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Acquisition Professional Career Program for Contract Specialists

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Why Work for the Department of Homeland Security?

Are you a motivated and talented individual who is ready to take on a position of significant responsibility? At the Department of Homeland Security, you will have more than just a job. You will be a vital part of the solution to our country's security challenges for the 21st century.

We want exceptional individuals for mission-critical positions. You will be part of a team that procures over $20 billion worth of goods and services annually in support of the Department's mission. This is the third largest procurement budget in the federal government. 

As a member of the Department's Acquisition team, you will put your education and experience to work. You will be on the front-line, directly impacting the mission everyday by procuring everything from IT hardware and software, boats, aircraft.

If you are selected for the Acquisition Professional Career Program, you will gain a significant level of responsibility earlier in your career. In comparison to your peers in the private sector, you will be ready to take the reigns of leadership at an accelerated pace.

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How Does the Program Work?

Starting at the GS-05 or GS-07 grade level, you are appointed to three one-year rotational assignments through component organizations to provide you an opportunity to gain a broader perspective of the Department. This experience will enhance your background and comprehension of the contracting career field. Additionally, it will better prepare you for an extended career within the federal government once you complete the program. The following are Department of Homeland Security component organizations with contracting opportunities:

  • US Secret Service (USSS)
  • US Coast Guard (USCG)
  • Customs & Border Protection (CBP)
  • Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
  • Immigrations & Customs Enforcement (ICE)
  • Transportation Security Administration (TSA)
  • Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC)
  • Department of Homeland Security HQ Office of Procurement Operations

Upon successful completion of the program, you will be placed into a permanent full time position with promotion potential up to a GS-13.

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Beneficial Training

Join the team and we will provide you with the skills and training necessary to become a sought-after expert in the field of acquisition. We will invest in you with over 400 hours of technical training leading to your federally recognized certification in Contracting. 

Additionally, you will receive more than 100 hours of leadership-specific training. This will give you the training and expertise necessary to become a future leader in tomorrow's Government.

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Mentorship

Within your first 90 days, you will be partnered with a senior level expert who will provide you with positive guidance on how to reach your full potential.

Executive interviews will provide you an excellent opportunity to informally meet with additional Senior Government Executives and discuss your career goals and aspirations. 

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Outstanding Benefits

  • School Loan Repayment
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Personal leave days for vacation
    • 13 days/yr for first 3 years
    • 20 days/yr for years 4-15
    • 26 days/yr for years 15 or more
  • 10 paid holidays per year
  • 13 paid sick days per year
  • A wide choice of health insurance programs
  • Flexible work schedules
  • Fully portable Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401K) with matching contributions up to 5%
  • Non-taxable Flexible Spending Accounts for out-of-pocket medical or dependent care expenses
  • Paid Training
  • Transportation Subsidies
  • Employee recognition program
  • Life and long-term care insurance

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Position at a Glance

POSITION INFORMATION: Full Time Federal Excepted Service employee.
SERIES & GRADE: GS-1102-05/07
STARTING SALARY RANGE: $31,751 – $51,124 per year
PROMOTION POTENTIAL: Up to GS-13 $82,961 – $107,854 per year
DUTY LOCATIONS: Throughout the Washington DC Metro commuting area

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How to Apply

Applications for the February 2009 class have closed.

If you are interested in applying for our June 2009 class, please return to this site for additional details on or after December 1, 2008.

General Information:

DHS Acquisition Workforce will be attending recruiting events around the country throughout year. If you see us at an event, please stop by for additional information.

All Department of Homeland Security jobs require U.S. citizenship and, at a minimum, all DHS APCP positions require a DHS clearance. In addition, applicants may be required to submit to a drug test and/or a higher-level background investigation for some opportunities.

Please note that the application/hiring process may take several months, so please apply at the earliest date possible in advance of your eligibility date.

The Department of Homeland Security is an equal opportunity employer.

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This page was last reviewed/modified on September 4, 2008.