See CONDITIONS and QUALIFICATIONS for important information about this position.
Serves as a production and material resource specialist in the review, editing, preparation and production of Braille and other informational alternative media materials for visually impaired agency personnel and the public. The work requires considerable specialized training and experience.
See DUTIES for additional responsibilities at the full performance level.
Summary
See CONDITIONS and QUALIFICATIONS for important information about this position.
Serves as a production and material resource specialist in the review, editing, preparation and production of Braille and other informational alternative media materials for visually impaired agency personnel and the public. The work requires considerable specialized training and experience.
See DUTIES for additional responsibilities at the full performance level.
Vacancy is open to All US Citizens. This position is not authorized to be filled virtually or through outstationing. The Official Duty Station (ODS) for this position is SSA-HQ, Woodlawn, Maryland. You must reside within a 2-hour commute to this ODS.
The incumbents of this position are considered SSA?s technical authority on alternative media.
Contributes to and reviews Braille contract specifications, reviews contractor proofs and participates in validation testing using adaptive devices such as JAWS.
Provides support, guidance and recommendations to SSA components on a variety alternative media initiative targeted to the visually impaired community.
Recommends formatting or modifications to materials based on agency and Braille Authority of North America (BANA) standards.
Operates adapted computers utilizing specialized software and other Braille devices to transcribe or translate a variety of agency publications, pamphlets, manuals and instructional materials into Braille for use by the visually impaired.
Translates materials from various formats (CD, email, Microsoft Word documents) into final Braille copy or verbatim transcript as appropriate.
U.S. Citizenship required. Selective Service Registration, if applicable (www.sss.gov)
Fingerprinting and background and/or security investigation may be required. Job offers are contingent on fingerprinting and background / security investigation results
This position is not authorized to be filled virtually or through outstationing. The Official Duty Station (ODS) for this position is SSA-HQ, Woodlawn, Maryland. You must reside within a 2-hour commute to this ODS.
Relocation expenses will not be paid; salary will be set in accordance with locality pay provisions.
Position is on a full-time, flex-time schedule; Alternate Work Schedules (AWS).
Telework may be authorized after all conditions for telework have been met.
Successful performance in this position will be assessed during the 1-year probationary period that may be served by new appointees (e.g., new to SSA and/or new to this series).
See Additional Information section for other conditions specific to this position.
Qualifications
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
To qualify for this GS-07 Braille Technician position you must demonstrate at least 52 weeks of Specialized Experience.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE must have been gained in a federal position at or above GS-06 OR (if your position and/or experience is in another federal pay scale OR outside of federal service) by performing duties at a level equivalent to GS-06 or above.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE is work that primarily consists of review, edit, preparation and production of Braille and other informational alternative media materials for visually impaired agency personnel and the public.
If you perform this kind of work, it must be specifically described in your resume.
Reviewers cannot assume you perform duties you don't describe.
An affirmative response to the online questionnaire is not sufficient to demonstrate experience.
Since Specialized Experience also has a time component, it must be evident that the duties you describe are at the required level for at least 52 weeks.
Your resume must show complete dates (month/day/year) for each position described (and if your position is or was federal, your grade at the time experience was gained). Resumes that don't include this information may not satisfy the requirement to demonstrate 52 weeks performing specific work at the required level.
If your experience includes a federal career-ladder position, separate your description of experience by grade so your qualifying experience (e.g., required grade, dates and duties) is clearly evident. Career-ladder positions described as a single position may not satisfy the requirement to demonstrate 52 weeks performing specific work at the required level
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS (e.g., Specialized Experience) must be met by the closing date of this announcement.
This position does not have an educational requirement.
Education cannot be used in lieu of (or in combination with) Specialized Experience.
Additional information
Selective Service: If you are a male born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt under the Selective Service Law. See www.sss.gov.
Additional selections may be made for this vacancy six months from the closing date of this announcement.
OTHER NOTES:
See QUALIFICATIONS and CONDITIONS for important information pertaining to this position.
See REQUIRED DOCUMENTS for documents needed to support your claim.
This is a bargaining unit position represented by AFGE.
This position is not authorized to be filled virtually or through outstationing. The Official Duty Station (ODS) for this position is SSA-HQ, Woodlawn, Maryland. You must reside within a 2-hour commute to this ODS.
Relocation expenses will not be paid.
Salary will be set in accordance with locality pay provisions.
Position is on a full-time, flex-time schedule; Alternate Work Schedules (AWS) may be authorized.
Telework may be approved after all conditions for telework have been met.
Successful performance in this position will be assessed during the 1-year probationary period that may be served by new appointees (e.g., new to SSA and/or new to this series).
Location of position:
Office of the Deputy Commissioner for Budget, Finance and Management (DCBFM)
Office of Facilities and Logistics Management (OFLM)
Office of Media and Logistics Management (OMLM)
Division of Media and Inventory Management (DMIM)
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.
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.
(1) You will receive a score based on your responses to the experience questions in the online questionnaire. Veterans' Preference is considered during this part of the evaluation.
(2) Using that score, you will be placed into one of three Category Rating groups.
-- Best Qualified: candidates who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skills and abilities
-- Well Qualified: candidates who demonstrate a satisfactory level of knowledge, skills and abilities
-- Qualified: candidates who demonstrate a minimum level of knowledge, skills and abilities
(3) If you are among the highest-ranking applicants based on your score, your resume will be reviewed by HR to determine if you demonstrate Minimum Qualifications.
Your resume must describe duties you perform that meet the Specialized Experience required for this position (see QUALIFICATIONS), as well as duties that demonstrate the following as they relate to the Specialized Experience. It must be evident that the duties you describe are at the required level for at least 52 weeks. Duties not clearly described cannot be credited.
-- Ability to analyze, interpret and provide guidance on multimedia initiatives and procedures
-- Skill in time management
-- Skill in utilizing specialized Braille software and equipment
(4) The highest-ranking applicants who demonstrate Minimum Qualifications will be referred to the hiring manager in category order, beginning with Priority Selections. Applicable documents will be forwarded for further review.
Your description of your knowledge, skills and abilities is subject to verification by the selecting official. You may be asked to provide specific examples or documentation or to verify a response by a practical demonstration of your claimed ability.
Qualified veterans' preference eligibles will be placed ahead of others in the category for which ranked.
Qualified veterans' preference-eligibles who demonstrate a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10 percent will be placed in the Best Qualified category.
See Required Documents for information on how to support these claims.
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.
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.
Resume - all applicants (SSA employees may use SSA-45) SF-50 - recommended for applicants with federal status Vet Preference documents - if claimed CTAP / ICTAP documents - if claimed Military Spouse documents - if claimed
RESUME -- must include:
-- your name and contact information
-- full start and stop dates (month/day/year) for each position
-- your grade and pay scale (if your position is or was federal) and
-- a clear description of the duties you perform that relate to the experience required for this position.
If you no longer hold a position it must show an ending date.
Do not simply list projects on which you worked or list experience in terms of accomplishments or
achievements. You must describe duties you perform that pertain to the requirements for this position.
See QUALIFICATIONS for detailed information.
SF-50 - recommended for applicants with federal status
VETERANS' PREFERENCE -- See Vet Guide. Submit DD-214 (Member 4 copy showing Dates of Service and Character of Service).
For 10-point preference, also submit SF-15 and documents specified on the reverse of the SF-15.
For derived preference submit SF-15 and documents specified on the reverse of the SF-15.
Current active-duty military claiming preference under Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act -- submit certification that you will be discharged under honorable conditions within 120 days of the certification date. Your letter must be signed by or under direction of the appropriate personnel office, unit commander or higher headquarters. Certifications must be on official letterhead from appropriate military branch and must include dates of service, expected discharge date. type of discharge, character of service, rank and date when terminal leave begins. Since service after Aug 31, 2010 is generally not qualifying for preference, include any qualifying campaign or expeditionary medals you received.
Preference will be granted based on the documents received.
CTAP/ICTAP - See The Employee's Guide to Career Transition (opm.gov). Submit separation notice; SF-50 documenting separation; agency certification that you cannot be placed after injury compensation has been terminated; OPM notification that your disability annuity has been terminated OR Military Department or National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456.
Don't claim CTAP or ICTAP if you voluntarily separated from federal employment (e.g., resigned, retired or transferred out), separated at the end of a term or temporary appointment, were terminated for performance or conduct reasons OR have never held a federal position.
(1) Click APPLY to create a USAJobs Account or log into your existing account.
(2) Confirm that your USAJobs Biographic Information is correct.
(3) Follow prompts to complete the questionnaire and upload required documents.
(4) Click Submit My Answers at the end of the process.
(5) "View/Print My Answers" to confirm you have answered every question
(6) Print a copy of the announcement for your reference if you are called for an interview (optional)
READ "NEXT STEPS" FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
Applications must be received by 11:59 pm (EST) July 28, 2023 and must include:
(1)responses to questionnaire
(2) uploaded resume
(3) other documents to support eligibility, if any (see Required Documents)
The questionnaire takes about 15 minutes. Answer all questions and follow instructions. Your score will be based on your responses. Errors or omissions may affect your overall evaluation.
We cannot accept documents submitted via email, fax or standard mail, but you may email inquiries about the position or How to Apply PRIOR TO the closing of the announcement.
If you use assistive software or an adaptive device contact OPE.Staffing.DCBFM@ssa.gov. Individuals with disabilities may call 410-965-1234 via Federal Relay.
Notice Concerning Materially False, Fictitious or Fraudulent Statements -- Anything you claim in the occupational questionnaire or your resume is subject to verification. By submitting your application, you are certifying that any statements you make are true, complete and correct to the best of your knowledge and belief and are made in good faith. Materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statements or representations are subject to disciplinary action.
DCBFM - OFLM
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
US
Next steps
Incorrect information in your USAJobs Account means you may not receive important emails pertaining to this announcement. SSA/HR is not responsible if outdated information in your USAJobs Account causes you to miss emailed notifications or job offers.
No matter what information is provided on your resume, HR and USAStaffing can only contact you using the information in your USAJobs Account. Your Biographic Information for this vacancy cannot be changed once your application has been submitted.
If you applied correctly and provided a valid email address in your Biographic Information, you will receive an Acknowledgement of Occupational Questionnaire. This is not an indication that your application is complete. Follow the instructions in the "How to Apply" and "Required Documents" sections to ensure that you submit a complete application.
HR cannot provide copies of announcements or application documents to you.
You are responsible for verifying that your application is complete and your documents have been properly submitted.
After applications are evaluated, a Best Qualified List will be issued and you will be notified of your status (e.g., highly qualified and referred to the selecting official; qualified but not referred; or ineligible).
INTERVIEWS may or may not be conducted, but if an interview is desired, it will be scheduled by the hiring office and a representative from that office will contact you directly.
HR will not have information pertaining to the scheduling of interviews and cannot provide feedback pertaining to completed interviews.
For a status of your application, go to your USAJobs account. Select Application Status then More Information to see if updates are available.
Updates will not be available during the interview/selection process, which may take up to 90 days.
After selections have been completed, final notices will be sent to applicants who were referred to the selecting official. Applicants who are not referred will not receive a final notice.
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
Resume - all applicants (SSA employees may use SSA-45) SF-50 - recommended for applicants with federal status Vet Preference documents - if claimed CTAP / ICTAP documents - if claimed Military Spouse documents - if claimed
RESUME -- must include:
-- your name and contact information
-- full start and stop dates (month/day/year) for each position
-- your grade and pay scale (if your position is or was federal) and
-- a clear description of the duties you perform that relate to the experience required for this position.
If you no longer hold a position it must show an ending date.
Do not simply list projects on which you worked or list experience in terms of accomplishments or
achievements. You must describe duties you perform that pertain to the requirements for this position.
See QUALIFICATIONS for detailed information.
SF-50 - recommended for applicants with federal status
VETERANS' PREFERENCE -- See Vet Guide. Submit DD-214 (Member 4 copy showing Dates of Service and Character of Service).
For 10-point preference, also submit SF-15 and documents specified on the reverse of the SF-15.
For derived preference submit SF-15 and documents specified on the reverse of the SF-15.
Current active-duty military claiming preference under Veterans Opportunity to Work (VOW) Act -- submit certification that you will be discharged under honorable conditions within 120 days of the certification date. Your letter must be signed by or under direction of the appropriate personnel office, unit commander or higher headquarters. Certifications must be on official letterhead from appropriate military branch and must include dates of service, expected discharge date. type of discharge, character of service, rank and date when terminal leave begins. Since service after Aug 31, 2010 is generally not qualifying for preference, include any qualifying campaign or expeditionary medals you received.
Preference will be granted based on the documents received.
CTAP/ICTAP - See The Employee's Guide to Career Transition (opm.gov). Submit separation notice; SF-50 documenting separation; agency certification that you cannot be placed after injury compensation has been terminated; OPM notification that your disability annuity has been terminated OR Military Department or National Guard Bureau notification that you are retired under 5 U.S.C. 8337(h) or 8456.
Don't claim CTAP or ICTAP if you voluntarily separated from federal employment (e.g., resigned, retired or transferred out), separated at the end of a term or temporary appointment, were terminated for performance or conduct reasons OR have never held a federal position.
(1) Click APPLY to create a USAJobs Account or log into your existing account.
(2) Confirm that your USAJobs Biographic Information is correct.
(3) Follow prompts to complete the questionnaire and upload required documents.
(4) Click Submit My Answers at the end of the process.
(5) "View/Print My Answers" to confirm you have answered every question
(6) Print a copy of the announcement for your reference if you are called for an interview (optional)
READ "NEXT STEPS" FOR IMPORTANT INFORMATION.
Applications must be received by 11:59 pm (EST) July 28, 2023 and must include:
(1)responses to questionnaire
(2) uploaded resume
(3) other documents to support eligibility, if any (see Required Documents)
The questionnaire takes about 15 minutes. Answer all questions and follow instructions. Your score will be based on your responses. Errors or omissions may affect your overall evaluation.
We cannot accept documents submitted via email, fax or standard mail, but you may email inquiries about the position or How to Apply PRIOR TO the closing of the announcement.
If you use assistive software or an adaptive device contact OPE.Staffing.DCBFM@ssa.gov. Individuals with disabilities may call 410-965-1234 via Federal Relay.
Notice Concerning Materially False, Fictitious or Fraudulent Statements -- Anything you claim in the occupational questionnaire or your resume is subject to verification. By submitting your application, you are certifying that any statements you make are true, complete and correct to the best of your knowledge and belief and are made in good faith. Materially false, fictitious or fraudulent statements or representations are subject to disciplinary action.
DCBFM - OFLM
6401 Security Boulevard
Baltimore, MD 21235
US
Next steps
Incorrect information in your USAJobs Account means you may not receive important emails pertaining to this announcement. SSA/HR is not responsible if outdated information in your USAJobs Account causes you to miss emailed notifications or job offers.
No matter what information is provided on your resume, HR and USAStaffing can only contact you using the information in your USAJobs Account. Your Biographic Information for this vacancy cannot be changed once your application has been submitted.
If you applied correctly and provided a valid email address in your Biographic Information, you will receive an Acknowledgement of Occupational Questionnaire. This is not an indication that your application is complete. Follow the instructions in the "How to Apply" and "Required Documents" sections to ensure that you submit a complete application.
HR cannot provide copies of announcements or application documents to you.
You are responsible for verifying that your application is complete and your documents have been properly submitted.
After applications are evaluated, a Best Qualified List will be issued and you will be notified of your status (e.g., highly qualified and referred to the selecting official; qualified but not referred; or ineligible).
INTERVIEWS may or may not be conducted, but if an interview is desired, it will be scheduled by the hiring office and a representative from that office will contact you directly.
HR will not have information pertaining to the scheduling of interviews and cannot provide feedback pertaining to completed interviews.
For a status of your application, go to your USAJobs account. Select Application Status then More Information to see if updates are available.
Updates will not be available during the interview/selection process, which may take up to 90 days.
After selections have been completed, final notices will be sent to applicants who were referred to the selecting official. Applicants who are not referred will not receive a final notice.
Fair and transparent
The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.
