SF-50 forms, by the closing date.
- Complete the online application questionnaire thoroughly.
- Submit your application and monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.
- If requested, participate in the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
π‘ General Tips
- Use the two-page resume limit as a guide for conciseness; focus on results rather than long task lists.
- Double-check your application for missing documents, as errors often lead to automatic disqualification.
- Ensure your transcript is attached if you are using education to qualify for the position.
- Monitor your email for communications regarding security screenings and assessment invitations.
- Verify that your SF-50 clearly shows your tenure and highest grade held if you are a current or former federal employee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute education for experience?
Yes. For the GS-05 level, four years of post-high school education can be substituted for experience. For the GS-06 level, six months of directly related graduate education may be qualifying.
Is a security clearance required?
Yes. This position requires a favorable security determination as a condition of employment, as it is classified as a sensitive position.
What if I need a reasonable accommodation for the assessments?
Requests for reasonable accommodations for online assessments must be made in the application portal and granted prior to starting the assessments.
Job from Defense Finance And Accounting Service
DFAS is the financial engine of the Department of Defense. Our mission is to lead the DoD in finance and accounting by ensuring the delivery of efficient, accurate, and exceptional pay and financial information. We serve the men and women of the military and civilian defense communities, providing essential services that keep the agency running smoothly.
