Launch Your Administrative Career with the U.S. Coast Guard
Are you an organized professional with a passion for public service? The U.S. Coast Guard is looking for a talented Secretary (GS-07) to join the team at Base Cape Cod in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts. This role is more than just an administrative position; it is a vital partnership with the Commanding Officer to ensure that our maritime missions are executed with precision and efficiency.
Job Responsibilities
As the Secretary to the Commanding Officer, you will manage the daily pulse of the base leadership office. Key responsibilities include:
- Executive Support: Managing calendars, scheduling high-priority meetings, and coordinating complex command events.
- Administrative Accuracy: Preparing and reviewing correspondence, reports, and recognition documents for compliance and clarity.
- Stakeholder Relations: Acting as the primary point of contact for visitors, telephone inquiries, and interactions with government officials.
- Office Automation: Utilizing software to produce professional-grade spreadsheets, documents, and publications.
- Problem-Solving: Providing guidance on office procedures and supporting leadership with sensitive administrative matters.
Qualifications Comparison
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Mandatory U.S. Citizen |
| Experience Level | GS-06 Equivalent (1 year) |
| Education | Not a substitution for experience |
| Clearance | Public Trust |
Requirements for Success
To qualify, you must possess at least one full year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent. This experience should show your ability to manage calendars, track correspondence, and provide effective administrative support. Candidates must also be eligible for a Public Trust clearance, maintain a valid driver's license, and be able to pass a background investigation.
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $57,150 to $74,297. Beyond the paycheck, the U.S. Coast Guard provides a robust benefits package that ranks among the best in the public sector, including health insurance, generous leave, and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) for long-term financial security.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submitting a longer document will result in immediate disqualification.
- Be Specific: Provide clear dates (MM/YY) and average hours worked per week for all previous roles.
- Prepare for Assessments: Be ready to dedicate up to two hours for the USA Hire assessments after your initial application submission.
Supporting the U.S. Coast Guard as a Secretary is a rewarding way to contribute to national security while advancing your professional administrative career. If you meet the criteria and are ready to take on a high-impact role in Buzzards Bay, apply today.
Why This Secretary Job Matters
Launch a vital career at the U.S. Coast Guard and provide essential administrative leadership at Base Cape Cod.
Secretary Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a dedicated Secretary (GS-07) to provide high-level administrative support to the Commanding Officer at Base Cape Cod in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts. In this pivotal role, you will act as the principal office assistant, managing complex calendars, coordinating executive communications, and ensuring the seamless operation of command activities. This position is ideal for an organized professional looking to support a critical national security mission while enjoying the stability and comprehensive benefits of a federal career.
Requirements for Secretary
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be registered or exempt from Selective Service.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Public Trust clearance.
- Possession of a valid state driver's license.
- Minimum of one full year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Ability to complete mandatory USA Hire Competency Based Assessments.
- Strict adherence to resume length limit of two pages.
Preferred Qualifications for Secretary
- Proven experience in managing executive calendars and scheduling.
- Proficiency in advanced office automation software and document preparation.
- Strong interpersonal skills for managing inquiries from government officials and the public.
- Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with integrity and discretion.
- Experience in coordinating meetings, preparing agendas, and tracking follow-up actions.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
- ✓Life and long-term care insurance options.
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent).
- ✓Generous paid federal holidays and personal leave.
- ✓Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and professional training.
- ✓Flexible work schedules and fitness center access.
- ✓Transportation subsidies and potential uniform allowances.
💡 How to Apply Secretary Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Secretary Job
- Create or update your profile on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume not exceeding two pages in length (minimum 10pt font, 0.5-inch margins).
- Gather necessary documentation including transcripts and proof of veteran preference if applicable.
- Submit your application through the official online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for an invitation to complete the USA Hire assessment within 48 hours.
- Track your application status through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Focus your resume on specialized experience that directly aligns with the duties described.
- Do not copy/paste duty descriptions from the job announcement into your resume.
- Double-check your resume page count; applications exceeding two pages will be automatically disqualified.
- Ensure all contact information and employment dates (MM/YY) are accurate and legible.
- Use the USA Hire Applicant Resource Center to familiarize yourself with the assessment format before starting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use education to qualify for this GS-07 position?
No, this specific GS-07 position requires one year of specialized work experience equivalent to the GS-06 grade level. Education cannot be substituted for this experience.
How long do I have to complete the USA Hire assessments?
Once you receive the invitation link, you must complete the assessments within 48 hours of the announcement closing or receipt of the link.
Is relocation assistance available?
Relocation expenses are not authorized for this position.
What if I have a disability?
The Coast Guard is committed to reasonable accommodation. You may request assistance during the application process or when taking the mandatory assessments.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Coast Guard stand on the front lines of protecting the nation's maritime interests. From ports to the open sea, our civilian employees are integral to the success of our global mission. Joining the Coast Guard as a Secretary means becoming part of a diverse, professional workforce dedicated to safeguarding our nation's security and resilience.