Junior HR Specialist

Junior HR SpecialistKentro is hiring a Junior HR Specialist to support Human Resources Transactional Services (HRTS) supporting the USAID. The objective of this contract is to provide senior-level advisory services to the USAID Human Resources Director in support of the agency's strategic wind-down. The Senior Advisors will leverage deep institutional knowledge of USAID and the Department of State to guide the implementation of critical foreign service personnel actions-including severance, retirements, and staff transitions-while ensuring compliance with U.S. Government regulations and facilitating coordination with interagency partners. This position requires mastery of, and skill in applying, the principles, concepts, laws, and systems of employee benefits sufficient to lead efforts in resolving broad programmatic issues that significantly impact government-wide retirement and benefits program administration. The incumbent serves as the Agency's authoritative resource for employee benefits, providing guidance, counseling, and program leadership for Civil Service, Foreign Service, and SES employees.Responsibilities:Support the administration of retirement programs for Foreign and Civil Service employees.Assist in processing retirement applications under CSRS, CSRS Offset, FERS, FSPS, and FSDS systems, ensuring accuracy and timely submission.Provide employees and annuitants with guidance on retirement eligibility, creditable service, and benefits options, escalating complex cases to senior specialists as needed.Use automated systems such as GRB, HRConnect/NFC, and document management tools to manage case files, track actions, and maintain data integrity.Prepare draft correspondence, retirement estimates, and benefit summaries for review.Collaborate with OPM, State Department, and internal stakeholders to facilitate seamless processing and issue resolution.Support quality assurance reviews by providing complete and well-documented case files. Identify opportunities to improve efficiency through automation and digital workflow enhancements.Participate in periodic audits to ensure compliance with established procedures and regulatory requirements.Benefits Program Administration - 20%Assist in administering employee benefits programs, including FEHB, FEGLI, TSP, dental and vision plans, FSA, and long-term care.Respond to employee inquiries on deposits, redeposits, and service credit questions, coordinating with senior team members on complex cases.Maintain accurate electronic case records, ensuring all actions and counseling notes are properly documented.Support the development of training materials, knowledge base articles, and FAQs to improve employee awareness and understanding of benefits programs.Contribute to process improvements leveraging technology platforms such as ServiceNow and HRConnect for benefits tracking and employee communications.Participate in benefits-related presentations or webinars and provide administrative support to program outreach initiatives.Perform other related duties as assigned, such as supporting Death in Service case documentation and coordination.Location: Hybrid in Washington, DC. Salary Range: $100,000-110,000 annually. Factors influencing pay within this range include geography, market demand, skills, education, experience, and other qualifications of the successful candidate.Requirements:Knowledge of Federal retirement and employee benefits programs, policies, and procedures (CSRS, FERS, FEHB, FEGLI, TSP, etc.).Demonstrated ability to process retirement and benefits transactions using automated systems (e.g., GRB, HRConnect/NFC, ServiceNow).Strong analytical and organizational skills, with attention to accuracy and data integrity.Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to draft correspondence and explain technical information clearly.Proven customer service orientation and ability to handle sensitive or confidential issues with professionalism.Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a virtual, fast-paced team environment.Proficiency with Microsoft/Google Office Suite (Google Docs/Word, Google Sheets/Excel, Gmail/Outlook) and experience using digital case management systems.Preferred Qualifications:Experience counseling or assisting Federal employees with retirement or benefits questions.Familiarity with workflow automation tools, digital forms, or process optimization initiatives.Demonstrated interest in professional growth within HR, benefits, or retirement administration.Clearance Requirement:Must be a US CitizenMust be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust ClearanceMust meet updated ID requirements: https://www.gsa.gov/technology/it-contract-vehicles-and-purchasing-programs/federal-credentialing-services/get-appointment-help/bring-required-documentsIf you do not currently meet the ID requirements outlined, you must be willing and able to update your current forms of ID in a timely manner to complete the suitability process successfully.BenefitsWe offer competitive benefits package including paid time off, healthcare benefits, supplemental benefits, 401k including an employer match, discount perks, rewards, and more. We invest in our employees - Every employee is eligible for education reimbursement for certifications, degrees, or professional development. Reimbursement amounts may fluctuate due to IRS limitations. We want you to grow as an expert and a leader and offer flexibility for you to take a course, complete a certification, or other professional growth and networking. We are committed to supporting your curiosity and sustaining a culture that prioritizes commitment to continuous professional development. We work hard; we play hard. Kentro is committed to incorporating fun into every day. We dedicate funds for activities - virtual and in-person - e.g., we host happy hours, holiday events, fitness & wellness events, and annual celebrations. In alignment with our commitment to our communities, we also host and attend charity galas/events. We believe in appreciating your commitment and building a positive workspace for you to be creative, innovative, and happy.Commitment Equal Opportunity Employment & VEVRAAKentro is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to disability, status as a protected veteran or any other status protected by applicable federal, state or local law. Kentro is strongly committed to compliance with VEVRAA and other applicable federal, state, and local laws governing equal employment opportunity. We have developed comprehensive policies and procedures to ensure our hiring practices align with these requirements. As part of our VEVRAA compliance efforts, Kentro has established an equal opportunity plan outlining our commitment to recruiting, hiring, and advancing protected veterans. This plan is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure its effectiveness. We encourage protected veterans to self-identify during the application process. This information is strictly confidential and will only be used for reporting and compliance purposes as required by law. Providing this information is voluntary and will not impact your employment eligibility. Our commitment to equal employment opportunity extends beyond legal compliance. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees, including protected veterans, are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness.How to ApplyTo apply to Kentro Positions- Please click on the: "Apply for this Job" button at the bottom of this Job Description or the button at the top: "Application." Please upload your resume and complete all the application steps. You must submit the application for Kentro to consider you for a position. If you need alternative application methods, please email careers@kentro.us and request assistance.AccommodationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. If you need to discuss reasonable accommodations, please email careers@kentro.us.