Become a Guardian of Integrity: Program Specialist at the Bonneville Power Administration
Are you a detail-oriented professional with a passion for ethics, compliance, and workplace integrity? The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), an integral part of the U.S. Department of Energy, is seeking a qualified Program Specialist (Hotline) to join its team in Portland, Oregon. This high-impact role is designed for individuals who thrive on conducting complex investigations, managing confidential concerns, and shaping organizational culture.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Specialist (Hotline), your primary responsibilities will include:
- Investigative Excellence: Independently planning and executing objective investigations into employee concerns, including fraud, waste, abuse, and potential retaliation.
- Liaison Duties: Acting as the primary point of contact for the Department of Energy’s Office of Inspector General (OIG).
- Risk Assessment: Triage incoming reports to determine jurisdictional scope and the necessary investigative path.
- Program Outreach: Developing and delivering training to foster a culture of transparency and awareness regarding employee rights and reporting options.
- Reporting: Analyzing complaint data to uncover trends and provide strategic recommendations to executive leadership.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Possess at least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Be registered with the Selective Service (if applicable).
- Submit a complete application package, including a comprehensive two-page resume.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Qualification Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | United States |
| Education | None specific required |
| Experience | 1 Year specialized (comparable GS grade) |
| Location | Portland, OR (In-person) |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $114,684 – $149,091 per year. Beyond the salary, BPA provides access to a comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance, retirement planning, paid time off, and wellness initiatives through the 'Be Well' program.
Application Tips
- Customize Your Resume: Ensure every experience is documented with specific dates, hours, and salary information.
- Check Your Email: If you receive an assessment request, you typically have 48 hours to complete it.
- Use the Help Center: If you encounter technical issues, the USAJOBS Help Center is your best resource for troubleshooting.
This role offers a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in a premier federal agency. If you have the skills to maintain high standards of ethical conduct and the drive to improve operational performance, we encourage you to apply by the closing date.
Why This Program Specialist (Hotline) Job Matters
Ready to champion integrity and safeguard the future of the Pacific Northwest's energy landscape? Step into a high-impact oversight role at the Bonneville Power Administration.
Program Specialist (Hotline) Job Overview
The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) is seeking a dedicated Program Specialist (Hotline) to join the Oversight Organization in Portland, Oregon. In this pivotal role, you will act as a guardian of agency ethics, managing the employee concerns hotline and conducting objective investigations into allegations of fraud, waste, abuse, and misconduct. You will serve as a key liaison to the Department of Energy’s Office of Inspector General, driving transparency and fostering a workplace culture anchored in accountability.
Requirements for Program Specialist (Hotline)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level in federal service.
- Ability to plan and conduct complex investigations into fraud, waste, abuse, or misconduct.
- Expertise in interviewing witnesses and managing confidential case files.
- Demonstrated experience drafting technical reports and developing training programs.
- Registration with the Selective Service (for males born after 1959).
- Must be able to report in person to the Portland, Oregon duty station.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Specialist (Hotline)
- Strong background in administrative program oversight.
- Proven ability to serve as a liaison between internal management and external oversight bodies like the OIG.
- Experience in risk assessment and complaint triage.
- Background in facilitating alternative dispute resolution.
- Exceptional written and oral communication skills for executive-level reporting.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Comprehensive Health Insurance
- ✓Retirement Savings Plans
- ✓Paid Time Off
- ✓Work-Life Balance Programs
- ✓Be Well wellness initiative
- ✓Professional Development and Training
💡 How to Apply Program Specialist (Hotline) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Specialist (Hotline) Job
- Create or sign into your account on login.gov via the official job portal.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your two-page resume detailing your duties, employer addresses, dates of employment, and salary history.
- Attach required documentation, such as transcripts or proof of eligibility (SF-50, DD-214, etc.).
- Submit the application package by the closing date.
- Complete the required USA Hire Competency-Based Assessments if prompted by email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the specialized experience requirements mentioned in the job description.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents are attached before hitting submit.
- Monitor your email, including spam and junk folders, for important status updates or assessment invites.
- Set aside at least 3 hours to complete the USA Hire assessments if required.
- Utilize the Resume Builder if you are unsure how to format your federal experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Program Specialist role?
The role focuses on managing the employee concerns hotline, conducting investigations into workplace misconduct, and collaborating with the OIG to maintain agency integrity.
Is this position remote?
No, this position requires reporting in person to the official duty location in Portland, Oregon.
What documentation do I need to prove my experience?
You must provide a detailed two-page resume that lists your specific duties, employers, hours worked, and salary for each role to demonstrate one year of relevant experience.
What if I don't have a performance appraisal?
*A: If you lack a recent appraisal, provide a formal statement explaining why it is unavailable when requested by HR.*
Can I apply for more than one BPA vacancy?
*A: Yes, this announcement may be used to fill similar vacancies across the Department of Energy.*
Job from Bonneville Power Administration
The Bonneville Power Administration is a nonprofit federal power marketing administration based in the Pacific Northwest. While operating within the Department of Energy, the BPA is self-funding, covering its costs by providing clean, reliable, and affordable hydroelectric and other power sources to the region. The agency is deeply committed to environmental stewardship, operational excellence, and, most importantly, its employees.