Ombudsman NF-05

Summary This position serves as the Ombudsman for Stars and Stripes Central, and is located in Washington, DC. To better expedite the hiring process, we recommend including full contact information (name, address, phone number, email, etc.) for professional and personal references on your resume. Incentives and Bonuses Incentives will not be paid. Learn more about this agency Duties Protects the Stars and Stripes’ First Amendment rights and its ability and obligation to provide a free flow of news and information to the DoD military community. Reports to the Publisher, Executive Editor and Director of the DMA allegations of censorship or complaints of news management or of unequal treatment by DoD officials. Monitors news coverage for fairness, accuracy, timeliness and balance, investigates allegations of violations of these standards and assertions of censorship or inappropriate news management and recommends corrective actions. Writes special columns, blogs, etc. for publication by Stars and Stripes regarding readers concerns about Stripes journalism, editorial integrity, editorial journalism operations, the news organization s mission and general journalistic issues. International travel is required. Complies with EEO, JER and MCP programs. Requirements Conditions of employment Direct Deposit and Social Security Card is required. Meet qualification/eligibility/background requirements for this position. A one-year probationary period may be required. Satisfactorily complete an employment verification (E-Verify) check. Subject to satisfactory completion of all pre-employment checks in accordance with AR 215-3, para.2 to include a Tier 1 background investigation. Must be a US Citizen. Must be able to obtain and maintain a US Passport and applicable country VISAs as needed. Qualifications Resumes must be two pages (or less). Resumes should clearly demonstrate the applicant's relevant experience, skills, knowledge and abilities as they pertain to this position. A qualified candidate must possess the following: 1. Extensive experience as a journalist; over 10 years' experience as a senior editorial leader. 2. Ability to work credibly, fairly, and impartially with all parties in the news process-editors, writers, subjects of coverage, and readers. 3. Demonstrated ability to evaluate opposing viewpoints. 4. Knowledge and abilities acquired through the performance of duties of the caliber described above. 5. One year equivalent to at least next lower grade level. 6. Excellent communication (written and verbal) and presentation skills. Preferred Qualifications: 1. Knowledge of the DoD and the military services, including the Combatant Commands' organization and operations. 2. Recognition as a distinguished journalist as evidenced by receipt of awards or serving as an officer of a nationally accredited journalistic society for editors or journalists or senior executive in a media organization. 3. Familiar with changing news consumption practices and news ecology related to digital content and social media influences. 4. Familiar with U.S. Congress committees and processes. Education This job does not have an education qualification requirement. Additional information Area of Consideration The Area of Consideration for this vacancy announcement is worldwide. Manual Application Option If you are unable to apply online, you can complete a paper application. To get started, contact servicing NAF Human Resources representative or office listed in the Agency Contact Information section (at the bottom of this announcement) to request a copy of the application form. Be sure to submit your completed application form, along with your resume and any required supporting documents, no later than 3:00pm EST on 05/12/2026 to ensure timely processing. Important: Incomplete applications, including missing responses to questionnaire items may result in an ineligible rating. PCS Costs Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government's interest. Allowances and Differential: This job is part of a pay-banded system. Sunday premium pay for regularly scheduled employees and night differential pay may be authorized by the Garrison Commander. Non-foreign overseas allowances, cost of living (COLA), and differentials will not be paid, contingent upon eligibility. Important Information Regarding Access to Certain Federal Facilities: Access to certain federal facilities may require a REAL ID-compliant driver's license/ID (marked with a star) or an Enhanced Driver's License (EDL) from WA, MI, MN, NY, or VT. See https://www.tsa.gov/real-id for details. Your Application may be Considered for Multiple Opportunities: After you apply, your application remains valid for 90 days and may be referred to hiring officials as new vacancies arise. Additional referrals may occur for up to 90 days after the closing date. Discover Your Path to Success Before you apply, take a moment to explore our Applicant Information Kit, your go-to guide for understanding our hiring processes and making your application stand out. Inside you will find helpful tips, insights, and everything you need to feel confident and prepared. Click this URL to view the kit: https://publicfileshare.chra.army.mil/Applicants/NAF_Applicant_Information_Kit.pdf Expand Hide  additional information Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution. Benefits Working for Army Non-Appropriated Funds (NAF) can offer numerous advantages. Army NAF employment can provide a sense of pride and fulfillment, as you'll be supporting communities comprised of military and civilian personnel, and their families, which contributes to the Department of Defense's overall mission. We offer a wide range of career opportunities, including jobs in childcare, recreation, hospitality, and more. Many employees have opportunities for professional development, including training, education, and certification programs to help towards career advancement. As an Army NAF employee, you'll have access to some on-base facilities, including fitness centers, libraries, and many other amenities. Regular full-time and part-time employees are eligible for enrollment in health and life insurance, participation in 401k and retirement plans, and paid personal time off and federal holidays. NAF flexible employees, working in the United States or a U.S. citizen or spouse or child of a U.S. citizen working for a NAFI in a foreign area, are eligible to participate in the NAF 401(k) plan. Some flexible employees may also be eligible to receive health insurance. For a slideshow presentation regarding these benefits, please click the Review Our Benefits link below. Review our benefits