Maritime Administration (MARAD)

Program Support Assistant (Open to both U.S. Citizens and Federal Employees).

NORFOLK, VAPosted 24 days ago

Job summary

  • Job post source

    This job is directly from Maritime Administration (MARAD)

  • Job overview

    The Program Support Assistant role at MARAD involves processing technical documents and supporting office and contract functions to ensure smooth operations within the Area Division.

  • Responsibilities and impact

    The assistant will prepare and track technical documents, serve as a Trusted Agent for issuing PIV cards, manage government purchase card usage, support contract monitoring, and handle office logistics including mail and visitor access.

  • Compensation and benefits

    The position offers a comprehensive federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and eligibility depends on employment type; specific salary details are not provided.

  • Experience and skills

    Candidates must be U.S. citizens with specialized experience in administrative tasks, document processing, and use of computer software; GS-07 requires experience equivalent to GS-06 level, GS-08 requires experience in procurement and vessel maintenance systems.

  • Company information

    MARAD is a U.S. government agency focused on maritime transportation and administration, offering federal employment benefits and a structured work environment.

  • Application process

    Applicants must submit required documents online by the closing date, meet eligibility and qualification requirements, and may undergo background checks and probationary periods.

  • Unique job features

    The role includes unique responsibilities such as serving as a Trusted Agent for PIV cards and managing government purchase card functions, distinguishing it from typical administrative positions.

Company overview

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is an agency within the U.S. Department of Transportation that focuses on the promotion and maintenance of the American merchant marine, which is crucial for national security and economic growth. MARAD supports the maritime industry through initiatives that enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the U.S. maritime transportation system. It manages programs related to shipbuilding, port infrastructure, and maritime workforce development. Historically, MARAD has played a significant role in ensuring the availability of sealift capacity for military and humanitarian missions. The agency generates revenue through various government contracts and partnerships with private sector entities in the maritime industry.

How to land this job

  • Position your resume to highlight your experience in processing, preparing, and tracking technical documents, emphasizing your ability to consolidate and reconcile inputs from multiple managers and technical staff, as this is central to the Program Support Assistant role at MARAD.

  • Showcase your familiarity with administrative tasks such as managing visitor access, handling mail and packages, and supporting contract monitoring, which align with the day-to-day office functions described in the job.

  • Apply through multiple platforms including the Maritime Administration's official careers page and LinkedIn to maximize your exposure and chances of securing the position.

  • Connect with current employees in the Area Division or administrative teams at MARAD on LinkedIn to gain insights about the role; use ice breakers like commenting on recent MARAD projects or asking about their experience with the PIV card issuance process to start conversations.

  • Optimize your resume for ATS by incorporating keywords from the job description such as 'technical document processing,' 'contract monitoring,' 'PIV card issuance,' 'program monitoring,' and 'procurement systems' to ensure your resume passes initial screenings.

  • Leverage Jennie Johnson's Power Apply feature to automate applying through multiple channels, tailoring your resume with relevant keywords, and identifying LinkedIn contacts to network with, allowing you to focus your time on preparing for interviews and other job search activities.

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