DHS Internship For International Relations Specialist (Apply Now)

Are you a federal employee looking to take on a new challenge, expand your professional skills, and make a global impact? U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), under the Office of International Affairs (INA), is offering a unique opportunity for current federal employees to join their International Relations Specialist Detail Assignment. This detail offers a chance to grow your expertise, work alongside top U.S. government agencies, and contribute strategically to issues concerning the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

This is not just a job—it’s a chance to elevate your career and help shape critical international policies while broadening your professional horizons.

Program Overview:

The role of International Relations Specialist, under the 0131 series, provides an exceptional one-year non-reimbursable assignment designed for federal employees seeking impactful opportunities. It’s a temporary detail, allowing participants to tackle high-level strategy development alongside professionals in the Asia Division of CBP’s INA office.

This position is based on-site and is not virtual/remote. Occasional travel may be required, adding to the dynamic nature of the role.

Key Duties Include:

• Developing agency-level strategic frameworks for CBP’s work tied to the PRC.
• Conducting research and drafting comprehensive briefing papers.
• Coordinating efforts across CBP, DHS offices, and U.S. interagency partners, including the U.S. Intelligence Community.
• Contributing to policies, programs, and strategies related to U.S. foreign objectives with the PRC.
• Representing CBP in discussions critical to U.S. foreign and security policy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.

This opportunity is ideal for those interested in international relations, strategy development, and leadership roles in government agencies.

Qualifications

To qualify for this detail position, candidates must meet specific criteria and demonstrate relevant expertise.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Current competitive or excepted service federal employee.
• Supervisory approval form signed by your manager.
• Current grade level matching the detail (no temporary promotion opportunities).
• A consistent record of “meets expectations” or higher in recent performance evaluations.
• No outstanding or pending disciplinary actions.

Required Knowledge and Skills:

• Familiarity with the structure, operations, and international roles of DHS offices and agencies, particularly equities involving the PRC (e.g., PLCY, CBP, ICE, and TSA).
• A strong grasp of U.S. foreign policy and security objectives related to the PRC and the Indo-Pacific region.
• Proven ability to establish effective relationships with officials across the foreign affairs community.
• Exceptional written and oral communication skills, with experience preparing complex strategic and policy documents.

This role demands detailed knowledge of cross-agency collaboration and the ability to execute effective strategies on a global scale.

Salary and Benefits

This temporary detail position is designed to offer federal employees a meaningful career enrichment experience. While it does not come with additional benefits beyond your current federal employment entitlements, it represents a valuable opportunity for professional development, potential recognition, and critical contributions to national priorities.

• Maintain your current salary and federal benefits during the detail.
• Strengthen your professional credentials through impactful assignments and strategic collaboration.
• Build meaningful connections with leaders and experts across federal agencies in the global and security policy space.

Participation in this assignment can be a key differentiator in your federal career trajectory.

How to Apply

Applying for this coveted detail assignment requires careful preparation to ensure consideration.

1. Update Your Federal Resume:

   • Include specifics about all prior job positions, including job title, series and grade, agency, detailed duties, and relevant accomplishments.
   • Highlight any related experience in international relations, foreign policy, and strategic coordination.

2. Gather Supporting Documents:

   • Complete the DHS 250-2 Application Form for Joint Duty Assignments (JDA) and get supervisory approval.
   • Ensure that your resume includes your supervisor’s contact information (email and phone).

3. Submit Your Application:

   • Applications are reviewed every 30 days until the opportunity closes. Submit your materials promptly for early consideration.
   • Include all necessary documentation to avoid delays in processing or disqualification.

This assignment does not involve educational substitution, so the strength of your application will be based on your federal work experience and alignment with the position’s requirements.

Why Join the CBP Detail Assignment?

This opportunity offers unparalleled exposure to critical international affairs, the chance to work with high-level U.S. government partners, and the ability to influence policies tied to the PRC. It’s an excellent step toward expanding your network and building expertise in international policy and strategic coordination—crucial skills that can propel your federal career forward.

Not only will you gain valuable experience, but you’ll also contribute to shaping the strategic frameworks that define CBP’s global priorities, ensuring stronger U.S. foreign relations and initiatives abroad.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to expand your career within the federal government and make a lasting impact, this detail assignment with the U.S. Customs and Border Protection is your next big step. With opportunities to collaborate on international strategies, coordinate with interagency partners, and develop critical policies, this position offers a career-defining experience.

Prepare your application, secure supervisory approval, and take the leap toward this remarkable professional opportunity!

Submit Department of Homeland Security Internship Application