IT SPECIALIST (APPSW) Job

Vacancy No. DFAS-ML-12754147-25 Department Defense Finance and Accounting Service
Salary $56,763.00 to $131,826.00 Grade 7 to 12
Perm/Temp Temporary FT/PT Full-time
Open Date 6/26/2025 Close Date 7/10/2025
Job Link Apply Online Who may apply Status Candidates
Locations:
Indianapolis, INLimestone, MERome, NYCleveland, OH


Summary

  • Who may apply: Current permanent DFAS employees in the competitive service and current DFAS VRA employees.
  • Position is located in I&T Directorate, Payroll Services, ZTB.
  • This job announcement may be used to fill similar positions on other teams in the I&T Directorate.
  • Applicants on Cleveland list may be considered for positions in Bratenahl.
  • MUST SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE COBOL (COMMON BUSINESS-ORIENTED LANGUAGE) AGENCY LED TRAINING

This job is open to

Clarification from the agency

This announcement is open to current, permanent DFAS employees in the competitive service and current DFAS VRA employees.

Duties

  • This position is in a COBOL (COMMON BUSINESS-ORIENTED LANGUAGE) programming language training cadre.
  • Selected applicants will initially spend approximately 12 weeks learning COBOL (COMMON BUSINESS-ORIENTED LANGUAGE) and related software development disciplines.
  • Additional disciplines may include, but are not limited to, JCL, CICS, DB2, IDMS, Agile, DevSecOps.
  • Supports a team of software engineers engaged in program analysis, design, development, testing, implementation, and documentation for major accounting and finance systems.
  • Duties will be developmental in nature when the position is filled below the full performance level.

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen or National
  • Registered for Selective Service (males born after 12-31-1959)
  • Suitable for Federal employment
  • Time after Competitive Appointment: Candidates must have served 3 months after latest competitive appointment in the Federal service.
  • This national security position, which may require access to classified information, requires a favorable suitability review and security clearance as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain security eligibility may result in termination.
  • New employees to the Defense Finance and Accounting Service will be required to successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit e-verify.gov.
  • Time-in-Grade Requirement for entry at the GS 07:  Applicant must have served 52 weeks as a GS-05 or higher grade in Federal Service.
  • Time-in-Grade Requirement for entry at the GS 09:  Applicant must have served 52 weeks as a GS-07 or higher grade in Federal Service.
  • Time-in-Grade Requirement for entry at the GS 11:  Applicant must have served 52 weeks as a GS-09 or higher grade in Federal Service.
  • Time-in-Grade Requirement for entry at the GS 12:  Applicant must have served 52 weeks as a GS-11 or higher grade in Federal Service.
  • MUST SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE COBOL (COMMON BUSINESS-ORIENTED LANGUAGE) AGENCY LED TRAINING

Qualifications

  • In addition to OPM qualifications stated below, management requests submission of an essay, approximately 500 words long, highlighting your information technology background and experience.
  • Essay content should include: Why are you interested in participating in this COBOL training program and how do you think it would help DFAS achieve its mission 'to be a valued partner in financial management by delivering first class services and products'?
  • You MUST submit this essay in order to be selected.
  • Essays should be submitted as an additional attachment in your application package, at the time of application.

FOR ENTRY AT THE GS-07 THROUGH GS-11
Basic Requirement: Applicants must have IT-related experience demonstrating the following competencies appropriate to, or above, the level of this position. Your resume and work experience should clearly support your ability to meet these competencies and will be evaluated as part of the entire application process.
  • Attention to Detail- experience reviewing my own information technology-related work or data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and consistency with standards. My work or the data that I produce is typically reviewed by my supervisor or another colleague
  • Customer Service- experience having brief contact with customers to provide information about available information technology products and services and providing customers with standard products or routine services to address information technology needs
  • Oral Communication- experience informing my supervisor and other IT staff of the status of information technology systems, projects, or daily operations, including the status of information technology systems, projects, or daily operations, including the communication of basic technical information to a non-technical audience
  • Problem Solving- identifying or selecting from a number of alternatives to address routine information technology-related issues by gathering and applying information from standard sources that provide a limited number of solutions
IN ADDITION TO THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS LISTED ABOVE for the GS 07, 09, 11:

For Entry at the GS-07 Level:
One year of specialized experience equivalent in level of difficulty and responsibility to that of the next lower grade in the federal service (GS-05), which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position, is required.
Specialized experience is defined as: Carrying out assignments consisting of tasks, such as minor modifications to parts of an information system; analysis of the interrelationships of pertinent components of the system; planning the sequence of actions necessary to accomplish the assignment.

For Entry at the GS-09 Level:
One year of specialized experience equivalent in level of difficulty and responsibility to that of the next lower grade in the federal service (GS-07), which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position, is required.
Specialized experience is defined as: Carrying out assignments consisting of tasks, such as minor modifications to parts of an information system; analysis of the interrelationships of pertinent components of the system; planning the sequence of actions necessary to accomplish the assignment; and personal responsibility for at least a segment of the overall project.

For Entry at the GS-11 Level:
One year of specialized experience equivalent in level of difficulty and responsibility to that of the next lower grade in the federal service (GS-09), which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position, is required.
Specialized experience is defined as: Accomplishment of computer project assignments that required a range of techniques such as developing modifications to parts of an information system; planning the sequence of actions necessary to accomplish the assignment; adaptation of guidelines or precedents to the needs of the assignment.

FOR ENTRY AT THE GS-12
Basic Requirement: Applicants must have IT-related experience demonstrating the following competencies appropriate to, or above, the level of this position. Your resume and work experience should clearly support your ability to meet these competencies and will be evaluated as part of the entire application process.
  • Attention to Detail- experience reviewing my own information technology-related work or data and have been asked by others to review their work or data to ensure accuracy, completeness, and consistency with standards
  • Customer Service- experience maintaining relationships with customers, assessing current information technology needs of customers, and developing or identifying information technology products and services that are tailored to meet customer needs
  • Oral Communication- briefing mid-level management and IT staff on the status of information technology systems, projects, or daily operations, including the communication of technical information to a non-technical audience
  • Problem Solving- identifying alternatives to address complex information technology-related issues by gathering and applying information from a variety of sources that provide a number of potential solutions
IN ADDITION TO THE BASIC REQUIREMENTS LISTED ABOVE for the GS-12:

For Entry at the GS-12 Level:
One year of specialized experience equivalent in level of difficulty and responsibility to that of the next lower grade in the federal service (GS-11), which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of the position, is required.
Specialized experience is defined as: Accomplishment of computer project assignments that required a range of techniques; conducting analyses and recommending resolutions of issues; identifying and defining business or technical requirements applied to the design, development, implementation, integration, configuration, testing, and support of software or information systems.

You may qualify for consideration if meeting time-in grade, specialized experience, education requirement, 90 days after competitive appointment requirement, and all other qualification requirements within 30 calendar days after the closing date of the announcement, unless otherwise indicated on the announcement.

Education

**Combination of education and experience is not applicable for this Job Series.**

YOU MUST SUBMIT TRANSCRIPTS IF YOU ARE SUBSITUTING EDUCATION FOR EXPERIENCE IN ORDER TO BE CONSIDERED.

Substitution of Education for Experience:

For Entry at the GS-07: One year of graduate education in computer science, engineering, info science, info systems management, mathematics, operations research, statistics, or tech management; or a bachelor's degree with superior academic achievement (S.A.A) that provided a minimum 24 semester hours in one or more of the fields above and required the development or adaptation of applications, systems or networks, may be substituted to meet the specialized experience requirement. S.A.A. is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average, or (3) honor society membership.

For Entry at the GS-9: Qualifying Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree or 2 full years of graduate education leading to a Master's degree or equivalent graduate degree in computer science, engineering, info science, info systems management, mathematics, operations research, statistics, or tech management or degree that provided a minimum of 24 semester hours in one or more of the fields identified above & required the development or adaptation of applications, systems or networks.

For Entry at the GS-11: Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree or 3 full years of graduate education leading to a Ph.D. or equivalent doctoral degree in computer science, engineering, info science, info systems management, mathematics, operations research, statistics, or tech management or degree that provided a minimum of 24 semester hours in one or more of the fields identified above & required the development or adaptation of applications, systems or networks.

Education is not substitutable for specialized experience at the GS-12 grade level.

**Combination of education and experience is not applicable for this position.**

Additional information

  • In accordance with the DoD 8140 policy series, the position may subject to completing Foundational Qualifications within 9 months and completing Residential Qualification requirements within 12 months, "After the temporary promotion has been made permanent".
  • For some positions, the temporary promotion may be made permanent without further competition, or, return to your former grade may be effected at anytime without adverse action procedures.
  • MUST SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE COBOL (COMMON BUSINESS-ORIENTED LANGUAGE) AGENCY LED TRAINING
  • The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 makes certain reimbursements/payments taxable. For information on these changes and the Relocation Income Tax Allowance (RITA), for which some appointees are eligible, click here.
  • Telework availability is limited and will only be provided on a rare case-by-case basis during situations where Agency Leadership has determined that telework serves a compelling DoD need.
  • Selections are subject to restrictions resulting from the DoD Program for Stability of Civilian Employment.
  • A one year probationary or trial period may be required.
  • We may use this announcement to fill additional vacancies within 120 days of the closing date.
  • Position is Non-Exempt at the GS-07 & GS-09 levels and Exempt at the GS-11 & 12 level, from the Fair Labor Standards Act.
  • Retired Civil Service Employee: Employment of retired Federal employees receiving an annuity is subject to the requirements of the Department of Defense (DoD) policy guidance. (See DoD Instruction 1400.25, Volume 300, here.
  • DFAS recognizes the value of competencies gained through formal education and professional certifications. To ensure that consistent credit is given for these credentials in the selection process DFAS has developed standard selection criteria to be used when filling positions in professional and administrative series. Selections for professional and administrative positions will be based on four categories of selection criteria: Experience, Other, Education, and Certifications.
  • The Security Designation will vary and dependent upon position and may require a secret clearance or higher. Employment in this position requires a background investigation which may delay starting date. If you are selected and cannot obtain a favorable security determination within a reasonable period of time, the offer may be withdrawn. Individuals selected are required to obtain/maintain a favorable security determination to occupy a sensitive position as a condition of employment. Failure to maintain eligibility to occupy a sensitive position may result in termination. For more information see the security section of Understanding Vacancy Announcements.
  • Criminal History Inquiries- For some positions, criminal history inquiries may not take place before you receive a conditional job offer. Please see Fair Chance to Compete for Jobs Act of 2019 (dfas.mil) for more information on The Fair Chance to Compete Act, exceptions, and DFAS contact information.
  • All applicants are encouraged to apply electronically. If you are unable to apply on-line, you may contact 317-212-0454 for assistance.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

IMPORTANT NOTE - YOU MUST FOLLOW ALL APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY. ERRORS OR OMISSIONS MAY AFFECT YOUR RATING.

All information included in the resume and Occupational Questionnaire is subject to review and verification. HR will review your resume and supporting documentation to ensure you meet the minimum qualification requirements. Applicants meeting the minimum requirements will be further evaluated based upon information you provided in the Occupational Questionnaire. If a determination is made that the work experience described in your submitted resume does not support your responses to the self-assessment questionnaire, your score may be reduced, and you may lose consideration for this position. If you are already a DFAS employee, you may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including removal from Federal service, if you are found to have exaggerated, embellished, inflated, mischaracterized, or falsified your resume or qualifications.

The Assessment Questionnaire takes approximately 15 minutes to complete and collects information on your education, training and experience related to the following critical competencies:

  • Communication
  • Requirements Analysis
  • Software Development


You may preview the assessment questionnaire here: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12754147

DFAS recognizes the value of competencies gained through formal education and professional certifications. To ensure that consistent credit is given for these credentials in the selection process, DFAS has developed standard selection criteria to be used when filling positions in professional and administrative series. Selections for professional and administrative positions will be based on four categories of selection criteria: Experience, Other, Education, and Certifications.

Required Documents

You must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

  1. Résumé: You are encouraged to choose only ONE method of submitting your resume. (HR will review the resume that the system date stamps as the latest one received and this may not be the resume, which best reflects your qualifications for the job and may result in an ineligible rating.) You may submit your resume by: attaching in your USAJobs account; uploading in your Application Manager account; OR faxing. For assistance in preparing your resume, take a look at the DFAS Resume Tools.
  2. Complete Assessment Questionnaire: Your resume must describe the quality of work in regards to responses to the occupational self-assessment questionnaire as they generate your numerical rating.
  3. Other Supporting Documents.
The following supporting documents are ONLY required if applicable to your personal qualifications or status. They must be received by the closing date of the announcement.
  1. Transcripts and/or Certifications: You must submit documentation if you are substituting education for experience. Many applicants must also submit documentation for proof of meeting the basic education requirement. For additional information on acceptable documents or to see if you must submit documentation click here Transcripts and Certifications. You must also document your education and/or certifications in your resume.
  2. SF-50: With the exception of current permanent DFAS employees, current or former federal employees must submit a Notification of Personnel Action reflecting the highest grade held on a permanent basis, tenure and appointment type.
  3. Veterans Documentation: Review these authorities and documents verifying eligibility for VEOA, VRA and/or 30% or more disabled veterans hiring authorities
  4. Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: Military Spouse Preference applicants, must be selected and placed at the highest grade level for which they have applied and been determined best qualified up to and including the full performance level. You must include a completed copy of the Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for Military Spouse Preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  5. Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians PPP Eligible: MR and NG technicians PPP applicants must be selected and placed at the full performance level if determined well qualified. You must include a completed copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician PPP Self-Certification Checklist to verify your eligibility for Military Reserve and National Guard Technician preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  6. Military Reserve (MR) and National Guard (NG) Technicians Receiving Disability Retirement PPP Eligible: MR and NG technicians receiving disability retirement PPP applicants must be selected and placed at the full performance level if determined well qualified. You must include a completed copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician Disability PPP Self-Certification Checklist to verify your eligibility for Military Reserve and National Guard Technician Disability preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Military Reserve and National Guard Technician Disability PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  7. Retained Grade PPP Eligible: Retained Grade PPP applicants, must be selected and placed at the full performance level if determined well qualified. You must include a completed copy of the Retained Grade PPP Self-Certification Checklist to verify your eligibility for Retained Grade preference. Click here to obtain a copy of the Retained Grade PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
  8. ICTAP Eligibles: A copy of the RIF separation notice and SF50 if available.
  9. Other Special Hiring Authorities: Click here to review these authorities and the documents you are required to submit.
  10. You may submit a cover letter which will be forwarded to the selecting official with your resume. Your cover letter will not be used to verify your qualifications or eligibility.
WARNING: Failure to submit a complete application package including any required documentation by 11:59 PM (EST) 07/10/2025, or at the time of application for announcements with an extended closing date, may result in an ineligible rating and loss of consideration. To verify that your application is complete, log into your USJOBS account, select Application Status and More Information. The Details page will display the status of your application. It is the applicant's responsibility to verify that information entered, uploaded, or faxed is received, legible and accurate. HR will not modify answers submitted by an applicant.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package. See required documents below.

Click 'Apply Online' to create an account or log in to your existing USAJOBS account.
1. Follow the prompts to complete the assessment questionnaire and upload required documents.
2. Please ensure you click the Submit My Answers button to submit your application.
3. Check application status by logging into your USAJOBS account, clicking Application Status, then More Information for this position. Return to an incomplete application by logging into your USAJOBS account and clicking Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete.

The following link will help you determine if you meet the eligibility to apply for this position:
http://www.dfas.mil/careers/howtoapply/vacancyannouncement/appointment-eligibility.html

PLEASE NOTE: You will be considered only for those appointment eligibilities for which you select, attach supporting documentation and are found eligible.

Agency contact information

HR Customer Care Center
Address
DFAS - INFO AND TECHNOLOGY DIR OFFICE
4800 Mark Center Drive
Alexandria, VA 22350
US

Next steps

The occupational questionnaire and the resume that you submit will be used to assess your qualifications for the job, and to identify the best qualified applicants to be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interviews. We will notify you of the outcome after each of these steps has been completed. After making a tentative job offer, we will conduct a suitability/security background investigation.

Additional Locations

  • Whitehall, OH
  • Texarkana, TX
  • Alexandria, VA


Note: We cannot accept applications on behalf of Federal Agencies. Application instructions are listed within the Job Description.


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