Leading the Future of Federal Grants: Director for Grants Policy Office

The U.S. Department of Education is currently seeking an accomplished executive to serve as the Director for the Grants Policy Office. This critical role, based in Washington, D.C., offers a unique opportunity to influence how federal funds are distributed, monitored, and evaluated across the nation. For seasoned leaders with a background in policy development and organizational strategy, this position provides a platform to make a lasting impact on the American education system.

Job Responsibilities

The Director acts as the principal authority on grants policy, providing leadership that spans from program design to final evaluation. Core duties include:

Developing and interpreting Department-wide grants policies and regulations.
Advising senior leadership on complex or precedent-setting policy matters.
Streamlining grant competition and award processes to enhance the applicant experience.
Integrating evidence-based practices into grant programs to ensure measurable results.
Leading analytical teams to align grant mechanisms with the Secretary's strategic policy priorities.

Requirements

To be considered for this high-level role, candidates must demonstrate executive-level proficiency. Requirements include:

U.S. Citizenship.
Ability to secure a Public Trust security clearance.
A two-page resume addressing the five mandatory Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) and the required Technical Qualification (TQ).
Financial disclosure compliance (OGE-278).

Executive Core Qualifications Overview

Qualification Area	Focus
Rule of Law	Commitment to the American system and Constitution
Driving Efficiency	Managing budgets and technological upgrades
Merit and Competence	Producing exceptional work quality
Leading People	Driving a culture of accountability
Achieving Results	Meeting organizational and leadership goals

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary ranging from $151,661 to $228,000 per year, commensurate with the responsibilities of a Senior Executive Service (SES) role.

Benefits

Employees of the U.S. federal government enjoy a robust benefits package, including:

Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
A Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with employer matching.
Generous paid annual and sick leave.
Flexible work environments to support work-life balance.

Application Tips

Respect the Limit: Your resume must be two pages or less. Use 10-point font or larger.
Integrate Qualifications: Do not use attachments for your ECQs; incorporate them directly into your resume narrative.
Quantify Results: When describing your experience, focus on metrics and specific leadership outcomes.
Update SF-50s: If you are a current or former federal employee, ensure your SF-50 documents clearly reflect your tenure and grade.

This role is designed for a dedicated leader ready to navigate complex policy landscapes. If you possess the executive experience and the drive to improve federal grant stewardship, we encourage you to submit your application to join the team at the Department of Education.

Why This Director For Grants Policy Office Job Matters

Shape the future of American education by leading the national strategy for grants policy at the U.S. Department of Education.

Director For Grants Policy Office Job Overview

The Department of Education is seeking a visionary leader to serve as the Director for the Grants Policy Office within the Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development (OPEPD). This executive-level role is pivotal in guiding the Department’s grant-making strategy, ensuring that federal funds are managed with the highest level of accountability, efficiency, and alignment with national policy goals.

Requirements for Director For Grants Policy Office

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Public Trust security clearance.
Submit a resume not exceeding two pages, with a font size of 10 points or larger.
Demonstrated evidence of five Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) must be included within the resume.
Technical Qualification (TQ) 1 must be addressed within the two-page resume.
Submission of a financial disclosure statement (OGE-278).
Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12-31-1959.
Completion of a one-year probationary period unless otherwise excepted.

Preferred Qualifications for Director For Grants Policy Office

Certification by OPM's SES Qualifications Review Board (QRB).
Current or previous career status in the Senior Executive Service (SES).
Successful completion of an OPM-approved SES Candidate Development Program (SESCDP).
Recent performance appraisal documentation.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive health insurance plans for employees and families.
✓Federal retirement benefits and pension plans.
✓Generous paid leave and federal holiday schedule.
✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
✓Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
✓Flexible work arrangements including potential telework options.

💡 How to Apply Director For Grants Policy Office Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Director For Grants Policy Office Job

Ensure your resume is limited to exactly two pages and addresses all ECQs and TQs.
Apply via the official USAJobs application portal.
Upload required SF-50 forms if you are a current or former federal employee.
Complete the online vacancy questionnaire.
Submit all documentation before the closing date of November 4, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Focus your resume strictly on the two-page limit; content beyond page two will not be reviewed.
Use specific examples in your resume to demonstrate how you meet the ECQs and TQs.
For federal employees, ensure your SF-50 clearly shows your tenure and current grade.
Do not submit separate narrative documents for your qualifications; embed them into the resume.
Double-check that all contact information and current pay plan details are accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I submit a separate document for my Executive Core Qualifications?

No. All ECQs and TQs must be clearly addressed within your two-page resume. Separate narratives are not accepted.

What is the salary range for this position?

The salary ranges from $151,661 to $228,000 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.

Is relocation assistance provided?

No, relocation expenses will not be paid for this position.

What is the application deadline?

The closing date for this vacancy is November 4, 2026.

Is there a degree requirement?

There is no specific education qualification requirement for this position; however, experience is paramount.

Job from Office Of Planning, Evaluation And Policy Development

The Office of Planning, Evaluation and Policy Development (OPEPD) serves as the strategic heart of the Department of Education. It manages the coordination of policy development and implementation, ensuring that all initiatives remain aligned with the Secretary’s priorities. By overseeing the Grants Policy Office, the selected incumbent will play a vital role in maintaining the integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness of the Department’s vast grant portfolio.