Advance Your Career: Program Manager Role at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Are you a seasoned project leader looking to make a significant impact on national infrastructure? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring a Program Manager (GS-14) to lead the Programs and Project Controls Branch in Sacramento, California. This role is essential for ensuring that critical Civil Works and military projects are executed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
Job Responsibilities
As the Branch Chief, your duties will include:
- Program Strategy: Developing and justifying prioritized Civil Works programs.
- Financial Management: Overseeing complex revenue forecasting, fund control, and financial reporting for military and international projects.
- Strategic Counseling: Providing critical advice to district command and technical chiefs regarding project policy and resource allocation.
- Partnership Management: Navigating the complex regulatory landscape involving state and local stakeholders.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-14 level role, candidates must meet stringent requirements:
- Experience: One year of specialized experience performing tasks similar to a GS-13 level in program management, including budget oversight and project lifecycles.
- Certification: Possession of a valid, job-related professional license.
- Federal Service: Proof of 52 weeks of federal service at the GS-13 level (if currently in the federal system).
Comparison: Standard vs. Federal Program Management
| Feature | Federal (USACE) | Private Sector |
|---|---|---|
| Funding Source | Congressional Appropriations | Client Revenue |
| Project Scope | National Infrastructure/Military | Commercial/Private Development |
| Job Security | High (Career-conditional) | Market Dependent |
| Growth Path | Structured GS Progression | Merit/Performance Based |
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive federal salary ranging from $139,422 to $181,254 per year, including locality pay adjustments appropriate for the Sacramento, CA area.
Benefits
Employees of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers enjoy robust benefits, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance plans.
- Federal pension (FERS) and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-equivalent).
- Significant paid leave and public holidays.
- Professional development and leadership training.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Do not exceed this.
- Detailed History: Ensure your resume clearly states the hours per week for every previous role.
- Assessments: Be prepared to dedicate two hours to the USAHire assessments once invited.
This GS-14 Program Manager role is a career-defining opportunity to lead in one of the most prestigious engineering organizations in the nation. If you meet the criteria and are ready to contribute your skills to meaningful national projects, submit your application before the July 15, 2026, deadline.
Why This Program Manager Job Matters
Lead critical infrastructure and environmental projects as a GS-14 Program Manager with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Sacramento.
Program Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is seeking a highly skilled Program Manager to serve as Chief of the Programs and Project Controls Branch. This leadership role is responsible for overseeing the life-cycle management of complex Civil Works, Military, and Interagency and International Services (IIS) programs. You will guide a multi-disciplinary team, manage significant project budgets, and provide expert counsel to district leadership regarding policy, funding, and scheduling. This is a pivotal role for those who excel at integrating technical expertise with strategic program governance.
Requirements for Program Manager
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must have 52 weeks of federal service at the GS-13 level or equivalent if currently in a GS position.
- Must have one year of specialized experience in program management, business processes, and budget control for military or civil works programs.
- Must hold a valid, job-related professional license or certification.
- Must be able to pass a background check and suitability determination.
- Must submit a resume of two pages or less.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager
- Extensive experience with MILCON/IIS project lifecycles.
- Demonstrated ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams in a high-pressure environment.
- Deep understanding of federal fiscal policies and funding appropriations.
- Strong communication skills for interacting with regulators, local governments, and command-level leadership.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual
- ✓Potential for relocation, recruitment, or retention incentives
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Manager Job
- Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Gather supporting documentation, including SF-50 forms and professional licenses.
- Click the 'Apply Online' button and complete the USAHire questionnaire.
- Monitor email for the link to the mandatory USAHire assessments.
- Complete assessments within 48 hours of notification.
- Submit the full application package before 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; the two-page limit is strictly enforced.
- Use plain language and avoid obscure acronyms in your professional history.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details the hours worked per week for every position listed.
- Do not wait until the final hour to submit; technical issues can delay your application.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is education a substitute for experience in this role?
No. For this position, you must meet the qualification requirements through specialized work experience alone.
What happens if my resume exceeds two pages?
Your application will be deemed incomplete and you will be removed from consideration.
Are the USAHire assessments required?
Yes. Failure to complete these assessments within the required timeframe will result in automatic disqualification.
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the most respected engineering and construction management agencies in the world. As a premier federal employer, USACE prides itself on delivering innovative solutions to complex engineering challenges that affect the national economy and public safety. Joining the Sacramento district means working with a collaborative, mission-driven team dedicated to excellence.