Launch Your Tech Career with the Air Force PALACE Acquire Program
Are you a recent graduate or student looking to bridge the gap between academic theory and real-world application? The Department of the Air Force offers an unparalleled opportunity through the PALACE Acquire Program. Based at the historic Lackland AFB in Texas, this program is designed to cultivate the next generation of technical experts in computer science.
Job Responsibilities
As a Computer Scientist intern, you will move through a progressive training plan:
- GG-07 Level: You will assist senior staff with routine system evaluations, participate in software development projects, and gain foundational knowledge in acquisition strategies.
- GG-09 Level: You will take on more responsibility, applying modeling and simulation techniques to projects, assisting in testing and evaluation, and carrying out specific assignments to support higher-level technical solutions.
Responsibility Comparison
| Feature | GG-07 Level | GG-09 Level |
|---|---|---|
| Complexity | Routine/Assistance | Intermediate/Application |
| Focus | Learning Methodologies | Assisting Senior Scientists |
| Autonomy | Supervised | Increased technical input |
Requirements
To qualify for this position, you must demonstrate strong academic performance or relevant specialized education. Specifically, you need a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or a degree with at least 30 semester hours in math, statistics, and computer science. Of these, at least 15 semester hours must be in calculus-based math or statistics.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $81,901 to $129,717 per year, depending on qualifications and performance progression throughout the training program.
Benefits
Working for the Air Force provides more than just a paycheck. Benefits include:
- Comprehensive Health: High-quality health insurance options.
- Retirement: Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Work-Life Balance: Generous federal leave policies.
- Career Growth: A permanent placement guarantee upon successful completion of the 3-year plan.
Application Tips
- Resume Format: Keep it under two pages. Federal hiring is strict regarding this constraint.
- Clarity: Ensure every job entry lists hours worked per week and specific dates.
- Documents: Upload transcripts early to ensure they clear the system before the deadline.
If you are ready to apply your technical skills in a challenging, mission-critical environment, the PALACE Acquire Program is your gateway to success. Apply today to secure your future with the Department of the Air Force.
Why This Computer Scientist Job Matters
Launch your technical career with the United States Air Force! Join the PALACE Acquire Program and gain hands-on experience as a Computer Scientist at Lackland AFB.
Computer Scientist Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking motivated individuals for the PALACE Acquire Program. This 3-year formal training initiative is designed to transition recent graduates into permanent professional roles. You will work on sophisticated computer science projects while building a stable career in federal service. If you are passionate about cybersecurity, malware analysis, and network infrastructure, this position offers a unique pathway to growth in a mission-critical environment.
Requirements for Computer Scientist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related degree with at least 30 semester hours in math, statistics, and computer science.
- At least 15 semester hours in statistics and calculus-based mathematics.
- Recent graduate (within the last 2 years) or current post-secondary student.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Submission of academic transcripts.
Preferred Qualifications for Computer Scientist
- Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 2.95+ overall or 3.45+ in major field).
- Familiarity with network routing and TCP/IP protocols.
- Practical experience with Linux and Virtual Machine environments for security research.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual increases
- ✓Structured 3-year career development training plan
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including TSP (401k equivalent)
- ✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and mentorship
💡 How to Apply Computer Scientist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Computer Scientist Job
- Log in to the official Air Force HireVue recruitment portal.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload a resume (strictly limited to two pages).
- Attach official academic transcripts.
- Submit all materials before the closing date of September 30, 2027.
- Monitor your status through your USAJOBS profile.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes total hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Keep your resume concise; any document exceeding two pages will be disqualified.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents include your full name.
- Clearly link your academic background to the math/CS semester hour requirements.
- Be prepared for behavioral and technical assessments via the HireVue platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PALACE Acquire Program?
It is a 3-year internship program that provides formal training and mentorship, leading to a permanent position within the Air Force upon successful completion.
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, this role requires a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance, which will be initiated after a job offer is made.
Can I apply if I have not yet graduated?
Yes, current post-secondary students who have completed at least one year of their program are eligible to apply.
What is the security clearance requirement?
*A: Candidates must qualify for a Sensitive Compartmented Information clearance.*
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: Please review the announcement details regarding PCS moves, as regulations regarding taxability of moving expenses have changed.*
Job from Air Force Civilian Career Training
The mission of the U.S. Air Force is to fly, fight, and win in air, space, and cyberspace. To support this, the Air Force Civilian Service focuses on developing professional Airmen. The PALACE Acquire program is a key component of this effort, providing interns with a clear, structured path toward a permanent, full-time career in federal service.