Launch Your Career: Archivist Internships with the U.S. Air Force
Are you a recent graduate with a passion for history and records management? The Department of the Air Force offers an unparalleled opportunity to jumpstart your professional life through the PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ) program. This internship is designed to mold the next generation of civilian professionals through rigorous training, mentorship, and real-world experience.
Job Responsibilities
As an intern, you will engage in diverse developmental assignments, including:
- Conducting archival appraisals of historical documents.
- Assisting staff and researchers in navigating historical collections.
- Developing finding aids to improve document accessibility.
- Implementing preservation techniques to protect fragile records.
Requirements
To be eligible, you must be a recent graduate with a Bachelor's degree in History or a related field (with 18+ semester hours in history). Applicants must provide official transcripts and show proof of Superior Academic Achievement.
Comparison Table: Internship Tiers
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Type | PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ) |
| Duration | 2-Year Formal Plan |
| Salary Range | $50,460 - $77,460 |
| Promotion Potential | Up to GS-11 |
| Security Level | Top Secret |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive starting salary ranging from $50,460 to $77,460 annually, with a clear trajectory for increases based on successful performance reviews throughout the two-year training program.
Benefits
Beyond the salary, interns enjoy federal benefits, including robust healthcare options, retirement savings plans, and the satisfaction of contributing to a mission-critical agency.
Application Tips
- Resume Precision: Ensure your resume lists hours per week and specific dates of employment. Missing these will disqualify your application.
- Complete Assessments: Do not skip the HireVue assessment; it is a mandatory gateway for your application to proceed.
- Upload Early: Allow time for your documents to clear virus scans in the application portal.
Serving as an Archivist for the Air Force is more than a job; it is a career-defining experience. If you meet the criteria, apply today to build a future grounded in service and excellence.
Why This Archivist Job Matters
Launch your career as an Archivist with the Department of the Air Force and preserve the legacy of national security through the prestigious PALACE ACQUIRE program.
Archivist Job Overview
The Department of the Air Force is seeking motivated Recent Graduates to join our team as Archivists under the PALACE ACQUIRE (PAQ) Internship program. This unique opportunity provides a structured, two-year developmental path within the civilian service. As an intern, you will contribute to the preservation of vital historical records while receiving professional training, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement. This role is centrally managed by the Air Force Personnel Center and offers a pathway to a permanent civilian career, combining academic background with practical experience in a high-stakes environment.
Requirements for Archivist
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Must be a recent graduate who completed a qualifying degree within the previous two years or by August 1, 2024.
- Bachelor's degree in History or a related field with at least 18 semester hours in history.
- Documentation of Superior Academic Achievement (GPA 2.95+, class standing, or honor society membership).
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance.
- Submission of a complete application package, including transcripts, via the online portal.
- Completion of the HireVue online assessment.
Preferred Qualifications for Archivist
- Proven interest in archival science and historical records management.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Experience in assisting researchers or managing historical document collections.
- Clear, effective written and oral communication skills.
- Capability to adapt to changing environments and complex problem-solving scenarios.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Formal two-year training and development plan.
- ✓Yearly salary increases based on performance.
- ✓Defined career advancement and promotion potential.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Structured professional mentorship and guidance.
💡 How to Apply Archivist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Archivist Job
- Visit the provided application portal to create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your resume, ensuring it details hours worked per week and specific dates of employment.
- Upload all required transcripts and proof of academic achievement.
- Complete the mandatory HireVue assessment to evaluate core competencies.
- Verify that all documents are uploaded and clear the system's virus scan prior to the deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume does not exceed two pages; HR will not review additional material.
- Clearly state hours worked per week for all positions to ensure your application isn't marked as insufficient.
- Double-check that your transcripts clearly demonstrate the required 18 semester hours in history.
- Use the 'Apply Now' button on the official career site to reach the HireVue portal, which is a required step.
- Verify your submission status in the USAJOBS portal after applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PALACE ACQUIRE program?
It is a centrally managed, two-year internship program within the Air Force designed to transition recent graduates into permanent civilian roles through formal training and professional development.
Can I apply if I haven't graduated yet?
Yes, if you will complete all requirements for your degree by August 1, 2024, you meet the eligibility criteria for the Recent Graduate program.
Do I need a security clearance?
Yes, this position requires a Top Secret security clearance, so you must be able to meet the associated suitability and fitness requirements.
Is relocation covered?
*A: No, relocation benefits are not provided for this specific announcement.*
What happens after the two years?
*A: The program is designed to move you into a permanent, full-time position upon successful completion of your training plan.*
Job from Air Force Civilian Career Training
The United States Air Force is committed to global vigilance, reach, and power. Civilian employees are the backbone of this mission, providing the expertise and continuity necessary to support our airmen. As an Archivist within this organization, you become a custodian of the historical narrative that defines our service.