Summary

The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) invites students to apply to our Intern positions. The ideal candidates are current Certificate Program, Undergraduate or Graduate students who demonstrate innovation and self-initiative. You will have an opportunity to train and develop your skills in career fields such as human resources, policy, healthcare, insurance, retirement, or information technology and have a positive impact on the people and communities that OPM serves.

This job is open to

Students

Current students enrolled in an accredited high school, college or graduate institution.

Clarification from the agency

This is a temporary or indefinite, part-time/full time Intern position.

Duties

What You May Be Doing:

Participate in the design, development, testing, and implementation of new or modified applications software. This subject matter specialty will enhance your familiarity with or understanding of:
C#.NET, VB.NET, Python, Go, Rust, Java, JavaScript, SQL, PowerShell, BASH, PHP, or other modern programming languages and solid debugging principle
Web Development Frameworks such HTML, CSS, JavaScript
Cloud Application Development
Source Control methodologies with Git based technologies
Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment Pipelines and tooling
Agile Project Management Principles
Experience with REST APIs
Prototyping simple and intermediate complexity applications, algorithms, scripts, and interfaces
OR
Assists with the identification, analysis, reporting, and monitoring of cybersecurity risks.This subject matter specialty will enhance your familiarity with or understanding of:
Information Security Risk Management Frameworks
Risk and threat assessment tools and techniques
Cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and remediation strategies
System security testing and evaluation methodologies
Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Model and networking protocols such as TCP/IP, Dynamic Host Configuration, Domain Name System (DNS), and directory services
IT infrastructure (Networking, Operating Systems, Applications, Databases, Cloud)
Operating system, network security, database security, web security, and/or application security
Laws, regulations, policies, and ethics as they relate to cybersecurity and privacy
Incident response and handling methodologies
Cryptography and key management principles

The Skills to be Successful as a Student Trainee:

You work smart (not just hard), and know how to drive projects, meet deadlines, and get things done.
You have a bias for action and are proactive.
You don't sweat the small stuff, but also understand the importance of paying close attention to detail and being very precise.
You are flexible, creative, curious, and a willing to take initiative.
You are a quick and flexible learner: open-minded, adaptable, comfortable with ambiguity, and excited by dynamic change.
You inspire trust, forge relationships quickly, and earn the confidence and cooperation of your business partners.
You have high standards, integrity, and ethics.

What We're Looking For:

Currently enrolled in an educational institution
A solid team player who's also an independent thinker
Deadline-driven, organized, and able to multitask
A robust analytical skill set
Strong verbal, written and presentation skills
Endless curiosity and a penchant for thinking the impossible
Proficiency with Microsoft Office software products
Attentive to team needs as demonstrated by rapid and high-quality responsiveness to requests
Excellent interpersonal skills; able to maintain solid rapport with team members as well as maintain professionalism with those outside of the team
Excellent oral and written communications skills that demonstrate a professional demeanor and the ability to interact with others with discretion and tact
Keen attention to detail
Capable of identifying and completing tasks independently, with a sense of urgency and ownership
Demonstrated success at maintaining high personal work standards
Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and tact
Strong presentation skills to audiences comprised of all levels of leadership
Highly motivated, self-starter able to work autonomously and drive the work they own forward effectively

Requirements

Conditions of employment

Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen or National
Selective Service: Males born after 12-31-59 must be registered for Selective Service.
Age: You must be at least 16 years of age
You will be required to report to an OPM assigned office.
Background Investigation: Must be suitable for Federal employment as determined by a background investigation.
Student Status: Applicants must have at least 1 academic year (fall and spring session) remaining in their studies before they complete their current degree requirements.
Graduation Status: Applicants that graduate prior to January 2027 will not be considered for this position unless you have been accepted into a follow-on degree or certificate program and provide verification of future enrollment status prior to start date.
Pathways Agreement: If selected, you will be required to sign a Pathways Agreement which specifies the conditions of your employment as we've indicated in this job announcement. You must continue to meet the Pathways Program requirements throughout the duration of your appointment. To verify that you do, we will require proof of your continued enrollment and good standing each semester or grading period throughout your internship. Failure to do so will result in termination of your internship and employment. Trial Period: Selectee must complete a trial period while on the Pathways internship appointment.
Trial Period: Selectee must complete a trial period while on the Pathways internship appointment.
Bargaining Unit:

- This position is eligible for inclusion in the bargaining unit.
  - if the duty station is finalized in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, employees in this position will be represented by the AFGE Local 32.
  - if the duty station is finalized outside the localities above, this position will not be represented by a bargaining unit.

Qualifications

Your application will be considered for the highest grade for which you qualify. You must meet the education requirements detailed below by the close of the vacancy.

GS-4 Completion of two academic years of post-high school study or associate's degree.
GS-5 Completion of four academic years of post-high school study leading to a bachelor's degree or four academic years of pre-professional study

An academic year of undergraduate education is defined as 30 semester hours, 45 quarter hours, or the equivalent in an accredited college or university.

To meet the Intern Eligibility requirements, you must be a student accepted for enrollment or enrolled and seeking a degree (diploma, certificate, etc.) in a qualifying educational institution, on a full or half-time basis (as defined by the institution in which you are enrolled).

Certificate programs must be at least one-year duration of full-time academic study in post-secondary education.

Accepted for Enrollment: If you have been accepted for enrollment in an institution or career or technical education program, but have not yet begun coursework, you must submit an Acceptance Letter from the institution and your most recent academic transcript from your previous program.

NOTE: You will NOT be considered under Pathways unless you provide supporting information from your school. Documentation may be provided in letter format from your academic advisor, school counselor, admission office, etc. to prove enrollment OR it may be provided in the form of several official documents from your school such as a copy of your official transcripts and a copy of your class schedule for next semester. Copies of documents from your school website are acceptable if they contain all relevant information as listed above. Letters from advisors or other school officials must be on school letterhead. Official transcripts will be required prior to final offer of employment.

Education

Additional information

We understand that not everyone will demonstrate proficiency in all of the duties listed in this job posting. At OPM, we strive to raise the bar! We encourage all to apply if you feel your skills and life experiences are transferable to some of the duties listed in this vacancy.

What Do We Offer?
Upon graduation and completion of the student internship program requirements you MAY BE non-competitively converted, without a break in service, to a term (time-limited), career, or career conditional (permanent) appointment in the federal government, to a position up with a full performance level up to the GS-12. Grade level upon conversion will be determined by management and neither conversion nor promotion is guaranteed.

Interns must meet the qualification requirements for the position to which promoted or converted.

This appointment allows for conversion to a permanent appointment. Conversion Eligibility Information Requirements

Extensions: This temporary appointment and may be extended without further competition based on the need of the organization for the work to continue and provided the individual continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional similar vacancies across OPM.

Hourly pay rates range per hour and may vary based on the grade level and duty location.

Relocation expenses will not be paid.

For more information on the Pathways Program, please visit: Pathways Program Fact Sheet

As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider:
- your performance and conduct;
- the needs and interests of the agency;
- whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and
- whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service.

Upon completion of your trial period your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.

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.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How you will be evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Once the application process is complete, your resume will be used to determine whether you meet the job qualifications listed on this announcement.

Qualified applicants will be placed in one of four groupings:

Preference eligible having a compensable service-connected disability of 10 percent or more
Other 10-point preference eligible
5-point preference eligible
No preference eligible

Selection will be made from the highest available preference group, as long as at least three candidates remain in that group. When fewer than three candidates remain in the highest group, consideration may be expanded to include the next grouping.

Required Documents

To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes:

1. Your resume:

Your Resume showing the applicant's name, email address, work schedule, hours worked per week, dates of employment, and duties performed to include pay plan, series, and grade level for relevant federal experience. Your resume must show complete information for each job entry to support minimum qualifications. Only the first 2 pages of the resume/application will be used to verify minimum qualifications. Please be sure to include specific dates of employment and work schedule(s).

2. Transcripts and Proof of Enrollment:

You are required to submit a copy of your transcripts and proof of enrollment.
We accept unofficial transcripts, as long as they contain your name, the name of the school, the date and degree that was awarded, and the list of classes and credits earned.
Official transcripts will be required prior to final offer of employment
If you have been accepted for enrollment in an institution, but have not yet begun coursework, you must submit an Acceptance Letter from the institution, your most recent academic transcript from your previous program and provide proof of future enrollment status prior to start date.

3. Veteran's Documents:
If applying using veteran's preference or under a Veteran's hiring authority you must submit the following documents

DD214 showing character of service, SF-15 Form (and any required documents listed on page 2) and VA letter showing final percentage, or certification of expected discharge or release from active duty.

PLEASE REVIEW THE BELOW LINK FOR OTHER SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS needed for proof of eligibility at FedsHireVets.

An incomplete package may result in loss of consideration due to an incomplete application package. It is your responsibility to ensure all required documents have been submitted.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

How to Apply

To apply and be considered for this position, you must complete all required questionnaires, assessments and submit all required documentation as specified in the How to Apply and Required Documents section. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date of the announcement to receive consideration. The application process is as follows:
1. Click the Apply Online button.
2. Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation.
3. Click the Submit Application button prior to 11:59 PM (ET) on the announcement closing date.
4. If you are required to complete any USA Hire Assessments, you will be notified after submitting your application. The notification will be provided in your application submission screen and via email. The notification will include your unique assessment access link to the USA Hire system and the completion deadline. Additionally, in USAJOBS you can click "Track this application" to return to your assessment completion notice.
5. Access USA Hire using your unique assessment link. Access is granted through your USAJOBS login credentials.
6. Review all instructions prior to beginning your assessments. You will have the opportunity to request a testing accommodation before beginning the assessments should you have a disability covered under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended.
7. Set aside at least 3 hours to take the USA Hire Assessments; however, most applicants complete the assessments in less time. If you need to stop the assessments and continue later, you can re-use your unique assessment link.
8. Your responses to the USA Hire Assessments will be reused for one year (in most cases) from the date you complete an assessment. If future applications you submit require completion of the same assessments, your responses will be automatically reused.

For more general information, system requirements, reasonable accommodation information, and to request assistance regarding the USA Hire Assessments, review the following resources: https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=USA_Hire_Assessments

To update your application, including supporting documentation: During the announcement open period, return to your USAJOBS account, find your application record, and click Edit my application. This option will no longer be available once the announcement has closed.

To view the announcement status or your application status: Click on this: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/howto/application/status/. Your application status page is where you can view your application status, USA Hire assessment completion status, and review your notifications sent by the hiring agency regarding your application.

Reasonable Accommodation Requests: If you believe you have a disability (i.e., physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended that would interfere with completing the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, you will be granted the opportunity to request a RA in your online application. Requests for RA for the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments and appropriate supporting documentation for RA must be received prior to starting the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments. Decisions on requests for RA are made on a case-by-case basis. If you meet the minimum qualifications of the position, after notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation to complete the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, based on your adjudication decision. You must complete all assessments within 48 hours of receiving the URL to access the USA Hire Competency Based Assessments, if you received the link after the close of the announcement. To determine if you need a RA, please review the Procedures for Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for Online Assessments here: https://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/index.php?title=Reasonable_Accommodations_for_USA_Hire

Agency contact information

OPM Human Resources

Phone: 202-606-9321
Email: jobs@opm.gov

Address: OPM Human Resources
1900 E St., NW
Washington, DC 20415
US

Next steps

The Assessment Questionnaire identifies the best qualified applicants to be referred to the hiring manager for further consideration and possible interviews. Your ratings in this Assessment Questionnaire are subject to evaluation and verification based on the documents and references you submit. Later steps in the selection process are specifically designed to verify your ratings.

What You Can Expect Next
Once your online application is submitted you will receive confirmation emails at various points in the hiring process. Please be sure to check your SPAM box.

The Summer Student Internship Cohort is expected to start at the end of May 2026 and continue through August 2026 or, in some cases a student intern may be extended without further competition. Please consider these dates before submitting an application.

An agency may not request, orally, in writing, or electronically through the USA Jobs website or other electronic means, that an applicant for appointment for a position in the civil service disclose criminal history record information before the appointing agency extends a conditional offer of employment. If you believe you were asked about your criminal history improperly, contact the agency or visit https://www.opm.gov/about-us/careers-at-opm/opportunities/

Student Trainee (Information Technology) Job