Presidential Management Fellows Program (PMF)

Developing Future Leaders to Protect our Public Lands

Help us address climate change, rising wildfire costs, emerging ecosystem service markets, and urbanization.

Become a Forest Service Presidential Management Fellow

Work on challenging, high-level assignments, have an extensive network of peers, directly engage with leadership, and have access to diverse programs and people.

The Presidential Management Fellowship program calls on the best and brightest graduates interested in and committed to excellence in leadership and management of public policies and programs. Turn your academic training into a future career as a government leader with this two-year fellowship.

We seek recent Masters, JD, and PhD graduates from various disciplines, including, but not limited to, public policy, business management, economics, biology, forestry, natural resource management, landscape architecture, and law. Current and former fellows work as forest supervisors, safety officers, project managers, district rangers, and advise the Chief of the Forest Service. We typically hire 12 to 15 new fellows per year.

Fellows also are actively involved with helping to run and improve the program by serving on one or more committees dedicated to making sure the program is sustainable. This helps fellows assume leadership roles and fully capitalize on their fresh ideas and creativity.

Eligibility

Recent graduates who completed a master’s, doctorate, or professional degree within two years , or
Graduate students who expect to complete advanced degree requirements by August 31st of the year following the annual application

Benefits

Full-time job with salary and benefits starting at the GS-9 level or higher
Senior-level mentor to help you in your career path
Individualized plan that puts you on a leadership trajectory
160 hours of formal interactive training on functional, technical, and leadership competencies
At least one 4 to 6-month developmental assignment in a different office or agency
An array of substantial employment benefits such as health, life, dental and vision, retirement plan, paid holidays and leave, and flexible work schedules
Access to a robust network of current Fellows and Presidential Management Fellowship alumni
Networking events with current fellows and Presidential Management Fellowship alumni
Upon successful completion, potential conversion to a permanent position

"Group of people stand in wetland" — Photo: USDA Forest Service photo by Hilary Clark

Program Length

This is a two-year, full-time paid fellowship.

How to Apply

As an applicant, you’ll be evaluated for competency in critical thinking, interpersonal skills, and commitment to public service. Applications open annually for just two weeks in the fall on the USAJOBS website. Check the PMF website for exact dates. If you set up an account with USAJOBS, add an alert for Presidential Management Fellowship so you will not miss the announcement. You do not need a USAJOBS account to apply to the program.

When the Announcement Opens:

You will be directed to the PMF webpage
Navigate to Welcome (pmf.gov), to create an account on the talent management system
You must create an account to apply
Thoroughly read the application requirements and the application tips. Remember, this is highly competitive. Take your time and make sure all your documents are in order.
Complete the online assessment
Submit your resume and transcripts

Finalists

Eligible finalists usually receive a confirmation within four to six weeks after the application period closes. Be sure your email address is correct on the application.

Once notified that you are a finalist, you can search and apply for opportunities through the Talent Management system. You have 12 months from the selection date to find placement with a federal agency. Check the listings regularly because agencies continue to post new opportunities. Use the Talent Management System account to update your resume and contact information if needed.