Launch Your Career: Air Force Prevention Specialist (PALACE Acquire)
Starting a career in public service is a noble and rewarding path, especially when that service directly improves the lives of our nation's military members and their families. The Department of the Air Force is currently seeking motivated individuals for the Prevention Specialist role through the prestigious PALACE Acquire (PAQ) program. This internship is designed to mold recent graduates into high-performing civilian professionals within the Department of Defense.
Job Responsibilities
As a Prevention Specialist intern, you will play a vital role in the health and readiness of the force. Your responsibilities include:
- Implementing integrated prevention activities related to family violence, sexual assault, and substance abuse.
- Developing and maintaining Community Action Team (CAT) materials.
- Conducting interviews to assess client needs and providing referral services.
- Analyzing social trends to help leadership implement effective organizational plans.
Requirements
To qualify for this GS-07 opportunity, you must meet the following criteria:
- Education: A bachelor's degree (or higher) completed within the last two years.
- Academic Standing: Must demonstrate Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 2.95+ or upper third of class).
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Documents: You must provide transcripts and a professional resume (maximum 2 pages).
Salary Overview
The PALACE Acquire program offers a competitive pay structure tailored to federal standards. Below is a comparison of typical career progression milestones.
| Stage | Career Status | Salary Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Internship Start | Entry Level GS-07 Scale |
| Year 2-3 | Formal Training | Yearly Increase Potential |
| Completion | Permanent Conversion | GS-11 Equivalent |
Benefits
Employees in this program benefit from the comprehensive federal package, including:
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid federal holidays and sick leave.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Continuous professional mentoring.
Application Tips
- Format Matters: Do not exceed the two-page limit for your resume.
- Clarity: Ensure every job entry includes the number of hours worked per week.
- Compliance: Complete the HireVue interview process as directed; failing to do so will result in an incomplete application.
If you are a recent graduate passionate about social sciences and making a tangible difference in the lives of military families, the PALACE Acquire program is your gateway to a meaningful federal career. Apply before the deadline to ensure your materials are considered for this critical mission.
Why This Prevention Specialist Job Matters
Launch your career with the U.S. Air Force: Make a lasting impact by driving integrated prevention strategies for military families and communities.
Prevention Specialist Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking proactive and dedicated individuals to join the PALACE Acquire Internship program as Prevention Specialists. This civilian career path offers a unique opportunity to help shape Air Force readiness by addressing critical societal challenges, including suicide, sexual assault, harassment, and substance misuse. As a participant in this structured internship, you will receive professional development, structured training, and a clear path toward a permanent civilian career in the federal government.
Requirements for Prevention Specialist
- U.S. Citizenship eligibility.
- Completion of a bachelor's degree (or graduate degree) from an accredited institution within the last two years.
- Must meet Superior Academic Achievement (SAA) criteria if qualifying based on undergraduate GPA.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a two-page maximum resume detailing relevant experience, including hours worked per week.
- Successful completion of a probationary or trial period.
Preferred Qualifications for Prevention Specialist
- Degree in behavioral or social sciences, or closely related disciplines.
- Experience in interviewing and assessing client needs.
- Strong background in providing guidance on personal financial management, relocation, or family readiness.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret social service data to improve program outcomes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with growth potential.
- ✓Structured 2-3 year formal training plan.
- ✓Eligibility for yearly salary increases based on performance.
- ✓Access to federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Comprehensive professional development and mentorship.
- ✓Path to a permanent, non-competitive conversion status.
💡 How to Apply Prevention Specialist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Prevention Specialist Job
- Log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload a resume strictly limited to two pages.
- Submit all required transcripts demonstrating degree completion.
- Complete the HireVue digital assessment.
- Ensure all documents are submitted by the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; additional pages will disqualify your application.
- Clearly state hours worked per week and specific dates for all previous employment.
- Ensure your transcripts clearly indicate your degree conferral date.
- Use the HireVue platform promptly to ensure your assessment is recorded before the deadline.
- Review your application status via the official portal to ensure all documents were received.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PALACE Acquire Program?
It is a specialized Air Force internship that provides recent graduates with a structured training plan and a direct path to a permanent, full-time federal position.
Can I use volunteer experience to qualify?
Yes, volunteer work that builds relevant competencies in behavioral or social sciences is recognized and can be counted toward your experience.
Is relocation assistance offered?
Relocation expenses are generally not provided for this specific announcement.
What happens when the internship ends?
Upon successful completion of your 2-3 year training plan and supervisor approval, you are placed into a permanent position.
Can I apply if I haven't graduated yet?
You may apply if you are near graduation, provided you meet the requirements by the appointment date.
Job from Air Force Civilian Career Training
The United States Air Force mission is to fly, fight, and win in air, space, and cyberspace. To achieve this, the Air Force relies on its core values: Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. The Talent Readiness division, which manages this internship, focuses on developing Airmen and integrating essential support operations that ensure mission success.