Become a Program Manager with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is currently seeking a highly skilled and strategic Program Manager to join their prestigious Built Infrastructure Division. Located in Washington, D.C., this role offers a unique opportunity to oversee some of the most critical military design and construction programs in the nation. If you are a seasoned leader with a background in capital investment and stakeholder management, this is your chance to contribute to the nation's national security and economic infrastructure.
Job Responsibilities
As a National Program Manager, you will be responsible for integrating engineering, financial, environmental, and contractual facets of USACE Military Construction (MILCON). Key responsibilities include:
- Serving as the subject matter expert on the Army MILCON process.
- Analyzing performance data to identify risks and progress against objectives.
- Acting as the principal advisor to senior managers and congressional stakeholders.
- Directing USACE districts on project designs, solicitations, and awards.
- Managing congressional reporting, cost approvals, and appropriation extensions.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Requirement | Standard | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Grade Level | GS-15 | Senior Leadership |
| Experience | 1 Year at GS-14 | High-level Proficiency |
| Security | Top Secret | High-Risk Access |
| Education | Not Substitutable | Experience Only |
Requirements
To be considered for this GS-15 position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet specific federal employment authorities. A core requirement is one year of specialized experience at the GS-14 grade level, focusing on large-scale infrastructure programs and enterprise-wide policy development. All applicants must also adhere to Time-in-Grade requirements.
Salary Overview
The compensation for this position ranges from $169,279 to $197,200 per year, reflecting the senior nature of the work. This salary includes applicable locality pay and market supplements.
Benefits
Employees of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health and life insurance coverage.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government contributions.
- Paid leave and federal holiday schedule.
Application Tips
Your application package is the first impression you make. Ensure your resume is exactly two pages or less to avoid automatic removal. Use plain language to describe your accomplishments, and always provide clear start and end dates (month/year) for your work history. Double-check that your SF-50 correctly verifies your Time-in-Grade eligibility.
This role is an exceptional opportunity to influence the direction of military construction in the United States. If you possess the leadership and technical acumen required, apply through the USAJOBS portal before the October 2026 deadline.
Why This Program Manager Job Matters
Lead the future of national infrastructure with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We are seeking a senior Program Manager to oversee critical military construction initiatives in the heart of Washington, D.C.
Program Manager Job Overview
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is hiring a Program Manager to join the Built Infrastructure Division at Headquarters in Washington, D.C. This senior-level role focuses on managing complex military construction (MILCON) programs. You will serve as the primary advisor for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring that vital design and construction projects are executed effectively, align with national security priorities, and meet congressional requirements.
Requirements for Program Manager
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 grade level
- Must meet Time-in-Grade requirements (52 weeks at GS-14)
- Must be eligible under one of the specific hiring authorities (e.g., current federal employee, veteran, military spouse)
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret security clearance
- Must complete a 1-year probationary period
Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager
- Expertise in managing large-scale, multi-stakeholder military construction programs
- Proven experience analyzing program performance data to mitigate execution risks
- Demonstrated ability to develop enterprise-wide policy and guidance
- Proficiency in briefing and advising senior leadership on complex capital investments
- Strong background in federal procurement, environmental, and real estate coordination
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with locality pay
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement pension plan (FERS)
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style investment account)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and generous leave accrual
- ✓Telework eligibility
💡 How to Apply Program Manager Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Program Manager Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the list of eligible hiring authorities to ensure you qualify.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Draft responses to the online questionnaire.
- Gather supporting documents such as SF-50s, performance appraisals, and proof of eligibility.
- Submit your complete application package via the official portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your status through the USAJOBS dashboard.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages; documents exceeding this limit will be disqualified.
- Avoid acronyms; ensure your experience descriptions are in plain language.
- Explicitly detail your role, employer, and hours worked per week for each position.
- Submit your application early to account for potential system delays or virus scans.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates your current grade level to meet Time-in-Grade requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute my education for the experience requirement?
No. For this position, applicants must meet the qualification requirements through experience alone; education cannot be substituted.
Is this position eligible for telework?
Yes, this position is eligible for telework based on agency policy.
What level of security clearance is required?
This role requires a Top Secret security clearance and is classified as Special-Sensitive/High Risk.
What is the security clearance for this job?
*A: This position requires a Top Secret clearance due to the sensitivity of the infrastructure projects involved.*
Can I apply if I am not a federal employee?
*A: This vacancy is open to those who meet specific hiring authorities, such as military spouses, veterans, and current federal employees. Review the 'Who May Apply' section carefully.*
Job from U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is consistently ranked among the best places to work in the federal government. As a premier public engineering, design, and construction management agency, USACE delivers vital engineering solutions to the nation's most complex challenges. By joining USACE, you become part of a collaborative, high-performing team dedicated to the safety and prosperity of the American people.