Casualty Assistance Representative
Who may apply
Limited to the following applicant groups:
- Veterans
- Individuals with disabilities
- Military spouses
- Peace Corps & AmeriCorps Vista
- Family of overseas employees
- Federal employees - Competitive service
- Federal employees - Excepted service
- Career transition (CTAP, ICTAP, RPL)
- Land and base management
Offutt AFB, Nebraska
6 days left to apply
Salary: $75,425 – $98,058
per year
(GS-11)
Salary context
Based on 441 annual-salary jobs in the same occupational series. This role's pay spans a broad range among similar positions.
Job Details
Position Overview
Click on "Learn more about this agency" button below to view Eligibilities being considered and other IMPORTANT information.The primary purpose of this position is to: The primary purpose of this position is: To serve as a Casualty Assistance Representative (CAR), Casualty and Survivor Benefit Program Specialist.
Duties
- Program specialist for an installation's Casualty Services. Analyzes, implements, and administers total advisory services and comprehensive programs related to casualty services.
- Serves as subject matter expert for the installation's Casualty Policy and Casualty Program Educator Programs.
- Provides advisory services and administers comprehensive programs related to Casualty Services.
- Program Specialist for an Installation's Survivor Benefit Program (SBP).
Qualifications & Requirements
In order to qualify, you must meet the specialized experience requirements described in the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualification Standards for General Schedule Positions, Administrative and Management positions.SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Applicants must have at least one (1) year of specialized experience at the next lower grade GS-09, or equivalent in other pay systems. Examples of specialized experience include: administering program requirements for installations and analyzing and evaluating a variety of cases as related to the Casualty Services and Survivor Benefits programs; provide authorities advisory service based on extensive knowledge of military human resources (HR) management policies, programs and federal benefits/entitlements; interpreting, implementing, adapting and counseling on the policies and regulations related to the military casualty and survivor benefits programs; performing advisory services for specific requests, conducting interviews and motivating apathetic or negatively inclined individuals to use benefits and services; and analyzing and evaluating program issues or problems of a procedural or factual nature and formulate/implement corrective measures.
OR
EDUCATION: Successfully completed a Ph.D. or equivalent graduate degree or 3 full years of progressively higher level graduate education leading to such a degree or LL.M. in a field which demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform the work of the position. NOTE: You must submit copies of your official college transcripts
OR
COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: COMBINATION OF EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION: A combination of experience and education may be used to qualify for this position as long as the computed percentage of the requirements is at least 100%. NOTE: You must submit a copy of your transcripts.
FEDERAL TIME-IN-GRADE (TIG) REQUIREMENT FOR GENERAL SCHEDULE (GS) POSITIONS: Merit promotion applicants must meet applicable time-in-grade requirements to be considered eligible. One year at the GS-09 level is required to meet the time-in-grade requirements for the GS-11 level. TIG applies if you are in a current GS position or held a GS position within the previous 52 weeks. NOTE: Applicants applying as VEOA candidates who are current GS civil service employees or are prior GS civil service employees within the past 52 weeks must also meet time-in-grade requirements.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES (KSAs): Your qualifications will be evaluated on the basis of your level of knowledge, skills, abilities and/or competencies in the following areas:
1. Knowledge of comprehensive programs of federal entitlements administered by DOD, VA, and the SSA as they pertain to the Survivor Benefits/Survivor Rights Programs, Casualty Services and military life insurance programs (including the impact other survivor benefits will have on SBP, Civil Service retiree pensions and effect on military retired pay and survivor annuities) and the inter-relationship of these benefits and how it compares with commercial alternatives.
2. Knowledge of and familiarity with the responsibilities of the DFAS Centers, the VA, and the SSA. Ability to resolve problems related to casualty operations and the SBP with these agencies.
3. Knowledge of military rank and precedents and chain of command and the processes for verifying deaths, and the processes required by the Casualty Services Program.
4. Knowledge of interment rights and benefits provided by the VA including travel for family members, transportation of household goods/extension requests, and claims for destruction of personal property. Ability to compile and report data, analyze statistical data for trends, and to make adjustments to the programs. Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse group of individuals, both orally and in writing, and with a high degree of empathy, tact, and diplomacy in dealing with NOK of deceased persons.
5. Ability to resolve problems related to casualty operations and the SBP with these DFAS Centers, the VA, and the SSA. Ability to perform in-depth research, gather facts and use extensive and effective analytical and evaluative methods to accurately express oneself orally and in writing in a highly effective and professional manner, to interact with diversified groups, individuals and organizations. Public speaking and active training of large groups is an integral part of this position.
6. Ability to develop and apply knowledge of federal, state, and local social services available in the community as they relate to SBP, Casualty Services, and military life insurance programs (SGLI, VGLI, and NSLI).
PART-TIME OR UNPAID EXPERIENCE: Credit will be given for appropriate unpaid and or part-time work. You must clearly identify the duties and responsibilities in each position held and the total number of hours per week.
VOLUNTEER WORK EXPERIENCE: Refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service Programs (i.e., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student and social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge and skills that can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment.You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Education
IF USING EDUCATION TO QUALIFY: If position has a positive degree requirement or education forms the basis for qualifications, you MUST submit transcripts with the application. Official transcripts are not required at the time of application; however, if position has a positive degree requirement, qualifying based on education alone or in combination with experience, transcripts must be verified prior to appointment. An accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must accredit education. Click here to check accreditation.FOREIGN EDUCATION: Education completed in foreign colleges or universities may be used to meet the requirements. You must show proof the education credentials have been deemed to be at least equivalent to that gained in conventional U.S. education program. It is your responsibility to provide such evidence when applying.
********************ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR ACTIVE DUTY SERVICES MEMBERS********************
ACTIVE DUTY SERVICE MEMBERS: The VOW Act requires federal agencies to treat an eligible active duty service member as a veteran, disabled veteran, and preference eligible (as applicable) when applying for civil service positions before the effective release or discharge date. Appointment of military members before the release or discharge date is permissible if the member is on terminal leave. At the time the active duty member applies for a civil position, he or she must submit a "certification" memo in lieu of a DD-Form 214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty. Active duty members applying for a civil service position without submitting a valid certification memo or DD-Form 214 with their application will render the member ineligible for the position. The certification memo must originate from the member's military service branch on official letterhead and contain the following:
- Name/Rank/Grade of Service Member
- Branch of Armed Forces
- Dates of Active Service (Start and End Date(s)
- Expected Date of Discharge/Release from Active Duty
- Terminal leave start date (if applicable)
- Expected character of service (honorable or general) and type of separation (i.e. separation or retirement)
- Must be certified within 120 days of anticipated discharge
- Signature by, or by direction of the adjutant, personnel office, unit commander, or higher headquarters commander.
Conditions of Employment
- Must complete initial online questionnaire and additional assessment(s)
- U.S. Citizenship is required
- Males must be registered for Selective Service, see www.sss.gov
- If authorized, PCS will be paid IAW JTR and AF Regulations. If receiving an authorized PCS, you may be subject to completing/signing a CONUS agreement. More information on PCS requirements, may be found at: https://afciviliancareers.com/regulatory/
- This position is subject to provisions of the DoD Priority Placement Program
- Disclosure of Political Appointments
- All federal employees are required to have direct deposit.
- Advance in hire may be authorized if there is demonstrable proof provided on your resume
- Depending on the type of position (competitive/excepted) you are selected for, you will be required to serve a 1-year probationary period OR 2-year trial period.
- Upon completion of your probationary/trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
- Must possess and exercise a high degree of sensitivity, tact, expertise and diplomacy in dealing with high-ranking Air Force and DoD military and civilian employees, members of congress, family members and the general public.
- Recall to duty is a regular requirement of the position.
- Work occasionally requires travel away from the normal duty station.
- The work will require the employee to drive a motor vehicle. An appropriate, valid driver's license will be required for the position.
- Position is subject to shift work to include nights, weekends, and holidays.
- Public speaking and active training of large groups is an integral part of this position.
- This is a drug testing designated position. The incumbent is subject to random testing for drug use. This position has been designated by the Air Force as a Testing Designated Position (TDP) under the Air Force Civilian Testing Program.
- Employee must pass initial and periodic short notice drug testing. Illegal drug use by employees in sensitive positions presents a clear threat to the mission of the Air Force, national security, and public safety.
- Incumbent of this position is subject to the possibility of a random drug test.
- A background investigation to verify suitability for employment is required.
Evaluations
You will be evaluated based on how well you meet the qualifications listed in this vacancy announcement. Your qualifications will be evaluated based on your application materials (e.g., resume, supporting documents), your responses on the application questionnaire, and your responses to all assessments required for this position.You will be assessed on the following competencies (knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics):
Decision Making, Interpersonal Skills, and Reasoning
The USA Hire Assessments includes a cut score based on the minimum level of required proficiency in these critical general competencies. You must meet or exceed the cut score to be considered. You will not be considered for the position if you score below the cut score or fail to complete the assessment.
The resume/documents you submit must support your responses to the online questionnaire. If your application contradicts or does not support your questionnaire responses, you will receive a rating of "not qualified" or "insufficient information" and you will not receive further consideration for this job. Cheating on an assessment may also result in your removal from consideration.
Your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect your rating or consideration for employment.
APPRAISALS/AWARDS: Hiring Managers use objective methods and consider previous performance appraisals and awards in the selection process. Current Federal Civilian employees should list any relevant performance related rating and/or awards in your resume.
BASIS OF RATING: The assessments for this job will also measure
- Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSA) as listed under Qualifications
Best Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess exceptional skills and experience to exceed well above the minimum requirements
Fully Qualified Group: Candidates in this category possess good skills and experience above the minimum requirements.
Basically Qualified Group: Candidates in this category meet the minimum education and/or experience requirements.
To be considered for this position, you must complete all required steps in the process. In addition to the application and application questionnaire, this position requires an online assessment. The online assessment measures critical general competencies required to perform the job.
Overstating your qualifications and/or experience in your application materials or application questionnaire may result in your removal from consideration. Cheating on the assessment may also result in your removal from consideration.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
OPTIONAL DOCUMENTS:
Performance Appraisals for Current Federal Civilian Employees - Most recent performance appraisals (dated within last 3 years) showing the official rating of record signed by a supervisor.
Awards for Current Federal Civilian employees - List any awards received within the last 3 years on the resume.
Required Documents
The following documents are required and must be provided with your application. Applicants who do not submit required documentation to determine eligibility and qualifications will be eliminated from consideration. Other documents may be required based on the eligibility/eligibilities you are claiming. Click here to view the AF Civilian Employment Eligibility Guide and the required documents you must submit to substantiate the eligibilities you are claiming.- Online Application: Questionnaire
- Resume: Your resume may NOT exceed two pages, and the font size should not be smaller than 10 pts. You will not be considered for this vacancy if your resume is illegible/unreadable. Additional information on resume requirements can be located under "How To Apply".
- Transcripts/Registration/License: If qualifying based on education/position requires education, you must submit copies of your transcripts and if required for the position, submit an active, current registration/license.
- Veterans: If claiming VEOA, VRA or 30% Disabled Veteran - Submit VOW certification memo or copy of the official DD-Form 214, which must include the character of service (i.e., with an honorable or general discharge). This will be annotated in block 24 on member copy 2, 4, or 7 of the DD-Form 214. If claiming 30% Disabled Veteran, you must also submit a VA Letter or a disability determination from a branch of the Armed Forces. NOTE: All veterans claiming 10-point preference must also submit a SF-15.
- Current or Former Federal Civilian Employees (includes current Air Force employees): You must submit a legible copy of your most recent SF-50, Notification of Personnel Action, AND a SF-50 reflecting the highest grade held if different from your recent SF-50. The SF-50, block 24 must contain "1" or "2" AND block 34 must be a "1". Employees eligible under an OPM approved interchange agreement, block 34 may contain a "1" or "2".
- Promotion Consideration: If you wish to be considered as a promotion candidate and your SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you meet the one-year time-in-grade requirements. You will need to provide additional SF-50s which clearly demonstrate you meet the time-in-grade requirements (examples of appropriate SF-50s include Promotions, Within Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s with an effective date more than one year old).
- If you are requesting a reasonable accommodation to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, submit documentation to support your request, including the Reasonable Accommodation Request Form found here
- Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Eligible: MSP applicants, if determined best qualified, must be selected and placed at the highest grade for which they applied. You must include a completed copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist dated within 30 days along with the documents identified on the checklist to verify your eligibility for MSP. Click here to obtain/download a copy of the DD Form 3145-4, Military Spouse PPP Self-Certification Checklist.
How to Apply
Please read the entire announcement and all instructions before starting the application. To apply and be considered for this position, you must complete all required questionnaires, assessments and submit all required documentation as specified in the How to Apply and Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 08/25/2026, closing date of the announcement to receive consideration. The application process is as follows:To preview the Application Questionnaire, please click the following link: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/13040600
- Click the Apply Online button.
- Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation.
- Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59PM (ET) on the announcement closing date, 08/25/2026.
- Your Resume. If you submit more than one resume, only the most recent will be reviewed. The "most recent" is considered the resume with the latest timestamp.
- Resumes may not exceed two pages. The two-page resume ensures the most relevant experience is reviewed and considered, which is a common practice in both the public and private sectors. Resumes exceeding two pages will be removed from consideration. Additional information on how to complete or update your resume may be located here
- For qualification determination your resume must contain hours worked per week and dates of employment (i.e., month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as insufficient, and you will not receive consideration for this position. If you are a current Federal employee or previous Federal employee, provide your pay plan, series and grade, i.e. GS-0301-09. Current Federal Civilian Employees may list any relevant performance related rating (given within the last three years) and/or incentive awards in your resume.
- Do NOT include photographs, inappropriate material, inappropriate content, nor personal information such as age, gender, religion, social security number, etc., on your resume. If the resume you submit contains such information you will not be considered for this vacancy.
- Your name, first and last, MUST be included on your resume.
To update your application, including supporting documentation: During the announcement open period, return to your USAJOBS account, find your application record, and click Edit my application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.
To view the announcement status or your application status: Click here Your application status page is where you can view your application status, USA Hire assessment completion status, and review your notifications sent by the hiring agency regarding your application.
Human Resources WILL NOT modify or change any answers submitted by an applicant. Once your application package and online questionnaire is received you will receive an acknowledgement email.
If you do not provide an email address, you are responsible for checking status updates and notifications in USAJOBS. Hard copy notifications will not be mailed to you.
Source: Data sourced from USAJOBS