Advance Your Career: Program Manager at U.S. Customs and Border Protection

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is seeking a highly skilled Program Manager to join the Office of Information and Technology (OIT) in San Diego, California. If you are a seasoned professional looking to apply your leadership expertise to high-stakes, mission-critical IT environments, this role offers the opportunity to secure the nation's borders while driving technical innovation.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Manager (GS-14), you will be tasked with:

Strategic Direction: Planning and coordinating professional and technical services for IT programs.
Process Improvement: Utilizing statistical methods and process mapping to enhance service delivery.
Leadership: Managing teams and providing expert advice on administrative programs to high-level officials.
Problem Resolution: Navigating complex legal and policy interpretations to resolve unique operational challenges.

Requirements

To be eligible, candidates must be U.S. citizens, meet the 52-week time-in-grade requirement if currently employed by the federal government, and pass a rigorous background check. A residency requirement of three of the last five years in the U.S. also applies.

Comparison Table: Qualifications at a Glance

Criteria	Requirement
Citizenship	U.S. Citizen
Experience Level	GS-14 Equivalent
Location	San Diego, CA
Security	Background Investigation Required
Education	Relevant to specific duties

Salary Overview

The compensation for this position is set at the GS-14 level, starting at $143,677 and reaching up to $186,785 per year based on experience and step progression.

Benefits

Employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package including:

Health, Dental, and Vision insurance.
Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
Flexible work schedules and career development opportunities.

Application Tips

Ensure your resume is submitted in PDF format and does not exceed two pages. Your documentation must clearly illustrate how your previous experience meets the specialized requirements of the role. Take the USA Hire assessments seriously—they are a critical part of the candidate screening process.

This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the safety and security of the United States. If you possess the experience, drive, and dedication required, apply today through the USAJobs portal to begin your journey with the Department of Homeland Security.

Why This Program Manager Job Matters

Shape the future of national security as a Program Manager for U.S. Customs and Border Protection in sunny San Diego.

Program Manager Job Overview

Join the Department of Homeland Security's Office of Information and Technology (OIT) to lead high-impact, mission-critical projects. As a Program Manager in San Diego, you will drive strategic initiatives, optimize complex IT processes, and provide expert guidance to leadership, directly contributing to the security and efficiency of the nation's borders.

Requirements for Program Manager

U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
Males born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must have resided in the U.S. or its protectorates for at least three of the last five years.
Must be able to pass a rigorous background investigation.
Subject to the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan.
Must possess a valid state driver's license.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager

Expertise in planning, coordinating, and evaluating complex IT activities.
Proven experience leading high-visibility projects that span multiple organizational lines.
Demonstrated ability to develop strategic plans and provide authoritative advice to senior officials.
Strong analytical skills using statistical methods and process mapping to improve service delivery and reduce costs.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
✓Federal retirement plan and Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style)
✓Life and long-term care insurance
✓Flexible spending accounts
✓Paid federal holidays and personal leave
✓Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
✓Fitness centers and wellness programs

💡 How to Apply Program Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Manager Job

Review the full vacancy announcement carefully.
Prepare your resume (maximum two pages) ensuring it details your duties, dates, and salary/grade.
Complete the online application and questionnaire at the USA Staffing portal.
Submit your application and all required documents before the closing date.
Monitor your email for a unique link to the required USA Hire competency-based assessments.
Complete the assessments within the designated timeframe.

💡 General Tips

Upload your resume as a PDF to preserve formatting and document quality.
Ensure your resume explicitly mentions how your experience meets the GS-14 qualification requirements.
Avoid using password-protected documents.
Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire assessments.
Double-check that all federal employee supporting documents (SF-50s) are included if applicable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary for this GS-14 position ranges from $143,677 to $186,785 per year, depending on step and locality.

Is a security clearance required?

While this specific role states 'Not Required' in the formal field, all CBP applicants undergo a thorough background investigation regarding criminal history and controlled substance use.

Can I work remotely?

This position is located in San Diego, CA and is not marked as a remote position.

Job from Customs And Border Protection

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is the cornerstone of the nation's border security. From screening international travelers to seizing prohibited goods and securing cyberspace, CBP professionals work around the clock to protect American interests. Joining the OIT team means becoming part of a sophisticated workforce that values vigilance, integrity, and service.