Office of the Secretary Internship For International Program Specialist (2025)

Are you ready to expand your professional experience and work on impactful global programs? The Department of Commerce, within the Office of the Secretary and the Office of the General Counsel, is searching for an International Program Specialist to join the Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP). This role offers an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about global collaboration and innovation in areas like telecommunications, public procurement, sustainability, and anti-corruption.

Whether you’re looking to take your next professional step or leverage your skills in dynamic ways, this opportunity is packed with potential.

Program Overview:

The International Program Specialist plays a vital role in supporting CLDP’s initiatives on key global issues such as Digital Connectivity and Cybersecurity Partnership (DCCP), trade facilitation, information and communication technology (ICT), and promoting anti-corruption measures.

This position requires working in a collaborative and fast-paced environment, engaging with high-level professionals worldwide, and advancing U.S. commercial priorities through technical assistance programs.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as a liaison with international government officials, regulators, business leaders, and diplomatic representatives in foreign countries.
• Assist CLDP attorneys in developing and implementing technical assistance programs.
• Draft and deliver reports analyzing program impacts for the U.S. Department of State and other agencies.
• Secure logistical support for technical programs through multiple procurement channels.
• Oversee and track program budgets, ensuring financial compliance and reporting on expenditures.
• Travel internationally to organize and assist with training sessions, workshops, and consultations.
• Ensure all plans, operations, and expenditures comply with federal regulations and department policies.

This role requires occasional international travel (up to 25%), providing real-world exposure to critical issues impacting global policy and commerce.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must meet certain criteria and qualifications.

Essential Requirements:

• Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
• Must complete a pre-employment background investigation, which includes a financial review and a drug screening.
• Available to travel internationally as required.
• Specialized experience at the GS-7 Federal Service level or higher, including budget tracking, research on global economic topics, and providing logistical support to technical assistance programs.

Selective Placement Factor: Fluency in Spanish, French, or Russian (reading, writing, and speaking). This qualification must be documented in your resume.

Salary and Benefits

The International Program Specialist position is classified under GS-9 Level Federal Employment. Benefits include federal salary payments through direct deposit and potential student loan repayment offers for selected applicants.

Key benefits for this position include:

• Health and retirement plans, aligned with federal employee standards.
• Opportunities for career transition assistance and systematic professional development.
• Networking and collaboration opportunities with high-ranking officials and leaders worldwide.

Please note that federal relocation expenses are not covered for this position.

Skills and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following core skills and qualifications:

• Strong communication skills, particularly in drafting reports, program analyses, and presentations.
• Experience working in global economic topics such as ICT, trade facilitation, or public procurement.
• A solid understanding of logistical management processes to support international programs.
• The ability to work collaboratively with international stakeholders, balancing cultural and professional dynamics.
• Language fluency tailored to program needs (e.g., Spanish, French, or Russian).

Applicants with hands-on experience in program coordination and delivering impactful outcomes are highly encouraged to apply.

How to Apply

Applying for this position requires submitting a thoughtful and completed application that highlights your qualifications.

1. Prepare Your Application Materials:

   • Build or update your federal resume to include detailed work experience, job titles, grade levels, educational achievements, and federal agency details.
   • Include documentation proving your fluency in Spanish, French, or Russian.

2. Submit Your Application:

   • Visit USAJOBS and search for this opportunity under the Department of Commerce.
   • Follow the instructions to complete your application submission. Ensure all fields are accurately filled, and supporting documents are attached.

3. Meet the Deadlines:

   • This is an open continuous announcement expiring on March 12, 2024, with initial application reviews beginning on September 26, 2024. Remaining review dates are set for 10/28/2024, 11/26/2024, 12/26/2024, 01/27/2025, and 02/26/2025. Applications submitted after the final deadline will not be accepted.

Make sure to track your submission and respond promptly to any requests for further information.

Why Pursue This Career Opportunity?

Joining the Department of Commerce as an International Program Specialist offers a powerful platform to grow your career while making an impact on global economic development. You’ll be at the forefront of fostering international collaboration, creating vital relationships across global industries, and assisting developing countries in adopting sustainable and innovative practices.

This role combines professional growth with the chance to develop programs that directly impact the global community, making it an exciting and rewarding step in anyone’s career.

Take the Next Step

If you’re passionate about working in international affairs, supporting impactful programs, and tackling issues that matter, this opportunity is yours to seize. Gain valuable experience, build global networks, and shape meaningful outcomes with the Department of Commerce.

Start your application today on USAJOBS and launch the next phase of your professional career!

Submit Office of the Secretary Internship Application