Individuals eligible to be nominated for the PMI Program are graduate students from a variety of academic disciplines completing a master's or doctoral-level degree from an accredited college or university during the current academic year (September 1 through August 31). Students must be nominated for the PMI Program by the appropriate dean, director or chairperson of their graduate academic program. Students participate in a competitive nomination process devised by their educational institution.
Selection as a PMI finalist is based on the candidates participation and performance in a structured assessment center process which includes evaluation of a candidate's oral and writing skills. PMIs receive an initial two-year appointment. After successfully completing the two-year program, PMIs may be eligible for conversion to a permanent government position and further promotional opportunities.
The PMI Program places a strong emphasis on career development. During the two-year internship, PMIs experience a myriad of challenging career opportunities. The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) facilitates and provides structured orientation and graduation training programs. Additionally, federal agencies also arrange for seminars, briefings and conferences, as well as on-the-job training and other developmental opportunities. Federal agencies also provide PMIs with rotational assignments. These assignments expose the PMIs to additional parts of their agency, another agency or another branch of the federal government.
For further information on the PMI Program, including a list of frequently asked questions, visit the OPM web site at: http://www.usajobs.opm.gov/b3.htm.
