About the opportunity
This position is part of the Pathways Recent Graduates Program within the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Office of Finance. The program is a one-year developmental appointment in the excepted service designed to provide recent graduates with professional experience in federal accounting. Participants will support general ledger operations, perform reconciliations, compile financial data, and ensure compliance with federal accounting standards. Upon successful completion of the program, participants may be non-competitively converted to a term or permanent position in the competitive service. The role is based in Indianapolis, Indiana, and involves working within a team to maintain financial integrity and support the agency’s mission.
Salary and benefits
- Competitive federal salary starting at GS-7 to GS-9 levels
- Health, dental, vision, life, and long-term care insurance
- Retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401(k) equivalent)
- Flexible work schedules and paid federal holidays
- Tuition reimbursement and transportation subsidies
- Mentorship and individual development planning
- At least 40 hours of formal, interactive training per year
Who can apply?
- Must be a U.S. citizen
- Must have completed a qualifying degree or certificate within the previous two years (or up to six years for certain veterans)
- Must meet basic education requirements in accounting (degree in accounting or related field with 24 semester hours in accounting)
- Must meet residency requirements (physically resided in the U.S. for at least three of the last five years)
- Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service
- Must pass a background investigation and drug testing
Required documents
- Resume (maximum two pages, in English)
- College transcripts (unofficial acceptable for application)
- Responses to the online job questionnaire
- Proof of veterans' preference (if applicable)
- SF-50 (for current or former federal employees, if applicable)
When to apply
- Application deadline: 2026-11-09 at 11:59 PM ET
How to apply
- Create or log into a USAJOBS account
- Complete the online application and questionnaire
- Upload all required documents, including transcripts and resume
- Submit the application by the deadline
- Complete the required USA Hire Competency Based Assessments via the link provided after submission
Additional information
- This is a bargaining unit position represented by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU)
- The position requires an online assessment with a mandatory cut score
- Conversion to a permanent position is at the discretion of the agency and is not guaranteed
- Applicants must be able to perform all duties in English
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 accounting, finance, or business administration looking for a structured entry into federal service
- Individuals who excel in analytical tasks, data reconciliation, and financial reporting
- Candidates seeking a long-term career path within the federal government with clear advancement potential
- Applicants who value comprehensive federal benefits and professional development mentorship
What should you think carefully about?
- The role requires a strict residency history of three out of the last five years in the U.S.
- The application process includes a mandatory, time-intensive online assessment that must be completed within a short window
- Conversion to a permanent position is not guaranteed and depends on performance and agency needs
- The resume is strictly limited to two pages; exceeding this will result in disqualification
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This opportunity is ideal for recent graduates aiming to bridge the gap between academic study and a professional career. It provides a stable, supported environment to gain specialized federal accounting experience, which is highly transferable. Whether your goal is to secure a permanent federal role or to build a strong foundation in government financial operations, this program offers the necessary training and mentorship to achieve those objectives.
Our take
Recent graduates with the required accounting coursework should seriously consider this role if they are looking for a structured, stable career start. It is less suitable for those who require immediate permanent status or who cannot meet the specific U.S. residency requirements.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verifiedSource: USAJOBS
