Administrative Excellence with the U.S. Coast Guard: Become a Secretary (OA)
Are you a highly organized professional looking to pivot your career toward a mission-driven organization? The U.S. Coast Guard is currently hiring for a Secretary (OA) at the GS-07 level to support their Southeast District Command Cadre. This role is perfect for administrative experts who thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments. If you have the skills to keep executive offices running smoothly, this is your opportunity to join the Department of Homeland Security.
Job Responsibilities
As a Secretary (OA), you are the gatekeeper and the operational engine of the office. Your primary duties will include:
- Executive Support: Managing calendars, scheduling meetings, and resolving conflicts for command staff.
- Correspondence Management: Reviewing and editing documents for grammar, formatting, and compliance with the Coast Guard Correspondence Manual.
- Technical Coordination: Utilizing Microsoft Office software to manage data, presentations, and tracking systems.
- Communication: Acting as the primary liaison between internal staff, federal officials, and external industry representatives.
- Logistics: Organizing travel for command staff and handling administrative inquiries.
Comparison: Standard Office Roles vs. Federal Secretary
| Feature | Standard Office Role | GS-7 Coast Guard Secretary |
|---|---|---|
| Scope | General Support | Executive/Command Support |
| Impact | Daily Operations | National Security Mission |
| Benefits | Varies by Employer | Full Federal Benefits Package |
| Schedule | Standard | Regular with Potential Telework |
Requirements
To be considered for this competitive position, you must meet the following criteria by the closing date:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-06 level.
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Resume: Strictly limited to two pages.
- Integrity: Successful completion of a background investigation.
Salary Overview
This position is classified at the GS-07 grade level, with an annual salary range of $53,740 to $69,864, depending on experience and locality adjustments.
Benefits
DHS offers a competitive total compensation package that includes health insurance, dental and vision care, and a robust retirement plan including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP). Employees also benefit from paid federal holidays, personal leave, and opportunities for tuition reimbursement and career development.
Application Tips
- Format Your Resume: Do not exceed two pages. Ensure font size is at least 10pt with 0.5-inch margins.
- Avoid Disqualifiers: Never include your Social Security Number or a photo on your resume.
- Detail Matters: Clearly define your specialized experience, including start and end dates and hours worked per week.
- Monitor Your Email: You will receive instructions for required USA Hire assessments via email; ensure you check your inbox regularly.
The role of a Secretary (OA) with the U.S. Coast Guard is more than just an office job—it is a vital component of our national maritime infrastructure. If you possess the attention to detail and professional drive necessary to support command leadership, apply today to start your federal service journey.
Why This Secretary (Oa) Job Matters
Launch your career with the U.S. Coast Guard—provide essential administrative leadership to command staff in sunny Florida.
Secretary (Oa) Job Overview
The U.S. Coast Guard is seeking a skilled Secretary (OA) to support the Southeast District Command Cadre. In this role, you will act as the primary administrative backbone for senior leadership, managing complex schedules, correspondence, and high-level communications. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to maritime safety and national security while working in a professional, mission-focused environment.
Requirements for Secretary (Oa)
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Must be registered with or exempt from Selective Service.
- Must pass a background investigation.
- Must have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-06 level or equivalent.
- Must submit a resume no longer than two pages.
- Must be proficient in MS Office Suite including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams.
Preferred Qualifications for Secretary (Oa)
- Experience in executive-level calendar management.
- Strong proficiency in government correspondence protocols.
- Demonstrated ability to coordinate complex travel arrangements for senior staff.
- Ability to communicate effectively with high-level officials and external stakeholders.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- ✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous personal leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Potential for tuition reimbursement
- ✓Employee Assistance Program
💡 How to Apply Secretary (Oa) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Secretary (Oa) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that specifically highlights your administrative experience (limited to 2 pages).
- Gather supporting documentation like transcripts or SF-50 forms.
- Apply online via the USAJOBS portal before the closing date.
- Complete any required USA Hire assessments within the provided 48-hour window.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume strictly under two pages; longer resumes will be automatically rejected.
- Do not include personal information like your date of birth or a photo on your resume.
- Use specific dates (mm/yy) and hours per week to accurately reflect your experience.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your grade and tenure if you are a current or former federal employee.
- Verify that all uploaded documents are legible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum length for the resume?
Your resume must be exactly two pages or fewer. Any application with a resume exceeding this limit will be removed from consideration.
Are there specific assessment requirements?
Yes, if an assessment is required for this position, you will receive an email invitation. You must complete it within 48 hours of notification.
Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?
Yes, this position is open to various hiring paths. Check the 'Who May Apply' section to see if you qualify under categories like veterans, military spouses, or individuals with disabilities.
Is telework available?
Yes, this position is telework-eligible, though specific policies will be determined by the hiring office.
Can I apply if I am a veteran?
Yes, the U.S. Coast Guard encourages veterans to apply and recognizes veterans' preference.
Job from U.S. Coast Guard
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is responsible for a broad range of mission-critical tasks, from protecting the President to securing our nation's maritime borders. By joining the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG), you become part of a storied organization dedicated to maritime safety and national security. You will support personnel who work in ports, at sea, and across the globe.