Lead Passport Operations: Program Manager Opportunity in El Paso
The U.S. Department of State, the nation's premier foreign policy institution, is looking for a dedicated leader to serve as a Program Manager at the El Paso Passport Agency. This position offers a unique chance to shape the policies and operations that secure our nation's borders through the management of passport issuance. If you are an experienced leader looking to make a meaningful impact, this is your opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As a Program Manager, you will serve as the Director of the El Paso Passport Agency. Key responsibilities include:
- Strategic Oversight: Planning, directing, and evaluating passport production and adjudication services.
- Operational Integrity: Directing anti-fraud programs and training staff on document security.
- Policy Guidance: Translating complex federal laws and regulations into efficient, public-facing service policies.
- Resource Management: Developing and defending annual budgets to ensure the agency has the tools to succeed.
- Representation: Serving as a department representative on interagency boards.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-15 position, you must demonstrate a deep background in federal program management. Requirements include:
- One year of specialized experience at the GS-14 level.
- Extensive knowledge of passport adjudication and production.
- Ability to supervise staff and manage agency-wide human capital.
- Willingness to undergo a Top Secret security clearance and drug testing.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Program Manager (Director) |
| Grade | GS-15 |
| Location | El Paso, Texas |
| Salary Range | $147,945 - $192,331 |
| Closing Date | October 13, 2026 |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated within the GS-15 pay scale. The base salary range is $147,945 to $192,331 per year, depending on qualifications and standard federal pay adjustments.
Benefits
Employees of the Department of State enjoy a world-class federal benefits package, including:
- Health, vision, and dental insurance.
- Flexible spending accounts.
- Retirement and pension plans through FERS.
- The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous leave policy.
Application Tips
- Keep it concise: Your resume must be under two pages.
- Be specific: Detail your experience in fraud protection and budget management clearly.
- Prepare for assessment: Dedicate at least two hours to the online competency assessments.
Serving as a Program Manager in the Passport Agency is a pivotal role that balances operational excellence with national security. If you are ready to lead and serve, we encourage you to review the full details and submit your application via USAJOBS.
Why This Program Manager Job Matters
Lead the future of passport services in El Paso. The U.S. Department of State is seeking an experienced, strategic leader to oversee high-stakes passport operations and drive mission-critical agency success.
Program Manager Job Overview
The El Paso Passport Agency, a vital component of the Bureau of Consular Affairs, is hiring a high-level Program Manager. In this role, you will act as a Director, spearheading policy implementation, managing complex operational budgets, and ensuring the integrity of our nation's passport production. You will supervise diverse teams, manage anti-fraud initiatives, and represent the agency at the interagency level. This is an elite opportunity for a senior leader to influence national security through efficient and secure passport issuance.
Requirements for Program Manager
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level in the federal government.
- Proven experience directing, overseeing, and evaluating passport adjudication and production services.
- Comprehensive supervisory experience managing functional responsibilities of an agency or center.
- Expertise in analyzing productivity, quality, workload, and legal compliance.
- Experience representing an agency on interagency boards or committees.
- Must be able to pass a rigorous Top Secret security clearance investigation.
- Subject to mandatory drug testing.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager
- Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate high-performing teams in high-pressure environments.
- Strong strategic thinking capabilities with a focus on long-term policy development.
- Exceptional interpersonal and oral communication skills.
- Proven decision-making abilities based on objective analysis and complex factual circumstances.
- High capacity for human capital management and staff development.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Generous retirement programs (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching
- ✓Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and leadership training
- ✓Situational telework options (subject to approval)
- ✓Work-life balance programs
💡 How to Apply Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Manager Job
- Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to two pages.
- Visit the official USAJOBS platform to create or update your profile.
- Complete the online competency-based assessment within the provided timeframe.
- Upload all required documentation, including SF-50s and performance appraisals, to the application system.
- Submit your application before the 11:59 p.m. ET closing date on October 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Your resume must explicitly include start/end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Resumes exceeding the two-page limit will be disqualified; focus on impact and relevant achievements.
- Be clear and specific in your descriptions; the hiring team will not make assumptions about your experience.
- Ensure your responses to the online assessment questions are fully supported by the content in your resume.
- Set aside at least two hours of uninterrupted time to complete the mandatory assessments.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected timeline for this hiring process?
After the application closes, the review and referral process typically takes about two weeks. Selected candidates will then undergo a security background investigation, which generally spans two to six months.
Is telework permitted for this role?
Yes, situational telework agreements may be approved by a supervisor, depending on the operational needs of the agency.
What happens if I submit a resume longer than two pages?
Per the vacancy announcement, any resume exceeding the two-page limit will be considered ineligible and will not receive further review.
Are there education requirements?
No, education requirements do not apply to this specific vacancy.
Can I apply for similar roles?
Yes, qualified applicants may be referred to other similar positions within the Bureau for up to 240 days.
Job from Department Of State Headquarters
The Bureau of Consular Affairs (CA) is essential to the mission of the U.S. Department of State. Tasked with protecting the lives and interests of American citizens overseas and ensuring the integrity of our national identity documents, CA is a dynamic organization committed to diplomacy and public service. Working with us means joining a globally recognized team that values innovation, leadership, and professional growth.