Human Resources Specialist

This position requires an active Secret clearance to be considered.

A government contract requires that this position be restricted to U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents.  You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify.

CN System Solutions is seeking a Program Specialist to support the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs (WHA). This role provides critical assistance to Family Member Employment Coordinators (FMEC), manages bureau awards processes, supports academic fellowship and internship programs, and oversees HR-related tracking systems. The Program Specialist will collaborate with domestic and overseas posts, ensuring compliance with Department of State guidelines while delivering high-quality administrative, analytical, and programmatic support.

This is an on-site position; the ideal candidate must reside in the D.C. metro or surrounding areas.

Compensation & Benefits:

Estimated Starting Salary Range for Program Specialist: $96,321.17

Pay commensurate with experience.

Full-time benefits include Medical, Dental, Vision, 401K, and other possible benefits as provided.  Benefits are subject to change with or without notice.

Program Specialist Responsibilities Include: 

• Guide FMECs and recruitment specialists at posts, maintaining SOPs, cable templates, and a library of FAQs.
• Manage the WHA bureau award process, including tracking submissions, distributing nominations, and coordinating approvals.
• Communicate with posts, managers, and coordinators on overseas award submissions, ensuring compliance with PERT and WHA guidelines.
• Administer the WHA awards inbox, order certificates, and respond to inquiries based on established policies.
• Serve as Academic Program Lead, supporting student, fellowship, and intern programs (Pickering, Rangel, Pathways, Recent Graduates, and Paid Internships).
• Coordinate program placements domestically and overseas, addressing inquiries from participants and posts.
• Monitor and update the WHA Post Action Tracker, ensuring timely follow-up and accurate documentation.
• Provide technical guidance to posts on tracker access, functionality, and system improvements.
• Create and maintain trackers for HR-related issues affecting bureau employees.
• Monitor and respond to communications via WHA shared mailboxes and distribution lists, ensuring timely and accurate responses. 
• Performs other job-related duties as assigned

Program Specialist Experience, Education, Skills, Abilities requested: 

• A bachelor's degree is preferred.
• Active Secret clearance required.
• Strong background in human resources or human capital management.
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, organizational, and coordination skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and SharePoint; data analytics knowledge preferred.
• Excellent written and spoken communication skills in English.
• Strong interpersonal, collaboration, and customer service abilities.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and assess priorities effectively. 
• Must pass the pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal

Company Information:

Cherokee Nation System Solutions (CNSS) is a part of Cherokee Federal – the division of tribally owned federal contracting companies owned by Cherokee Nation Businesses. As a trusted partner for more than 60 federal clients, Cherokee Federal LLCs are focused on building a brighter future, solving complex challenges, and serving the government's mission with compassion and heart. To learn more about CNSS, visit cherokee-

#CherokeeFederal #LI-SH1

Cherokee Federal is a military-friendly employer. Veterans and active military transitioning to civilian status are encouraged to apply.

Keywords: 

• program support 

• HR coordination

•  awards management

• academic programs 

• WHA

Similar Job Titles: 

• Program Coordinator

• Human Resources Program Specialist 

• Academic Program Officer

•  Management Analyst

• Program Administration Specialist

Legal Disclaimer: All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to protected veteran status, disability or any other status protected under applicable federal, state or local law.
Many of our job openings require access to government buildings or military installations. Candidates must pass pre-employment qualifications of Cherokee Federal.