About the opportunity
This position is with the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Finance, Financial Operations, located in Indianapolis, Indiana. Selected individuals participate in a dynamic one-year development program in the excepted service designed to lead to a competitive civil service career in the Federal government. At the successful conclusion of this program, the agency may non-competitively convert individuals to a term or permanent position within the competitive service. Typical duties include gathering, compiling, entering, and reviewing financial data to support assigned financial programs, budgetary status, expenditure tracking, and performance measures. The position starts at a salary range of $50,930 to $80,991 per year, with promotion potential up to $117,446.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive salary ranging from $50,930 to $80,991 per year with promotion potential up to $117,446
- Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance
- Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401(k))
- Flexible Spending Account and Employee Assistance Program
- Personal leave days and paid federal holidays
- Flexible work schedules, tuition reimbursement, and transportation subsidies
- Health and wellness programs and access to fitness centers
Who can apply?
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must have primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years
- Completed, within the previous two years by November 9, 2026, a qualifying associate's, bachelor's, master's, professional, doctorate, vocational, or technical degree or certificate
- For GS-7: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level, or a Bachelor's degree with Superior Academic Achievement, or 1 year of full-time graduate education
- For GS-9: 1 year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-7 grade level, or a Master's degree or 2 full years of progressively higher-level graduate education
- Must complete an online assessment and meet or exceed the cut score
Required documents
- A resume in English containing full legal name, phone number, relevant work history, detailed description of duties, dates performed, hours worked per week, job title, and series, grade, and salary if applicable (maximum of two pages)
- Responses to the job questionnaire
- Responses to the USA Hire Competency Based Assessment
- College transcripts (unofficial is acceptable at application stage; official required prior to entrance on duty)
- Proof of eligibility if claiming veterans' preference or military service extensions (such as DD-214, SF-15, or VA Disability Award letter)
- SF-50(s) if a current or former federal employee
When to apply
- Date posted: October 27, 2026
- Application closing date: November 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM (ET)
How to apply
- Click the Apply Online button on USAJOBS
- Answer the questions presented in the application and attach all necessary supporting documentation
- Submit the application prior to 11:59 PM (ET) on November 9, 2026
- Complete the required online USA Hire Assessments using the unique link provided after application submission
Additional information
- Bargaining unit position represented by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU)
- Requires passing a background investigation and drug testing per the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan
- A Pathways Participant Agreement is required prior to entrance on duty
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Recent graduates with a degree in finance, business, accounting, or related fields looking to launch a federal career
- Candidates who possess strong administrative, database management, and financial analysis skills
- Individuals seeking a structured development program with mentorship, formal training, and clear pathways to permanent civil service
What should you think carefully about?
- Must meet strict U.S. residency requirements of living in the country for at least three of the last five years
- Requires successfully passing a rigorous online USA Hire Competency Based Assessment and a thorough background investigation
- Relocation to Indianapolis, Indiana is required as the physical work location
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for recent graduates aiming to secure stable employment within the federal government while building robust financial program management skills. It offers a structured stepping stone into civil service with opportunities for long-term career growth and conversion.
Our take
Recent graduates with an educational background or experience in financial administration who meet citizenship and residency requirements should seriously consider applying. Those unable to relocate to Indianapolis or unwilling to undergo extensive federal background checks may find this role less suitable.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
