USAJOBS - Job Announcement

Help

The Department of Homeland Security has a vital mission: to secure the nation from the many threats we face. This requires the dedication of more than 240,000 employees in jobs that range from aviation and border security to emergency response, from cybersecurity analyst to chemical facility inspector. Our duties are wide-ranging, and our goal is clear - keeping America safe. For an overview of the diverse responsibilities DHS carries out within the Government, visit our website at http://www.dhs.gov/.

DHS invites qualified individuals to apply to its prestigious Senior Executive Service (SES) Candidate Development Program (CDP), expected to begin in September 2018. Qualified individuals are those who have demonstrated through their performance and experience the potential to assume executive positions within the Federal Government.

The SES CDP is designed to develop the talents and skills of individuals with executive potential in order to create a cadre of candidates who can assume senior management positions at the SES level as vacancies occur. Candidates who successfully complete the program and receive certification of their executive qualifications by an Office of Personnel Management (OPM) Qualifications Review Board (QRB) under the criterion of 5 U.S.C. 3393(c)(2)(B), will be eligible for initial noncompetitive appointment to the SES. Participation in the program does not guarantee placement in an SES position.

Help

Hiring complete

Open & closing dates

01/12/2018 to 01/28/2018
Salary

$89,370 - $136,659 per year
Pay scale & grade

GS 1
Location

Many vacancies in the following location:
- Location Negotiable After Selection, United States
Travel Required

Not required
Relocation expenses reimbursed

No
Appointment type

Permanent
Work schedule

Full-Time
Service
Promotion potential

1
Job family (Series)

0301 Miscellaneous Administration And Program
Supervisory status

No
Security clearance

Not Required
Announcement number

DHS-SES-CDP-2018-10095709
Control number

488496000

Help

CANDIDATE STATUS WHILE IN THE PROGRAM:
Applicants selected to the program from within DHS will remain in their full-time position of record while completing program requirements. Candidates selected from outside DHS will also remain in their full- time position of record while completing program requirements, upon negotiation of a Memorandum of Agreement with the candidate's home agency and DHS.

Applicants selected for the program that do not hold federal status must accept a full-time Schedule B appointment in order to participate in the SES CDP. The Schedule B appointment does not confer civil service status. These appointments may be located around the country. If an SES CDP participant serving on a Schedule B appointment discontinues participation in the program for any reason, his/her employment with DHS will terminate because it is authorized only for an executive development position established in connection with the SES CDP. Similarly, if a Schedule B participant graduates from the SES CDP, but does not obtain an SES position before the Schedule B appointment expires, his/her employment with DHS will terminate because a Schedule B appointment cannot exceed or be extended beyond three years. TSA program selectees that do not hold Federal status must accept a temporary time limited appointment to TSA that is equivalent to the Schedule B appointing authority in other DHS components and with the same conditions that are identified above.

PROGRAM CURRICULUM:

Duration: The program is an intensive leadership development program which lasts approximately 12-18 months. Candidates will remain in their position of record during the entire program, including while completing a program-based rotation.
Orientation Session: The SES CDP begins with a mandatory two-day orientation conducted in Washington, DC. Orientation provides participants with program requirements, policies, and expectations. The required orientation will occur on September 5 and 6, 2018.
Mentor: Through their experience, proven capabilities, and management perspective, SES mentors assist participants in further clarifying their developmental objectives and in identifying developmental assignments and activities. Typically, candidates will meet frequently with their mentor to review progress on their Executive Development Plan (EDP), but also to talk through situations related to their EDPs.
Executive Development Plans: An EDP is prepared by each participant, together with the mentor, and in some cases the first-line supervisor. The EDP is used to identify, track, and document completion of competency-based needs of the participants. The mentor must concur with the EDP activities, and the applicable DHS component Executive Resources Board (ERB) must approve the EDP.
Interagency Learning: Each EDP must include formal interagency learning of 80+ hours - at DHS this is achieved through the American University's Key Executive Leadership Certificate Program (KELCP). The KELCP addresses the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and their application to SES positions government-wide. Selected applicants who have previously completed the KELCP will be required to participate again as a member of SES CDP.
Developmental Assignments: Each EDP must include one assignment that is a minimum of 120-days, outside the candidate's component (agency) of record and substantially different from the candidate's position of record. This assignment must have executive level responsibilities, help prepare participants for the nature and scope of positions they are likely to assume in the SES, and broaden the candidate's experience.
Progress Review: Progress in meeting EDP requirements is closely monitored by DHS component SES CDP Program Managers, by the mentors, and the component ERB. The EDP is evaluated to assure timely completion of program activities.
Qualifications Review Board (QRB) Certification: Upon determination of the candidate's successful completion of the SES CDP by component-level ERB, the DHS SES CDP ERB will review the candidate portfolio and approve for referral to OPM for QRB certification. The component or DHS SES CDP ERB may also determine that additional learning and development is required for successful completion of the program.

Who May Apply

This job is open to…

All groups of qualified individuals within the civil service

Questions? This job is open to 0 group.

Help

Conditions of Employment

U. S. Citizenship
Current Federal Employee
One year supervisory experience at the GS-14 level (or equivalent) or above
You must submit all required application documents by 01/28/2018.

MOBILITY REQUIREMENT: Mobility, or willingness to move, is an important factor that components seek in their senior leaders due to the geographic dispersion of the DHS workforce. Therefore, applicants should anticipate developmental assignments and formal training programs that may require travel for extended periods of time during the training and developmental program. Candidates who do not complete their developmental assignments may be terminated from the program. Applicants selected must uphold a commitment to geographic and other availability for positions throughout the country during the program or may be terminated from the program.REQUIREMENT: Mobility, or willingness to move, is an important factor that components seek in their senior leaders due to the geographic dispersion of the DHS workforce. Therefore, applicants should anticipate developmental assignments and formal training programs that may require travel ~

CONTINUED SERVICE AGREEMENT: Selectees for the program who are DHS Employees will be required to sign a Continued Service Agreement (CSA) to safeguard the Government's training investment. The DHS agreement states that the employee will stay with DHS or other Agency of the Federal Government for three years after completion of the DHS SES CDP academic/formal interagency training element of the program. Employees who voluntarily leave Federal civil service before completing the terms of the agreement will be required to repay the cost of training and related travel expenses, excluding salary or other compensation. This does not preclude an employee from pursuing promotion or reassignment opportunities within the Federal government during the program. Non-DHS Federal employees may also be required to sign a CSA by their own agency.

LAW ENFORCEMENT APPLICANTS: Applicants for target law enforcement positions must meet the requirements of the Lautenberg Amendment [Title 18, U.S.C., Section 922(G)(9)]. Applicants for target SES law enforcement positions must also meet the requirements for placement in a position with secondary law enforcement coverage, as provided in 5 U.S.C. 8336(c) and 5 U.S.C. 8412(d) or in a Customs and Border Protection Officer position with enhanced retirement benefits.

DEVELOPMENTAL ASSIGNMENT FEES: The cost of developmental assignments, travel, and additional training expenses will be funded by the participant's sponsoring DHS component.

Qualifications

To be considered minimally eligible for this program, applicants must meet the requirements described below by: 01/28/2018

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENT
The DHS SES Candidate Development Program requires that all qualified individuals within the civil service have at least one full year of supervisory experience at the GS-14 level (or equivalent) or above, and have demonstrated exceptional executive leadership potential. Supervisory experience includes planning, assigning, and evaluating the work of subordinate employees. (Note: Your resume must explicitly demonstrate one full year of supervisory experience).

Candidates must demonstrate competence and potential for development in the five SES Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) which are the leadership criteria defined by OPM to certify candidates for SES positions. An OPM-administered QRB will certify candidates on their demonstrated mastery of the ECQ's.OPM's guide to the Senior Executive Service Qualifications http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/senior-executive-service/executive-core-qualifications/ provides detailed information on the Executive Core Qualifications: (Leading Change, Leading People, Results Driven, Business Acumen, and Building Coalitions)

SITUATIONAL JUDGMENT TEST (SJT)
All applicants must complete the SJT that will be sent electronically once their application is complete and processed. Competencies addressed in the SJT are:

Flexibility- Is open to change and new information; rapidly adapts to new information, changing conditions, or unexpected obstacles. (Leading Change)
Strategic Thinking - Formulates objectives and priorities, and implements plans consistent with long -term interests of the organization in a global environment. Capitalizes on opportunities and manages risks. (Leading Change)
Developing Others - Develops the ability of others to perform and contribute to the organization by providing ongoing feedback and by providing opportunities to learn through formal and informal methods. (Leading People)

ACCOMPLISHMENT RECORD (AR)
All applicants must submit online written statements (AR), describing their accomplishments against each of the three competencies identified below. (All narratives must be answered in the Assessment Questionnaire; do not upload a separate document with the narratives or include a reference to see the resume).

Financial Management - Understands the organization's financial processes. Prepares, justifies, and administers the program budget. Oversees procurement and contracting to achieve desired results. Monitors expenditures and uses cost-benefit thinking to set priorities. (Business Acumen)
Entrepreneurship - Positions the organization for future success by identifying new opportunities; builds the organization by developing or improving products or services. Takes calculated risks to accomplish organizational objectives. (Results Driven)
Political Savvy - Identifies the internal and external politics that impact the work of the organization. Perceives organizational and political reality and acts accordingly. (Building Coalitions)

Each narrative must include the start and end dates (e.g. June 2009 to November 2009) of the time period during which the activities were performed, within the past ten years. Accomplishments from work performed in the community, one's church, educational experience, or any other context can be included. Each accomplishment must be written with the Challenge-Context-Action-Result (CCAR) model; however, you should not insert CCAR labels into each narrative. Please review the Assessment Questionnaire for character limitations in each element.

Challenge - Describe a specific problem or goal
Context - Describe the individuals and groups you worked with, and/or the environment in which you worked, to address a particular challenge (e.g., clients, co-workers, members of Congress, shrinking budget, low morale, etc.)
Action - Discuss the specific actions you took to address a challenge
Result - Give specific examples of measures/outcomes that had some impact on the organization

TECHNICAL QUALIFICATIONS
You must select one of the four occupational categories below to indicate where you are best qualified. You must meet the technical qualifications for at least one of the positions listed under the categories below for which you are seeking consideration.(You must indicate your choice by way of the online questionnaire and certify that your answers are truthful and correct.)

Core Occupations (CO) - These are non-law enforcement positions which require skill in managing complex mission critical programs related to homeland security. They carry out the core mission of the Department on a daily basis. Examples of positions in this category:
Intelligence
Cyber Security
International Affairs
Infrastructure Protection
Trade and Agriculture
Scientific Research and Services
Emergency Mitigation, Response, and Recovery
Transportation Security
Marine Safety and Security
Immigration Services and Operations

Support Occupations (SO) - These positions require skill in managing complex administrative programs. They provide support to the core mission of the Department. While mission support occupations are essential to carrying out the core mission of the Department, these positions generally do not directly carry out the core mission on a daily basis. Examples of positions in this category:
Management
Finance/Budget
Procurement/Acquisition
Administration/Facilities
Information Technology
Human Capital/Human Resources/Training
Diversity and Civil Rights
Congressional/Legislative/Public Affairs
Policy and Planning
Business Operations/Transformation
Security (Personnel, Information, and Physical)

Law Enforcement (LE) - These positions require skill in managing complex criminal investigation or law enforcement programs related to homeland security. They are core mission positions covered for Law Enforcement Officer or Customs and Border Protection Officer enhanced retirement benefits.
Federal Air Marshal
Protective Services and Operations
Investigations
Internal Affairs
Air and Marine Operations
Border Patrol Agent
Customs and Border Protection Officer
Detention and Removal

Attorney/Legal (AL) - These professional legal positions require skill in preparing cases for trial and/or the trial of cases before a court or an administrative body or persons having quasi-judicial power; rendering legal advice and services with respect to questions, regulations, practices, or other matters falling within the purview of the Federal Government agency (this may include conducting investigations to obtain evidentiary data); preparing interpretive and administrative orders, rules, or regulations to give effect to the provisions of governing status or other requirements of law; drafting, negotiating, or examining contracts or other legal documents required by the agency's activities; drafting, preparing formal comments, or otherwise making substantive recommendations with respect to proposed legislation; editing and preparing for publication statues enacted by Congress and opinions of decisions of a court, commission, or board; and drafting and reviewing decisions for consideration and adoption by agency officials. Examples of positions in this category:
Trial Attorneys
Attorney Trial-Examiner
Naturalization Examiner
Judicial Attorney
Legal Administration Attorney
Attorney Advisor
Legislative Attorney
Attorney-Editor
General Attorney Trade-Mark Trial and Appeal Attorney

Attorney/Legal Applicants: A Juris Doctorate (J.D.) is required and must be an active member in good standing of a State bar. (Note: Transcripts must be provided with your application).

Education

Educational information should also be included on your resume, including the name, city and state of colleges or universities you attended, as well as the type and year of any degree received. Report only attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. For more information, you may refer to the following U.S. Department of Education website: http://www.ed.gov/admins/finaid/accred/index.html

Additional information

Additional Instructions for the Situational Judgment Test
NOTE: After submitting the initial questionnaire, your USAJOBS account may indicate that your application is complete; however you MUST still complete the Situational Judgment Test in order to be considered for the program. Individuals who have accidently deleted the invitation to the Situational Judgment Test or otherwise need the information re-sent (e.g., they feel they have not received due to a SPAM filter) should contact helpdesk@usahire.opm.gov to request the invitation be re-sent. Requests to re-send invitations to the Situational Judgment Test must be received by helpdesk@usahire.opm.gov BEFORE the announcement closes.

Please Note: Before attempting to take the Situational Judgment Test, applicants should visit http://usahire.opm.gov/assess/default/sample/Sample.action to determine if the computer they are using is likely to experience any issues during testing. If you have questions about the computer requirements or require technical assistance please contact helpdesk@usahire.opm.gov.

Reasonable Accommodations for the SJT
If you believe you have a disability (physical or mental), covered by the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as amended and Americans with Disabilities Act 1990 as amended, that would interfere with completing the Situational Judgment Test, click here for more information about the request process:http://help.usastaffing.gov/Apply/images/1/14/USA_Hire_Reasonable_Accommodation_FAQs_-_01-26-17.pdf Requests for Reasonable Accommodations for the Situational Judgment Test must be received before the Job Opportunity Announcement closes, 01/28/2018 to be considered for this job opening. Decisions on requests for Reasonable Accommodations are made on a case-by-case basis. After notification of the adjudication of your request, you will receive an email invitation and have 48 hours from the time the invitation is sent to complete the Situational Judgment Test.

Security Clearance:Some developmental assignments will require the candidate to hold a Secret or higher security clearance. If the candidate does not have the required level of clearance, he or she will not be eligible for that specific developmental assignment, which may limit the candidate's choice of developmental assignments.

Selective Service System: Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, you must certify that you have registered with the Selective Service System or are exempt from having to do so.

Definitions:

Civil Service Career-type appointment verification is indicated on your SF-50 in block 24.
Status Applicantsare applicants serving under career or career-type appointments in the civil service. Status candidates are not entitled to veterans' preference.
Non-Status Applicants are applicants who occupy other than career or career-type appointments within the civil service (e.g., temporary appointments, seasonal, term appointments, etc.).

Note: If you are unable to apply online or need to fax a document you do not have in electronic form, view the following link for information regarding an Alternate Application.

Benefits

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

The Following Candidates will NOT be considered for the program:

Current or former Career SES members or equivalents including members of the Transportation Security Executive Service (TSES)
Former SES CDP graduates from any agency
Current or former, within the last 5 years, political Schedule A, Schedule C, or Non-career SES employees in the Executive Branch
Employees who have had their Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) certified by OPM's Qualification Review Board (QRB)

Candidate Selection Process:

Situational Judgment Test (SJT): Upon submitting your responses to the online questionnaire, you will receive an email invitation to complete the SJT sent from email address usastaffingoffice@opm.gov. You MUST complete the assessment within 48 hours of the close date of this announcement (by January 30th, 11:59 pm EST) to be eligible for this program - and please note that once you begin the SJT, you MUST complete the entire assessment within 2 hours.

Initial Review of Application Package: If applicants successfully complete the SJT, their application will receive an initial review of the resume (5 page limit) and documentation to determine minimum qualifications and eligibility. Best qualified applicants who meet all requirements, will move on for further consideration.

Accomplishment Record Review
Accomplishment Records will be reviewed by a panel in the following three competencies: Financial Management, Entrepreneurship, and Political Savvy. Applicants will be evaluated on the quality and extent of their accomplishments in the three identified competencies. Best qualified applicants will move on for further consideration.

Structured Telephone Interview
An executive panel will rate best qualified applicants in five specific competencies. They will participate in a Structured Telephone Interview (STI), which will assess candidates' competencies using targeted questions and benchmarks to evaluate responses. Applicants will receive an e-mail 2-3 days prior to their scheduled interview. The e-mail will inform applicants of the rules for the structured interview and identify the five competencies that will be the focus of the interview. At the conclusion of this process, applications will be ranked and assigned an overall score. Best qualified applicants will be placed on a selection certificate for selection consideration by all DHS components.

Selection
The DHS SES CDP ERB will make final selection recommendations based on all available information about the candidate's qualifications, DHS's succession planning needs, and projected future vacancies in the SES.

Application of Veterans' Preference: For applicants applying as non-status applicants, category rating and selection procedures place those with veterans' preference above non-preference eligibles within each category. Veterans who meet the eligibility and qualification requirements and who have a compensable service-connected disability of at least 10 percent are listed in the best qualified category.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

1. Resume (limited to 5 pages)- You must show in your resume evidence of progressively responsible leadership experience that is indicative of senior executive level management capability. Your resume should emphasize your level of responsibilities (including supervisory status, as applicable), the scope and complexity of programs managed, and your program accomplishments with the following information:

Full name (ON FIRST PAGE ONLY), do not include any headers or footers throughout your resume.
Mailing address, email address, and day and evening telephone numbers.
Do NOT include date of birth, social security number, or last four of your social security number.
Information about your paid and non-paid work experience related to this position including:
Job title (include series and grade if Federal job); Duties and accomplishments; Employer's name and address; Supervisor's name and phone number; Starting and ending dates of employment (month and year); Salary; Information about honors, awards, and special accomplishment

2. Situational Judgment Test (Note: Sent electronically once you have submitted the Assessment Questionnaire).
The SJT presents applicants with a description of a work problem or critical situation. You will be presented with scenarios and multiple choice responses. You are required to answer how you would "most likely" and "least likely" respond in that situation. Competencies addressed in the SJT are:

Flexibility- (Leading Change)
Strategic Thinking- (Leading Change)
Developing Others -(Leading People)

3. Accomplishment Record:
All applicants must submit online written statements, describing their accomplishments against each of the three competencies identified below. Applicants must address each competency separately and are required to respond to all competencies. All narratives must be answered in the Assessment Questionnaire; do not upload a separate document with the narratives or include a reference to see the resume.

Financial Management - (Business Acumen)
Entrepreneurship - (Results Driven)
Political Savvy - (Building Coalitions)

After each narrative, include the name, daytime telephone number and email address of an individual for each competency who can verify the information you provide. Be sure to indicate whether this person was your supervisor, co-worker, friend, instructor, chairman of a committee, etc. Do not use a spouse or a close relative (i.e. father, mother, etc.), or a person who is presently a direct subordinate as a verifier. The reference must be reachable within a reasonable period. Applicants who do not provide verification information for each competency will be removed from consideration.

4. SF-50: Both Status and Non-Status applicants are required to submit a copy of their Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50), which shows their series, grade, tenure (Box 24), and position occupied (Box 34). Failure to provide an SF-50 with boxes 24 and 34 complete will result in elimination from consideration.

5. Veterans' Preference Documents: Non-Status applicants who are applying for Veterans' Preference should claim preference on their application and also submit the appropriate Veterans' Preference Documentation to include a DD-214 (Member 4 Copy) and/or VA Letter indicating a service-connected disability rating. Applicants claiming 10-point preference must complete form SF-15, Application for 10-point Veteran Preference. Veterans who are still in the service may be granted 5 point tentative preference by providing an official statement of service indicating rank, years of active duty, and honorable service to date. They must produce a DD-214 prior to appointment to document entitlement to preference. Note: Reservists who are retired from the Reserves but are not receiving retired pay are not considered "retired" military for purposes of Veterans' Preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.opm.gov/staffingPortal/Vetguide.asp.

6. Transcripts: Applicants applying to the Attorney/Legal category must submit copies of their Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or equivalent transcripts.

7. Recommendation Letter (Recommended but not Required): See specific requirements of the Recommendation Letter in the "How to Apply" section. Letters not meeting this requirement will not be considered. (Note: Please Upload the Letter under the "Other-Veterans Document" Section)

Please note that all required documents must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST on the closing date of this announcement: 01/28/2018. Application materials received after the closing date will not be considered for the program.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

To apply for this program, you must complete the initial questionnaire, the Situational Judgment Test, and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below.

The initial questionnaire and required documents must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 01/28/2018 to receive consideration. The Situational Judgment Test must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 01/30/2018.

To begin, click the blue Apply button to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire (NOTE: Please be advised that once you submit your Assessment Questionnaire, no additional changes can be made). https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10095709
Click the Submit Application button to submit your application package. It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation are submitted prior to the closing date.
If you log into your USAJOBS account http://www.usajobs.gov/, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. (Note: Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process).
When you receive a notification from your USAJOBS account it may indicate that your application is complete after you submit the online questionnaire and your documentation; however, your application will not be complete until you have successfully completed the Situational Judgment Test.
To return to an incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete. You will not receive a new notification to complete the SJT if you update your application.

Recommendation Letter Language: The SES CDP is intended to identify a high-performing, high-potential talent pipeline for DHS executive succession. While not required, applicants may choose to upload a letter of recommendation from a current senior executive to support their application. This letter may be considered by hiring officials only for those applicants who compete through all application stages and are referred to selecting officials on the final certificate of eligibles. Letters must be from a current member of the federal Senior Executive Service (or retired/departed within one calendar year of the announcement closing date).

You may submit only one letter. Please advise recommenders that they may be contacted for further information.
Letters must be on the official letterhead of the federal agency, or comparable organization, must be dated, and must be no more than 2 paragraphs in length.
The first paragraph must begin with the following statement: I am writing this letter as an endorsement for NAME's application to the DHS Senior Executive Candidate Development Program (SESCDP), as I have had the opportunity to (select one) supervise their work formally or in a matrix capacity/observe them as a customer/observe them as a colleague/other for the duration of (xx weeks/months/years).
The letter must identify at least one of the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) that the recommender determines to be a strength that supports their readiness for development to the executive level, and at least one of the ECQs that the recommender identifies as a gap in which they need greater development or exposure. For each, provide a brief explanation on specific experiences or observations that support both conclusions.
The final sentence of the letter must conclude with the following statement: I strongly/with no reservation endorse NAME's application and selection to the DHS SES CDP.
Letter signature must include full name, current or former title, telephone number and email address

Note: Recommenders are asked to refrain from comments or information that identifies applicant's race, color, gender, religion, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, medical condition, or political affiliations, beliefs or activities.

Agency contact information

Stephanie Blackmon

Phone: 202-770-5114
Email: Stephanie.Blackmon@opm.gov
Address: Department Of Homeland Security Headquarters
245 Murray Lane SW
Washington, DC 20528
US

Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once all required application documents are received, applicants will receive an acknowledgement email from USAJOBS indicating successful submission. Upon conclusion of each phase, applicants will receive electronic notification of their status. If selected to the Structured Telephone Interview, applicants will be contacted by the DHS SES CDP Program Office using email information provided on the resume to coordinate interview scheduling. Once program selections have been finalized, applicants on the Selection Certificate will receive an email from DHS indicating final status (selected-primary; selected-alternate; not selected).

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

Help

1. Resume (limited to 5 pages)- You must show in your resume evidence of progressively responsible leadership experience that is indicative of senior executive level management capability. Your resume should emphasize your level of responsibilities (including supervisory status, as applicable), the scope and complexity of programs managed, and your program accomplishments with the following information:

Full name (ON FIRST PAGE ONLY), do not include any headers or footers throughout your resume.
Mailing address, email address, and day and evening telephone numbers.
Do NOT include date of birth, social security number, or last four of your social security number.
Information about your paid and non-paid work experience related to this position including:
Job title (include series and grade if Federal job); Duties and accomplishments; Employer's name and address; Supervisor's name and phone number; Starting and ending dates of employment (month and year); Salary; Information about honors, awards, and special accomplishment

2. Situational Judgment Test (Note: Sent electronically once you have submitted the Assessment Questionnaire).
The SJT presents applicants with a description of a work problem or critical situation. You will be presented with scenarios and multiple choice responses. You are required to answer how you would "most likely" and "least likely" respond in that situation. Competencies addressed in the SJT are:

Flexibility- (Leading Change)
Strategic Thinking- (Leading Change)
Developing Others -(Leading People)

3. Accomplishment Record:
All applicants must submit online written statements, describing their accomplishments against each of the three competencies identified below. Applicants must address each competency separately and are required to respond to all competencies. All narratives must be answered in the Assessment Questionnaire; do not upload a separate document with the narratives or include a reference to see the resume.

Financial Management - (Business Acumen)
Entrepreneurship - (Results Driven)
Political Savvy - (Building Coalitions)

After each narrative, include the name, daytime telephone number and email address of an individual for each competency who can verify the information you provide. Be sure to indicate whether this person was your supervisor, co-worker, friend, instructor, chairman of a committee, etc. Do not use a spouse or a close relative (i.e. father, mother, etc.), or a person who is presently a direct subordinate as a verifier. The reference must be reachable within a reasonable period. Applicants who do not provide verification information for each competency will be removed from consideration.

4. SF-50: Both Status and Non-Status applicants are required to submit a copy of their Notification of Personnel Action (SF-50), which shows their series, grade, tenure (Box 24), and position occupied (Box 34). Failure to provide an SF-50 with boxes 24 and 34 complete will result in elimination from consideration.

5. Veterans' Preference Documents: Non-Status applicants who are applying for Veterans' Preference should claim preference on their application and also submit the appropriate Veterans' Preference Documentation to include a DD-214 (Member 4 Copy) and/or VA Letter indicating a service-connected disability rating. Applicants claiming 10-point preference must complete form SF-15, Application for 10-point Veteran Preference. Veterans who are still in the service may be granted 5 point tentative preference by providing an official statement of service indicating rank, years of active duty, and honorable service to date. They must produce a DD-214 prior to appointment to document entitlement to preference. Note: Reservists who are retired from the Reserves but are not receiving retired pay are not considered "retired" military for purposes of Veterans' Preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit http://www.opm.gov/staffingPortal/Vetguide.asp.

6. Transcripts: Applicants applying to the Attorney/Legal category must submit copies of their Juris Doctorate (J.D.) or equivalent transcripts.

7. Recommendation Letter (Recommended but not Required): See specific requirements of the Recommendation Letter in the "How to Apply" section. Letters not meeting this requirement will not be considered. (Note: Please Upload the Letter under the "Other-Veterans Document" Section)

Please note that all required documents must be received by 11:59 p.m. EST on the closing date of this announcement: 01/28/2018. Application materials received after the closing date will not be considered for the program.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

Help

To apply for this program, you must complete the initial questionnaire, the Situational Judgment Test, and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below.

The initial questionnaire and required documents must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 01/28/2018 to receive consideration. The Situational Judgment Test must be submitted by 11:59 PM (EST) on 01/30/2018.

To begin, click the blue Apply button to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USAJOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire (NOTE: Please be advised that once you submit your Assessment Questionnaire, no additional changes can be made). https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/10095709
Click the Submit Application button to submit your application package. It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation are submitted prior to the closing date.
If you log into your USAJOBS account http://www.usajobs.gov/, select the Application Status link and then select the more information link for this position. The Details page will display the status of your application, the documentation received and processed, and any correspondence the agency has sent related to this application. (Note: Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process).
When you receive a notification from your USAJOBS account it may indicate that your application is complete after you submit the online questionnaire and your documentation; however, your application will not be complete until you have successfully completed the Situational Judgment Test.
To return to an incomplete application, log into your USAJOBS account and click Update Application in the vacancy announcement. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete. You will not receive a new notification to complete the SJT if you update your application.

Recommendation Letter Language: The SES CDP is intended to identify a high-performing, high-potential talent pipeline for DHS executive succession. While not required, applicants may choose to upload a letter of recommendation from a current senior executive to support their application. This letter may be considered by hiring officials only for those applicants who compete through all application stages and are referred to selecting officials on the final certificate of eligibles. Letters must be from a current member of the federal Senior Executive Service (or retired/departed within one calendar year of the announcement closing date).

You may submit only one letter. Please advise recommenders that they may be contacted for further information.
Letters must be on the official letterhead of the federal agency, or comparable organization, must be dated, and must be no more than 2 paragraphs in length.
The first paragraph must begin with the following statement: I am writing this letter as an endorsement for NAME's application to the DHS Senior Executive Candidate Development Program (SESCDP), as I have had the opportunity to (select one) supervise their work formally or in a matrix capacity/observe them as a customer/observe them as a colleague/other for the duration of (xx weeks/months/years).
The letter must identify at least one of the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) that the recommender determines to be a strength that supports their readiness for development to the executive level, and at least one of the ECQs that the recommender identifies as a gap in which they need greater development or exposure. For each, provide a brief explanation on specific experiences or observations that support both conclusions.
The final sentence of the letter must conclude with the following statement: I strongly/with no reservation endorse NAME's application and selection to the DHS SES CDP.
Letter signature must include full name, current or former title, telephone number and email address

Note: Recommenders are asked to refrain from comments or information that identifies applicant's race, color, gender, religion, age, physical or mental disability, marital status, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship, medical condition, or political affiliations, beliefs or activities.

Agency contact information

Stephanie Blackmon

Phone: 202-770-5114
Email: Stephanie.Blackmon@opm.gov
Address: Department Of Homeland Security Headquarters
245 Murray Lane SW
Washington, DC 20528
US

Learn more about this agency

Next steps

Once all required application documents are received, applicants will receive an acknowledgement email from USAJOBS indicating successful submission. Upon conclusion of each phase, applicants will receive electronic notification of their status. If selected to the Structured Telephone Interview, applicants will be contacted by the DHS SES CDP Program Office using email information provided on the resume to coordinate interview scheduling. Once program selections have been finalized, applicants on the Selection Certificate will receive an email from DHS indicating final status (selected-primary; selected-alternate; not selected).

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

DHS Senior Executive Service Candidate Development Program

Summary

Overview

Open & closing dates

Salary

Pay scale & grade

Location

Travel Required

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Appointment type

Work schedule

Service

Promotion potential

Job family (Series)

Supervisory status

Security clearance

Announcement number

Control number

This job is open to

Duties

Who May Apply

This job is open to…

Requirements

Conditions of Employment

Qualifications

Education

Additional information

Benefits

How You Will Be Evaluated

Benefits

Required Documents

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

How to Apply

Agency contact information

Next steps

Fair and Transparent

Required Documents

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

How to Apply

Agency contact information

Next steps

Fair & Transparent