Become a Key Strategic Leader: Program Analyst at the Pentagon

Are you looking to advance your career at the heart of national defense? The Department of the Navy (DON) is currently hiring for a Program Analyst (GS-14) to join the Immediate Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV). This is a unique opportunity to work within the Expeditionary Warfare Division and play a direct role in the planning, programming, and budgeting that sustains the U.S. Navy’s global capabilities.

Job Responsibilities

As a Program Analyst, your daily contributions will be essential to mission success. Your responsibilities include:

Requirements Management: Acting as a subject matter expert for assigned portfolios within the Expeditionary Combat Branch.
Acquisition Leadership: Leading the development and execution of long-term acquisition strategies.
Process Improvement: Conducting management studies on broad and complex programs to identify efficiencies and enhance readiness.
Strategic Liaison: Building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders across the Joint Staff, OPNAV, and execution agencies.

Requirements

To be considered for this prestigious role, you must meet the following criteria:

Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the GS-13 level.
Subject Expertise: Deep knowledge of Navy PPBE processes and requirements development.
Communication: Superior verbal and written communication skills to influence decision-makers.
Security: Ability to maintain a Secret security clearance.

Salary Overview

This position is classified at the GS-14 grade level. The salary range for this role is as follows:

Pay Interval	Minimum Salary	Maximum Salary
Per Year	$143,913	$187,093

Benefits

Working for the Department of the Navy comes with a robust federal employment package, including:

Health and Wellness: A wide array of health insurance plans.
Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) with a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) match.
Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave, plus 11 paid federal holidays.
Professional Growth: Access to world-class training and career development programs.

Application Tips

Given the high volume of applications for roles at the Pentagon, following these tips is critical to success:

Respect the Page Limit: Resumes must be no longer than 2 pages. If it is longer, your application may be rejected immediately.
Detail Your History: Clearly define your start/end dates, hours per week, and grade level for all relevant past federal positions.
Focus on Accomplishments: Use your limited space to highlight outcomes, not just tasks. Explain how your work improved readiness or saved resources.
Complete Assessments Promptly: If invited to complete the USA Hire assessments, do not delay. You generally have a 48-hour window.

If you have the experience and the drive to shape the future of Navy capabilities, we encourage you to apply. This role offers the opportunity to make a tangible difference in national security while enjoying the stability and benefits of a high-level federal position. Submit your application through USAJOBS before the deadline.

Why This Program Analyst Job Matters

Shape the future of naval readiness as a Program Analyst at the Pentagon. Join the Immediate Office of the Chief of Naval Operations and drive critical warfighting capabilities.

Program Analyst Job Overview

The Department of the Navy is seeking a strategic-minded Program Analyst to join the Expeditionary Warfare Division within the Office of the Chief of Naval Operations (OPNAV). Based at the Pentagon, this role is pivotal in managing acquisition strategies, resource requirements, and organizational coordination to ensure the Navy maintains its operational edge. You will operate at the intersection of planning, programming, budgeting, and execution (PPBE), serving as a key liaison for warfighting capability and force modernization.

Requirements for Program Analyst

Must have at least one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS-13 grade level.
Mastery of advanced principles and practices regarding Navy requirements development processes.
Comprehensive knowledge of Navy Planning, Programming, Budgeting, and Execution (PPBE).
Deep understanding of Department of the Navy, Joint Staff, and OPNAV organizational structures.
Demonstrated ability to manage acquisition strategies, lead problem-solving efforts, and foster stakeholder relationships.
Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Analyst

Proven track record in managing resource requirements for complex warfighting programs.
Strong proficiency in conducting broad-scope management studies to improve organizational processes.
Demonstrated ability to influence and negotiate with senior stakeholders across multiple military commands.
Advanced skills in written and oral communication for high-level briefings and reports.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary structure
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Retirement plans including the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
✓Paid vacation, federal holidays, and sick leave
✓Access to federal professional development and training programs
✓Telework eligibility

💡 How to Apply Program Analyst Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Analyst Job

Create a USAJOBS account and build your federal resume.
Prepare a resume that is strictly limited to 2 pages.
Click the 'Apply Online' button on the USAJOBS listing.
Complete the mandatory questionnaires and attach all required documentation.
Submit your application package before 11:59 PM (ET) on the closing date.
Check your email for notification regarding mandatory USA Hire assessments.
Complete all assessments within 48 hours of notification.

💡 General Tips

Be concise: Your resume must not exceed 2 pages, or it will be disqualified.
Be specific: Clearly list your pay plan, series, and grade for all federal experience to prove time-in-grade eligibility.
Check your documents: Include all relevant SF-50s if you are a current federal employee or applying for a promotion.
Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder: This ensures you capture all required data points like hours per week and employment dates.
Monitor your status: Log in to your USAJOBS account periodically to track your application and assessment status.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of this role?

You will act as a requirements manager and resource officer within the Expeditionary Combat Branch, overseeing acquisition strategies and ensuring resource availability for critical Navy programs.

Is a security clearance required?

Yes, this position requires a Secret security clearance.

Are there remote work options?

The position is telework eligible, but it is not a fully remote position. It requires presence at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia.

Can I apply if I am not currently a federal employee?

*A: Yes, the announcement includes multiple hiring paths, including special authorities and military spouses. Check the 'Who May Apply' section on USAJOBS for your specific eligibility.*

What is the work schedule like?

*A: This position may require an uncommon tour of duty, including occasional nights, weekends, or holidays depending on mission requirements.*

Job from Immediate Office Of The Chief Of Naval Operations

The Immediate Office of the Chief of Naval Operations provides the vision and strategic direction for the entire Navy and Marine Corps team. Working here means collaborating with elite military and civilian professionals dedicated to maintaining maritime superiority. The DON is committed to fostering innovation, offering competitive federal benefits, and providing a clear pathway for professional growth.