Elevate Your Career: Program Manager Opportunity with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (GS-15)

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is actively seeking a highly skilled and experienced Program Manager to join the Office of Trade (OT), Trade Transformation Office (TTO) in a GS-15 capacity. This pivotal role offers a competitive salary range of $169,279 - $197,200 and the chance to significantly impact national security and international trade operations. Located in dynamic hubs like Washington, D.C., New York, N.Y., or Ashburn, Virginia, this position is for individuals passionate about leadership, strategic coordination, and the integration of complex automated systems. If you possess a strong background in program management and a commitment to public service, this is an exceptional opportunity to advance your federal career.

About U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) stands as the unified voice of U.S. border management, safeguarding America's borders from threats while fostering legitimate international trade and travel. As a premier law enforcement agency within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), CBP's mission is critical to national security and economic prosperity. Their dedicated workforce, spanning hundreds of occupations, works tirelessly to enforce hundreds of U.S. regulations, including immigration and drug laws. CBP professionals screen passengers, vehicles, and shipments entering the country, seize illegal contraband, and prevent unauthorized entries. With core values of Vigilance, Service to Country, and Integrity, CBP employees embody the highest commitment to protecting the United States.

Job Responsibilities: Driving Trade Transformation

As a Program Manager within the Office of Trade's Trade Transformation Office (TTO), Client Services Division, you will serve as a key leader responsible for driving critical initiatives and ensuring the efficient operation of automated trade systems. Your responsibilities will include:

Strategic Program Leadership: Supporting senior leadership by planning, evaluating, integrating, and coordinating major program initiatives, staff actions, policy development, and operational priorities across various organizational components. This involves ensuring all activities align with established timelines, milestones, and resource parameters.
System Integration and Problem Resolution: Tackling complex system integration and implementation challenges. You will analyze program requirements, identify operational gaps, collaborate with stakeholders, and recommend necessary modifications to systems or processes to achieve measurable program objectives.
Automated Systems Oversight: Ensuring that automated system initiatives are seamlessly integrated with broader import, export, cargo processing, and other operational business processes. This includes mapping requirements, validating dependencies, coordinating deployment activities, and supporting effective program execution.
User Support and Liaison: Providing essential support to users of automated systems. You will identify, document, escalate, and coordinate the resolution of complex system issues affecting internal users, external stakeholders, program offices, and operational business processes.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Acting as a critical liaison between technical teams, program offices, senior officials, and system users. This involves coordinating software deployments, addressing implementation challenges, managing procedural changes, and effectively communicating priorities across diverse, cross-functional teams.
Representing CBP: Representing CBP at industry conferences, local port association meetings, and other public forums to discuss international trade and customs automated systems. You will also develop and present updates on new and existing trade systems functionality to various stakeholders.

Requirements: Qualifications for Success

To be considered for this Program Manager position, applicants must meet the following essential requirements:

U.S. Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
Selective Service Registration: Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Residency: Primary U.S. residency for at least three of the last five years is required. Exceptions may apply for individuals working for the U.S. Government abroad, accompanying military or civilian personnel, or participating in approved study abroad or U.S. government-supported programs.
Language Proficiency: All pre-employment processes and the position itself require English proficiency.
Background Investigation: A thorough background investigation is mandatory for all applicants.
Drug-Free Workplace: Adherence to the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan and associated drug testing procedures is required.
Ethics and Conduct: All employees must uphold government ethics standards and may require approval for outside employment or business activities that could conflict with official duties.
Financial Disclosure: A financial disclosure statement is required for this position.
Time in Grade: Current federal employees must have completed at least 52 weeks of service at the next lower grade (or equivalent) by October 30, 2026.

Specialized Experience (Minimum Qualifications)

Applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the next lower grade level (e.g., GS-14) in the federal service. This experience must demonstrate your ability to:

Support senior leadership in planning, evaluating, integrating, and coordinating major program initiatives, staff actions, and operational priorities within defined parameters.
Resolve complex system integration issues by analyzing requirements, identifying gaps, and recommending solutions.
Ensure automated systems integrate effectively with import/export and cargo processing business processes.
Provide user support for automated systems, escalating and coordinating resolution of issues.
Serve as a liaison between technical teams, program offices, senior officials, and system users.

Your resume must explicitly detail how you meet these requirements.

Salary Overview: GS-15 Compensation

This Program Manager position is classified at the GS-15 grade level. The annual salary for this role ranges from $169,279 (GS-15, Step 1) to $197,200 (GS-15, Step 10). This salary range is subject to locality pay adjustments. Applicants are encouraged to review the official OPM locality pay tables to determine the specific pay rate for their geographic area. Some positions may also fall under special pay rates depending on the series, grade, and location.

Benefits: Comprehensive Federal Package

U.S. Customs and Border Protection offers a robust benefits package designed to support the well-being and professional growth of its employees. This includes:

Health Insurance: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Life Insurance: Federal employee life insurance options.
Retirement: A traditional federal pension plan plus a Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), which functions similarly to a 401(k) for additional retirement savings.
Leave: Generous accrual of personal leave days and paid federal holidays.
Work-Life Balance: Potential for flexible work schedules and an Employee Assistance Program.
Financial Wellness: Flexible Spending Accounts for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Professional Development: Significant opportunities for training, development, and tuition reimbursement.
Additional Perks: May include transportation subsidies, uniform allowances, health and wellness programs, and access to fitness centers.
Veteran Benefits: Disabled veteran leave is available for eligible veterans hired after November 5, 2016.

Application Process: Your Path to CBP

Applying for this critical role involves several key steps:

Review Announcement: Carefully read the entire job announcement and all instructions.
Apply Online: Click the "Apply Online" button on USAJOBS.
Complete Questionnaire: Answer all questions in the application questionnaire accurately and completely.
Submit Documentation: Attach all required documents, including a detailed resume (two pages or less, preferably PDF format) and any necessary federal employment documentation (e.g., SF-50s).
Submit Application: Ensure your complete application package is submitted by the deadline: October 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
Online Assessments: Following submission, you will likely receive instructions via email to complete online assessments through the USA Hire system. Complete these assessments within the specified timeframe (typically 48 hours after the announcement closes).
Track Status: Monitor your application status through your USAJOBS account.

Application Tips for Success

Detail Your Resume: Be thorough in describing your duties and accomplishments, ensuring they directly align with the specialized experience required. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.
Accuracy is Key: Avoid overstating your qualifications. Provide truthful and accurate information throughout your application.
Document Submission: Ensure all required documents are uploaded correctly and in the specified format. For federal employees, the SF-50 is crucial for verifying experience and grade levels.
Meet Deadlines: Punctuality is essential. Late submissions will not be considered.
Federal Employees: If you are a current or former federal employee, provide the most recent SF-50 showing competitive status and time-in-grade. Additional SF-50s may be needed to document experience outside of CBP.
CTAP/ICTAP Applicants: Submit all required documentation, including performance appraisals and separation notices, for priority consideration.
Monitor Your Account: Regularly check your USAJOBS account and email for updates, including assessment invitations and status changes.
Reasonable Accommodations: If you require a reasonable accommodation for the assessments, request it in advance according to the instructions provided.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Question	Answer
What is the salary for this position?	The annual salary ranges from $169,279 to $197,200, subject to locality pay adjustments.
Where are the duty locations for this role?	The position is advertised for multiple locations: Washington, D.C., New York, N.Y., and Ashburn, Virginia. Other divisions within these locations may also make selections.
What are the main responsibilities of a Program Manager here?	Key duties include leading program initiatives, resolving system integration issues, overseeing automated systems, providing user support, and acting as a liaison between technical teams and stakeholders.
What specific experience is needed?	One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-14 level is required. This includes experience in program coordination, system integration problem-solving, ensuring system alignment with business processes, and user support for complex systems.
Are online assessments required?	Yes, applicants must complete online assessments via the USA Hire system. Instructions and links will be provided after application submission.
What documents must I submit?	You need to submit your resume, responses to the job questionnaire, and any supporting documents like SF-50s (for federal employees) or CTAP documentation.
What is the application deadline?	The application closes on October 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time. Ensure all materials are submitted by this time.
Can I work remotely in this position?	This position is not listed as telework or remote eligible. The duty locations are specified as Washington, D.C., New York, N.Y., and Ashburn, Virginia.
What are the benefits offered?	CBP offers a comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, life insurance, retirement plans (pension and TSP), generous leave, and professional development opportunities.
What is the residency requirement?	Applicants generally need to have physically resided in the United States or its protectorates for at least three of the last five years. Exceptions may apply for U.S. government employees and their dependents working abroad or for participants in study abroad programs.

This Program Manager role at U.S. Customs and Border Protection represents a significant opportunity for experienced professionals to contribute to vital national security and trade facilitation missions. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and the chance to lead impactful initiatives, this GS-15 position offers a rewarding career path within a prestigious federal agency. If you are ready to take on a leadership challenge and make a tangible difference, we encourage you to apply.

Why This Program Manager Job Matters

Unlock a pivotal leadership role at the forefront of national security and trade facilitation. U.S. Customs and Border Protection is seeking an exceptional Program Manager to drive critical initiatives and shape the future of international trade operations. If you have a proven track record in program coordination, system integration, and stakeholder engagement, this is your opportunity to make a significant impact.

Program Manager Job Overview

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Office of Trade, is actively recruiting for a Program Manager. This senior-level position, located within the Trade Transformation Office (TTO) Client Services Division, offers the chance to lead and coordinate significant program initiatives. You will play a crucial role in enhancing automated systems, ensuring seamless integration with trade processes, and providing essential user support. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to national security by safeguarding America's borders and facilitating legitimate international trade.

Requirements for Program Manager

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Males born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service.
Must have resided in the U.S. or its protectorates for at least three of the last five years (exceptions may apply).
All pre-employment processes will be conducted in English.
Must be able to pass a background investigation.
Must adhere to the DHS Drug-Free Workplace Plan and associated drug testing procedures.
Must comply with all applicable government ethics standards and regulations.
Financial disclosure is required.
Must meet Time in Grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade level or equivalent) by October 30, 2026.
Federal employees must possess competitive status (Tenure 1 or 2) and provide relevant SF-50 forms.
CTAP/ICTAP eligibles must submit required documentation for priority consideration.

Preferred Qualifications for Program Manager

1 year of specialized experience equivalent to at least the GS-14 grade level.
Experience supporting senior leadership by planning, evaluating, integrating, and coordinating major program initiatives, staff actions, policy activities, and operational priorities across organizational components within established timelines, milestones, and resource parameters.
Experience resolving complex system integration and implementation issues by analyzing program requirements, identifying operational gaps, coordinating stakeholder input, and recommending system or process modifications aligned with measurable program objectives.
Experience assuring integration of automated system initiatives with broader import, export, cargo processing, or operational business processes by mapping requirements, validating dependencies, coordinating deployment activities, and supporting effective program execution.
Experience providing automated system user support by identifying, documenting, escalating, and coordinating resolution of complex system issues affecting internal users, external stakeholders, program offices, and operational business processes.
Experience serving as a liaison with technical teams, program offices, senior officials, and system users by coordinating software deployments, addressing implementation challenges, managing procedural changes, and communicating priorities across cross-functional stakeholders.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive salary range from $169,279 to $197,200 per year.
✓Health, dental, and vision insurance.
✓Life insurance.
✓Long-term care insurance.
✓Retirement plan.
✓Thrift Savings Plan (similar to a 401(k)).
✓Flexible Spending Account.
✓Employee Assistance Program.
✓Generous personal leave days.
✓Paid federal holidays.
✓Potential for flexible work schedules.
✓Tuition reimbursement opportunities.
✓Transportation subsidies.
✓Uniform allowance may be provided.
✓Health and wellness programs.
✓Access to fitness centers.
✓Extensive employee development and training opportunities.
✓Disabled veteran leave is available for eligible veterans.

💡 How to Apply Program Manager Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Program Manager Job

Thoroughly review the entire announcement and all instructions.
Click the 'Apply Online' button.
Complete the application questionnaire accurately.
Attach all necessary supporting documentation (e.g., resume, SF-50s if applicable). Ensure your resume is two pages or less and uploaded as a PDF.
Submit your complete application package by 11:59 PM ET on October 30, 2026.
After submission, you may receive an email notification to complete online assessments via the USA Hire system. Follow the provided link and deadline.
If required, complete the online assessments within the specified timeframe (typically 48 hours after the announcement closes).
Track your application status through your USAJOBS account.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume is detailed and explicitly addresses the specialized experience requirements. Quantify achievements where possible.
Do not overstate your qualifications, as this may lead to disqualification.
Upload required documents as specified. Ensure your resume is in PDF format and not password-protected.
Pay close attention to deadlines. All submissions must be completed by 11:59 PM ET on October 30, 2026.
If you are a current or former federal employee, submit the most recent SF-50 that demonstrates your competitive status and time-in-grade.
For CTAP eligibles, ensure all required separation and performance documentation is included.
Utilize the 'Track this application' feature in USAJOBS to monitor your progress and assessment status.
Request reasonable accommodations for assessments well in advance if needed, following the provided procedures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the salary range for this Program Manager position?

The annual salary range for this position is $169,279 to $197,200.

Where is this position located?

This position is advertised with multiple location options, including Washington, D.C., New York, New York, and Ashburn, Virginia. Additional selections may be made in other organizational divisions within these duty locations.

What are the primary duties of this role?

The Program Manager will support senior leadership by planning, evaluating, and coordinating major program initiatives, resolving complex system integration issues, ensuring automated systems align with business processes, and acting as a liaison between technical teams, stakeholders, and users.

What kind of experience is required for this position?

You need one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (e.g., GS-14). This includes experience in program initiative coordination, resolving system integration issues, integrating automated systems with business processes, and providing user support for complex systems.

Do I need to complete online assessments?

Yes, applicants are required to complete online assessments through the USA Hire system. You will receive instructions and a link after submitting your application.

What documentation do I need to submit?

You must submit your resume, your responses to the job questionnaire, and any required supporting documents, such as SF-50s if you are a current or former federal employee, or documentation for CTAP eligibility.

How long do I have to apply?

The application deadline is October 30, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.

Program Manager Job

Customs And Border Protection