Ever wonder what it’s like to be a member of the NOAA Coast Survey team? We use the Coast Survey spotlight blog series as a way to periodically share the experiences of Coast Survey employees as they discuss their work, background, and advice.
Tsering Chuki, financial management specialist
“I find it rewarding when all our procurement actions are awarded on time and contracts are fully funded. By having fully funded contracts (software licenses, hardware, or manpower) our division is able to fulfill all the tasks skillfully and timely.”
What is your job title, and how long have you worked for Coast Survey?
I have been a financial management specialist with Coast Survey since April 2008.
What were your experiences prior to working for Coast Survey?
Prior to the Office of Coast Survey, I was an accountant at a property management company. It gave me the basis of the skills I needed to become a financial management specialist.
What is a day in your job like?
A day in my job is different throughout the year. For the first two quarters in the fiscal year, my days are mostly spent on the acquisition processes; dealing with vendors, putting together documents for contract procurements and payment executions. And the second half of the fiscal year, I keep track of current year obligations, analyze financial conditions, develop projections, and recommend courses of action. That’s also the time to start planning for next year’s budget. Aside from budget items, I execute personnel actions; (recruits, promotions, realignments, reassignments, and terminations) as needed.
How does your job contribute to the overarching Coast Survey mission? (i.e. why is this work important?)
I procure the tools, software, hardware, and people needed for Coast Survey’s Marine Chart Division to enable the safe travel of commercial and recreational boaters. As a human resources liaison, I am responsible for recruiting actions which helps to make sure the Marine Chart Division has enough resources to carry out the division’s day-to-day functions.
What aspects of your job are most exciting or rewarding to you?
I find it rewarding when all our procurement actions are awarded on time and contracts are fully funded. By having fully funded contracts (software licenses, hardware, or manpower) our division is able to fulfill all the tasks skillfully and timely.
What advice would you give someone looking to pursue a career in your field?
Trust your instinct and follow your interest.