Main purpose of job:

The British Defence Staff in the United States is part of the British Embassy located in Washington DC and is responsible for defence and security engagement with the United States government and Department of Defense.  Our purpose is to defend United Kingdom interests by strengthening the trans-Atlantic defence and security relationship.

The United States Support Group provides a range of support services to British Defence Staff working in the US, including human resource administration, welfare, medical, education and accommodation services. The Accommodation Support Team is responsible for sourcing permanent and temporary accommodation, furniture, logistics and routine support across the US. We are recruiting new desk officers to complete our remodelled team to deliver accommodation support services. This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact to the delivery of accommodation support to personnel and their families living in some 30 States.

We are looking for highly motivated individuals who have a real passion for service delivery and attention to detail. Applicants should be able to operate comfortably in a high-paced environment, have good communications skills and be able to think innovatively and creatively.  Whilst experience in a housing sector would be advantageous, it is not essential; applications from candidates with transferrable skills are welcomed.  A positive attitude and strong work ethic will be paramount.

Roles and responsibilities:

• Support the delivery of all UK Ministry of Defence accommodation services for personnel posted across the United States.
• Act as the initial customer contact point for accommodation and furniture linked enquiries ensuring the timely resolution of requests.
• Source properties to lease in the local DC, MD, VA (DMV) area, and support customers in self-sourcing properties in the wider Network, including policy advice and lease approvals.
• Allocate furniture to customers within the specified locations, ensuring timely delivery upon arrival and successful pick-up upon departure of personnel.
• Maintain an up-to-date inventory of all furniture stock within outlined databases. Support the Accommodation Manager in the minimisation of stock holdings and management of supply risk.
• Liaise with the Embassy Finance Team to arrange timely payments of any accommodation-related expenses.
• Place purchase orders with vendors, monitor status, requisition, and receive goods and services accurately and efficiently in specified accounting systems.
• Maintain up-to-date records on financial systems and ensure data accuracy and compliance with MOD policies.
• Conduct March-Ins and March-Outs with local DC, MD, VA (DMV) area-based personnel, supporting with resolution of any landlord disputes, and managing the process for the return of security deposits.
• Arrange temporary accommodation for entitled incoming personnel ensuring a cost effect solution.
• Assist with the upkeep and management of all records and management information.

• Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to be professional, confident, courteous, and deal with a wide range of colleagues.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to multi-task and strong problem-solving skills.
• Excellent customer service skills, with proven ability to take responsibility.
• Current valid driving licence.
• Basic Computer skills (such as MS Office).

Language requirements: 

Language: English
Level of language required: Fluent both spoken and written.

Please note: Under US State Department requirements, the UK Government in the US may only employ, as non-diplomatic staff, persons who are US citizens, US Permanent Residents, A and NATO visa holders with EAD cards, and L2 visa holders with an up-to-date I-94 form. You may refer to our website for additional information:  https://www.gov.uk/guidance/living-in-the-usa.

All selected candidates are subject to background checks and will require a security clearance prior to starting work.