SKILLBRIDGE.MIL DATALAST SYNC 2026-07-23
SkillBridgeConnectby Civic HackingPrograms
Programs / U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
In official directorySynced 2026-07-23

HQ - Federal Protective Service (FPS) - Program Specialist-Program Manager - Unpaid Internship

USAFUSAUSCGUSMCUSNUSSF
Program summary

As the Program Manager the incumbent serves as a Contracting Officer Representative (COR), responsible for providing expert knowledge and understanding of project management principles, other official guidance and contracting principles, including the most appropriate procedures and techniques, sufficient to plan, develop and implement the acquisition of products/services for FPS programs covering the regional zonal area.Independently maintains a broad perspective of the FPS contracting programs and advises on the decisions and possible effects regarding the alignment and realignment of contracts and special contract projects supporting FPS direction, goals, and priorities. Collaborates with the Contracting Officer (CO), other business advisors and program participants supporting program goals.

Roles & job description

Independently participates in identifying objectives and priorities and understands the long-term interests of tile organization in a global environment. Identifies stakeholders, understands stakeholder relationships, and recommends business and technical management approaches to the program for buy-in. Identifies potential problems or contract vulnerabilities and Informs the CO and related stakeholders as required. Supports the Program Manager in the development of a risk management plan for program. Applies good project management principles as they relate to contract schedule and performance. Independently works with various programs and staff throughout FPS, assuring coordination of manpower and resources with all appropriate staff and operating elements.Analyzes whether the program office's acquisition strategy addressing requirements, are realistic and obtainable. Interfaces with other business functions within FPS personnel in assigned areas ascertaining current research and development information, supports the acquisition life cycle, and application to specific program requirements. Develops strategies and recommendations in conjunction with subject matter experts to exploit identified opportunities. Through close coordination with the program office, the incumbent takes the lead implementing approved strategies and translating the customer requirements to a variety of documentation sources such as: contracts, interagency agreements, inter service support agreements, memorandums of agreements, etc. Through close coordination with the customer, the incumbent coordinates all phases and aspects of the documentation including budget, legal, procurement, personnel, safety/surety and other technical assistance as each customer requirement dictates.Additionally, responsible for administering contracts supporting Federal Protective Service (FPS) mission-oriented programs. Executes Contracting Officer Representative (COR) management duties and responsibilities in accordance with FPD delegated responsibilities as stipulated in the COR Appointment Letter and serves as a COR on one or more contracts. Duties serving as a COR are to administer contracts covering one or more vendors, within• a multi-state region; coordinates with regional program officials and supervisory staff, various headquarters divisions, and designated law enforcement subject-matter expert(s) for contracts within the regions. Monitors contractor performance and ensures all contractual requirements are met. Leads or coordinates lower graded employees in the reviews and evaluations of these complex programs; and will. Provides guidance and assistance to lower graded specialists.The incumbent will receive contractual assignments consistent with their FAC-COR Level Ill certification, including assignment to new and existing· acquisitions with medium to high complexity, medium to high dollar value, which could range from typically routine and low risk to frequent and high risk. It is expected while executing these duties and responsibilities, the Incumbent will rely on their own office-specific subject matter expertise.Analyzes whether the program office's acquisition strategy addressing requirements, are realistic and achievable. Interfaces with other business functions within FPS staff in assigned areas ascertaining current research and development information, supports the acquisition life cycle, and for application to specific program requirements. Develops strategies and recommendations in conjunction with subject matter experts exploiting identified opportunities. Through close coordination with the program office, the incumbent takes the lead implementing approved strategies and translated the customer requirements_ to a variety of documentation sources such as: contracts, interagency agreements, inter service support agreements, memorandums of agreements, etc. Through close coordination with the customer, the incumbent coordinates all phases and aspects of the documentation including budget, legal, procurement, personnel, safety/surety and other technical assistance as each customer requirement dictates.

Eligibility notes

Basic pre-employment investigative background check may be required.

Additional notes

Successful completion of this DHS unpaid internship will make the candidate competitive for possible full-time DHS employment.

Candidate reviews

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Interview prep for this program
Ask them
  • ▸ "How many of your past SkillBridge interns received full-time offers?" — a serious program knows the number.
  • ▸ "Who will my day-to-day mentor be, and what does week one look like?"
  • ▸ "The listing says 91 - 120 days — can that flex to my approved window if my command shortens it?"
  • ▸ "Is relocation expected for a full-time offer, or can I convert where I am?"
  • ▸ Confirm the eligibility notes above — ask exactly what they need from you and when.
Bring to the conversation
  • ✓ Your projected start window and separation date (from your profile)
  • ✓ Your command's approval status — even "packet drafted" signals you're serious
  • ✓ Your civilian-translated resume bullets (generate them here)
  • ✓ A written training-plan ask — you'll need it for your packet anyway
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