Operations Research Intern, Premier College Intern Program (PCIP)
The United States Space Force (USSF) Space Systems Command (SSC) at Los Angeles Space Force Base is searching for an Operations Research Intern, (PCIP) (GS-1599-04).
Description:
Are you interested in supporting some of the worlds most advanced space and missile technologies in one of the most diverse areas in the country? Come join our team here in sunny Southern California at Systems Command. We are in the city of El Segundo, gateway to the beaches. The area offers a multitude of sandy choices, from Santa Monica to Redondo with plenty of things to do in between including hiking trails, breweries, sporting events, museums, piers, theme parks, zoos, and more. There is only one place in the world where you can surf and snowboard all in the same day, and it is in Southern California!
Space Systems Command is the birthplace of U.S. Space Force's ballistic missile and military space program and is the center of acquisition excellence for acquiring and developing military space systems. Our portfolio includes the Global Positioning System, military satellite communications, defense meteorological satellites, space launch and range systems, satellite control networks, space based infrared systems and space situational awareness capabilities.
The primary purpose of this position is to provide a student trainee appointed to the Premier College Intern Program (PCIP) with invaluable on-the-job training and guidance in the field of Financial Management. As a Student Trainee, you will have the opportunity to acquire practical experience and training in the Financial Management career field.
Key Responsibilities:
- Perform selected tasks and phases of routine studies and projects that require the application of basic occupational field theory and principles in the technical area of financial management.
- Work under the guidance of and in close association with senior personnel to perform a variety of work assignments consisting of established, specific, and related tasks that have been selected to orient the employee in the practical application of basic principles, concepts, and techniques of the occupational field.
- Attend training classes and activities as directed to enhance technical skills and knowledge.
- Participate with senior personnel in conducting non-routine projects, studying Air Force requirements for the projects, and researching and studying the current body of precedents and technical knowledge.
- Receive specific information and explanations on projects, including specifications and basic steps and tasks to be performed.
- Perform segments of project work as delegated by senior personnel, continually coordinating with the senior personnel.
- Analyze information or data gleaned from project results, document project findings, and prepare reports of findings.
- Search technical literature, reports, and other reference material to locate information requested by senior personnel.
- Provide assistance in planning, monitoring, and conducting special studies, projects, and initiatives.
- Assist senior personnel in determining the validity, feasibility, achievability, and efficiency of special studies, projects, and initiatives, and participate in planning these activities.
- Attend meetings to observe interactions and understand working relationships with customers, specialists, and other organizational points of contact.
- Assist in the collection and analysis of information and data, document findings, and contribute to the development of reports.
- Participate in the evaluation of project results and make recommendations for improvement in study and project procedures.
Ideal Candidate:
- Full-time undergraduate (junior) or graduate student enrolled in an accredited college or university.
- Pursuing a BA/MA in Financial Management or business-related field.
- GPA 2.95 or above and in good academic standing.
- Strong analytical and research skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to work effectively in a team environment.
- Ability to obtain Security Clearance (funded by USAF).
Key Skills and Abilities:
1. Knowledge of basic occupational theory, principles, concepts, and practices in the technical area of financial management.
2. Skill in applying basic occupational theory, principles, concepts, and practices sufficient to perform student trainee assignments.
3. Ability to follow instructions and guidance to complete assigned tasks and communicate information to others in oral or written format.
4. Ability to analyze problems, identify significant factors, gather and interpret pertinent data, and apply established rules and procedures in order to recommend effective solutions.
5. Ability to learn and apply basic investigative techniques to accomplish work in the subject-matter field.
6. Ability to gather and analyze basic facts, information, and data, and draw conclusions.
Requirements:
1. Must be a U.S. Citizen.
2. May be required to travel by military and/or civilian aircraft in the performance of official duties.
3. This position is established under the provisions of the Premier College Intern Program.
4. Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.
5. This position is eligible for situational telework.
6. PCS and incentives are not authorized.
Organization:
The United States Space Force (USSF) is a military service that organizes, trains, and equips military members and civilians to protect U.S. and allied interests in space and provide space capabilities to the joint force. USSF responsibilities include developing Guardians, acquiring military space systems, maturing the military doctrine for space power, and organizing space forces to present to our Combatant Commands (CCMDs).
The strategic importance of space can’t be overstated. Political and humanitarian interests as well as commercial concerns vital to the world economy all rely on space-based systems. Launched in 2019 as the nation’s sixth and newest military branch, the USSF was created to protect the interests and assets of America and its allies in this heavily contested realm. The Department of Defense relies on satellites and advanced space-based technology for secure communications, navigation, real-time reconnaissance, precision targeting on the battlefield, early warning of potential missile launches, and even weather forecasting. Guardians and civilians of the USSF are challenged every day to reach new heights in protecting and amplifying these space-based capabilities and defending our way of life by maintaining our edge in space.
The Space Force wants to attract talent with the character and potential to excel, empower them with information and choices, and develop them in line with their desires and the Space Force’s needs to create a high-performing organization necessary to secure and defend space. Please review the new Guardian Ideal to learn more about the new talent culture within the new U.S. Space Force, as we have a chance to make history and rewrite some of the rules—we hope you are excited about the opportunities this will present!