Advance Your Career: Program Analyst (GS-15) at the Department of the Interior

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for risk management and organizational excellence? The Department of the Interior (DOI) is currently seeking a highly skilled Program Analyst to join the Office of Planning and Performance Management. This GS-15 role is ideal for experienced professionals looking to make a significant impact on how the federal government identifies, assesses, and mitigates risks to ensure mission success.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Analyst, you will not just observe the status quo; you will shape it. Your primary duties include:

Serving as the technical lead for the Departmental Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program.
Coordinating with senior leadership to build and manage the Enterprise Risk Register.
Translating complex data into actionable briefings for high-level officials.
Integrating risk assessment protocols into budgeting and strategic planning cycles.

Requirements

This is a senior-level position. To be considered, you must demonstrate:

Specialized Experience: At least one full year of work equivalent to the GS-14 grade level.
Risk Expertise: A deep understanding of risk identification, prioritization, and monitoring.
Documentation: A concise 2-page resume that outlines your duties, hours worked, and achievements.
Compliance: Ability to obtain and maintain a government travel card and pass necessary background screenings.

Feature	Details
Series	0343 Management and Program Analysis
Grade	GS-15
Salary	$169,279 - $197,200 per year
Work Schedule	Full-Time
Locations	Washington, D.C.; Herndon, VA; Reston, VA

Salary and Benefits

At the GS-15 level, the remuneration reflects the high level of expertise required. Beyond a competitive salary, the federal government offers a robust benefits package, including:

Federal Health Insurance (FEHB) and Life Insurance (FEGLI).
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
Generous leave accrual (annual and sick).
Flexible work-life balance options including telework.

Application Tips

Format Matters: Do not exceed the 2-page limit for your resume. The automated system will not review excess pages.
Performance Data: Submit your most recent performance appraisal and a list of awards. These are given 'due weight' by the hiring manager.
Assessments: Be prepared to complete the USA Hire assessment. Use the provided study resources to ensure you are ready.

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence national-level strategy within the Department of the Interior. If you have the drive to lead risk management programs and possess the requisite experience, we encourage you to submit your application package before the August 28, 2026, deadline.

Why This Program Analyst Job Matters

Shape the future of organizational resilience at the Department of the Interior—join our team as a Program Analyst and lead critical enterprise risk management initiatives.

Program Analyst Job Overview

The Department of the Interior (DOI) is seeking a high-level Program Analyst to serve as a primary technical advisor within the Office of Planning and Performance Management. This role is pivotal in establishing and overseeing the Department's Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) program. You will collaborate with senior leadership to integrate risk assessment into decision-making, manage enterprise risk registers, and develop organizational policy to ensure mission success across a diverse federal landscape.

Requirements for Program Analyst

Must be a U.S. citizen.
Must possess one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level (or equivalent in private/public sector).
Must be able to pass a background investigation and obtain favorable adjudication.
Must register for Selective Service if male and born after December 31, 1959.
Must maintain a government travel charge card.
Must file a financial disclosure report within 30 days of appointment.
Submission of a maximum 2-page resume adhering to specific formatting requirements.
Completion of required USA Hire Assessments.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst

Direct experience in managing organization-wide Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) programs.
Proven ability to brief senior leadership on complex financial, operational, or legal risks.
Experience in cross-agency coordination and policy development.
Demonstrated proficiency in developing risk registers and assessment methodologies.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance programs.
✓Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
✓Paid federal holidays and generous annual/sick leave accrual.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
✓Flexible work arrangements including telework options.
✓Life insurance and long-term care insurance options.

💡 How to Apply Program Analyst Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Analyst Job

Review the full job announcement and requirements.
Prepare a 2-page resume that explicitly states hours worked per week.
Gather supporting documentation (SF-50s, performance appraisals, and awards).
Click the Apply Online button via the USAJOBS portal.
Complete the application questionnaire and upload documents.
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on August 28, 2026.
Complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessment if notified.

💡 General Tips

Your resume must not exceed 2 pages; ensure it is formatted with at least 0.5-inch margins.
Clearly indicate hours worked per week to ensure your specialized experience is properly credited.
Submit your most recent performance appraisal and award list from the last 5 years for due weight consideration.
Take the USA Hire Assessment seriously; set aside 3 hours in a quiet environment to complete it.
Double-check that all required documents (SF-50s, etc.) are attached before hitting submit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is telework available for this position?

Yes, this position is eligible for telework, though specific arrangements will be discussed upon selection.

Can I substitute education for the specialized experience requirement?

No, this position requires specific professional experience and does not allow for the substitution of education.

What is the travel requirement?

You may be expected to travel away from your duty station for up to 5 nights per month.

Job from Office Of The Secretary Of The Interior

The Department of the Interior (DOI) acts as the nation’s primary steward of natural resources, cultural heritage, and trust responsibilities for American Indians and Alaska Natives. Joining the Office of the Secretary means you will be at the heartbeat of operations, working on initiatives that support the Secretary’s vision and long-term department-wide goals.