Navigating Your Career as a USACE Program Analyst in Texas

Are you seeking a high-impact administrative and financial role within the federal government? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Southwestern Division, Fort Worth District, is currently recruiting for a Program Analyst (GS-0343-09/11). Positioned within the Operations Division, this position offers a rewarding civil service pathway in East Texas, serving key locations including Jasper, Jefferson, Texarkana, and Woodville.

With a salary range spanning $61,722 to $97,087 annually, this opportunity combines robust compensation with the stability and comprehensive benefits of federal employment. Whether you are an experienced budget administrator or an advanced degree holder looking to enter civil service, understanding the requirements and application nuances of this role will significantly elevate your candidate standing.

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About the Agency: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is one of the nation's premier public engineering and construction management institutions. Operating under the Department of the Army, USACE delivers engineering solutions that strengthen national security, revitalize infrastructure, manage water resources, and reduce natural disaster risks across communities.

The Fort Worth District plays an essential role in Southwestern regional water resource management, military construction, and environmental stewardship. Joining the Operations Division means you directly support civil works projects, lake management, infrastructure repairs, and recreational facilities that millions of citizens rely upon daily.

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Job Responsibilities & Core Duties

As a Program Analyst, you will serve as a core financial and management advisor for assigned engineering projects and operational accounts. You will ensure that funds allocated by Congress are expended efficiently, legally, and within designated timelines.

Primary responsibilities include:

• Financial Oversight: Tracking program progress continuously to verify that operational funds are disbursed according to approved schedules and within established manpower ceilings.
• Budget Planning & Allocations: Allocating funds, setting up monthly spending schedules by account features, and recommending fund transfers between project activities when operational shifts occur.
• Program Authorizations: Identifying the need for official program modifications and submitting structured requests for higher headquarters authorization.
• Asset Coding & Database Entry: Utilizing automated systems (such as CEFMS and real property tools) to code assets correctly and record expenditures accurately.
• Stakeholder Reporting: Analyzing operational data and preparing comprehensive briefings and responses for inquiries coming from congressional representatives and community leaders.

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Grade Level Qualification Breakdown

Applicants can qualify for this position through either specialized professional experience or higher education. Below is a direct comparison of the requirements across the GS-09 and GS-11 levels:

Feature / Requirement	GS-09 Grade Level	GS-11 Grade Level
Annual Base Salary	$61,722 - $80,241 (Approx.)	Up to $97,087
Specialized Experience	1 year equivalent to GS-07 involving financial reporting (CEFMS/Excel) and automated project performance monitoring.	1 year equivalent to GS-09 performing budget analysis/estimates, expense monitoring, or management advisory services.
Educational Alternative	Master's degree, LL.B., J.D., or 2 years of progressive graduate education.	Ph.D., LL.M., or 3 years of progressive graduate study.
Time-In-Grade Requirement	52 weeks at GS-07 or equivalent for current/former federal employees.	52 weeks at GS-09 or equivalent for current/former federal employees.
Promotion Potential	Full performance level to GS-11.	Target grade level.

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Key Qualifications & Assessment Competencies

To be considered qualified, your application package must explicitly demonstrate strength in critical administrative competencies. USACE evaluates applicants using both resume scoring and the USA Hire Assessment system.

Core competencies tested include:

• Attention to Detail: Precision in entering cost codes and tracking budget line items.
• Decision Making & Reasoning: Sound judgment in recommending reallocations or identifying funding gaps.
• Communication: Ability to write clean, clear analytical reports for military and civilian leadership.
• Self-Management & Stress Tolerance: Capacity to manage strict federal fiscal year-end deadlines efficiently.

CRITICAL RULE: Candidates must achieve or exceed the established cut score on the USA Hire Assessment to remain eligible. If you score below the cut threshold, your application will be automatically archived.

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Mandatory Resume Formatting Criteria

Federal resume evaluation for this announcement enforces strict formatting restrictions that differ from standard private-sector practices:

1. Two-Page Limit: Your resume must not exceed two pages. Resumes containing three or more pages will be disqualified immediately without review.
2. Detailed Work History: For every job listed, you must clearly include:
   • Official Job Title and Employer Name
   • Exact Start and End Dates (Month/Year)
   • Average Hours Worked Per Week (e.g., 40 hrs/wk)
   • Specific descriptions of duties aligning with the specialized experience requirements
3. Sanitized Content: Do not include personal photographs, sensitive personal identification, or unneeded personal information.

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Comprehensive Federal Benefits Package

As a full-time civilian employee with USACE, you receive access to a industry-leading benefit plan designed to support long-term well-being and retirement security:

• Healthcare Coverage: Choice of broad-network plans under the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program with substantial employer contributions.
• Retirement System: Dual-tier retirement through the FERS annuity pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with immediate up to 5% agency matching.
• Paid Time Off: Earn 13 to 26 days of annual paid leave per year (based on service time), 13 paid sick days, and 11 standard public holidays.
• Flexibility & Mobility: Access to telework options depending on position duties, plus authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS) relocation benefits where applicable.

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Step-by-Step Application Instructions

Follow these guidelines to submit a flawless application package:

1. Verify Merit Eligibility: Review the hiring paths in the announcement (e.g., Current Civilian Employees, Military Spouses, VEOA Veterans, ICTAP eligible) to ensure you meet an approved category.
2. Tailor Your Resume: Trim your professional resume down to 2 pages max, making sure keywords like financial reporting, CEFMS, budget estimation, and asset tracking are highlighted.
3. Gather Supporting Documentation: Collect your transcripts (if qualifying by education), latest SF-50 (for time-in-grade proof), and DD-214 or military spouse records if claiming preference.
4. Submit via USAJobs: Complete the online questionnaire and finalize your submission before November 9, 2026, at 11:59 PM Eastern Time.
5. Complete USA Hire Testing: Check your email immediately after submitting for your unique USA Hire portal assessment link. You have 48 hours from the closing date to complete this 2-hour online evaluation.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I apply if I am not a current federal employee?

An applicant must fall under one of the specific hiring paths listed in the announcement, such as Land Management Workforce Flexibility Act, Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA), Military Spouse preference, or priority placement programs.

Q: How long is the probationary period?

Newly appointed federal employees must complete a standard one-year probationary period during which conduct and analytical performance are monitored.

Q: What software systems will I use daily?

You will frequently interact with the Corps of Engineers Financial Management System (CEFMS), automated real property tools, and advanced Microsoft Excel spreadsheets.

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Building a career with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers provides dynamic job security, impressive benefits, and the pride of supporting vital infrastructure across Texas. By carefully preparing a concise two-page resume, demonstrating your financial analysis expertise, and completing the USA Hire assessment promptly, you position yourself for success. Apply today and build a stronger career with USACE!