This is an entry-level training position to be filled at the GS-301-7 level through Career Opportunity Training Agreement (COTA), with the intent of promoting the incumbent to the GS-9 level after successful completion of training assignments designed to enable them to successfully perform their duties at the GS-9 level. The incumbent of this position performs nearly all of the duties in the target position of Program Specialist GS-301-9; however, this is done under closer supervisory controls.

Duties

As a Program Specialist (Trainee), you will receive on-the-job and/or formal training to develop analytical skills. Assignments will be developmental and progressively more difficult, designed to improve your grasp and understanding of the methodology and performance of work assignments. Participate in the development and implementation of comprehensive plans and strategies for the internal and external integration of day-to-day and long-range projects, actions and activities Analyze and evaluate, on a quantitative or qualitative basis, the effectiveness of programs or operations in meeting established goals and objectives and analyze program performance data to identify issues and make recommendations for improvement. Participate with senior specialists in the coordination, preparation, and analysis of a wide variety of reports. Provide advice and guidance of a factual nature regarding well-precedented issues and interpret established and pertinent regulations and organizational policies, management principles, and administrative rules. Participate in developing timely and executable plans of action for assigned programs requiring extensive coordination. Participate in special studies, which include analyzing data, developing formats to report the results of studies, and recommending alternative courses of action.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizenship requirement or proof of being a U.S. National must be met by closing date.
• Employment is subject to the successful completion of the pre-appointment process (i.e., background investigation, verification of qualifications and job requirements, completion of onboarding forms, submission of required documents, etc.)
• Males born after December 31, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
• Applicants must meet all qualifications requirements within thirty (30) calendar days of the closing date of this announcement, including time in grade.

Qualifications

The COTA allows for a time-limited suspension on experience requirements specified in the OPM Qualification Standards so that the trainee may receive intensive developmental assignments to prepare and qualify for the targeted series and grade. To be considered for the position, applicants must be currently employed by the NIH; be a GS-7 or above, or a wage grade equivalent; have competitive status or be serving under an excepted appointment without time limitations under Schedule A Authorities for the disabled or the Veterans Readjustment Act; demonstrate the skills necessary for development of and entrance into technical, administrative or professional careers; and have a current record of performance that is acceptable. Do not copy and paste the duties, specialized experience, or occupational assessment questionnaire from this announcement into your resume as that will not be considered a demonstration of your qualifications for this position. To determine your qualifications and referral status, we may review your resume and supporting documentation and compare it against your responses to the vacancy questionnaire. Ensure you support your self-ratings with the information you provide in your application. We may verify or assess your qualifications at any time. Inflated or unsupported qualifications may affect your rating. Any misrepresentation or material omission of facts may be sufficient cause to end further consideration of your candidacy. Persons listed as knowing your past accomplishments or experience in your application may be contacted for verification purposes at any time. Verification may, but need not, begin before receiving an offer. Preview assessment questionnaire before you apply: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12565817

Education

Contacts

• Address National Institutes of Health 6701 Rockledge Drive Bethesda, MD 20892 US
• Name: Nina Wilson
• Email: [email protected]