The federal government has become a “career-builder” and any federal government job opportunity can be looked at as a “leg up” on the competition. The federal government sector, like many private sector businesses have started utilizing more internship programs as a means of “growing employees” into positions. Simply put, government internships are all paid positions. They may be part-time or full-time positions depending on the program. The Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) is a program to assist with helping current students gain work experience while still going to school. The benefit to the internship program is the flexible and opportunity to make additional income for the student. The agency keeps track of educational milestones of the employed student and graduation dates. In many cases the STEP Intern will be offered a position based on their time-in-position, generally an entry position with the possibility of growth for the future. Many executives received their “in” by utilizing internship programs such as the STEP program.
Another internship program is the Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) is a program focused on exposing the student to the career field, which the student is focused. Normally, an entry position this program allows for students to learn from their peers and supervisors in their educational field they are currently studying.
With both programs there are eligibly and qualification requirements for a potential candidate selection. Not all interns are offered a permanent position with the federal government agency, yet these programs are a method for potential permanent federal government employment and getting a “foot in the door.”
Basic STEP/SCEP Eligibly Requirements:
Current Student
Field of Choice
Copies of Transcripts
Agency Student Contract
Part-Time or Full-Time Academic Program Status
To read more about applying for federal positions check out my book:
10 Tips for Applying for Government Jobs
For more information on Federal Internship Programs:
http://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/hiring-authorities/students-recent-graduates/