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ICDF- Student Trainee (Information Technology)

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA)
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Clarification from the agency

Open to students at the Freshman, Sophomore, or Junior level enrolled at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or Minority Serving Institution (MSI) on a full-time basis majoring in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Information Technology (IT), Cybersecurity, or Intelligence-related field. Students must be in good standing as defined by the school, with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 or equivalent scale.

 

Duties

The Intelligence and Cybersecurity Diversity Fellowship (ICDF) Program is a Congressionally-mandated program designed to help DHS recruit, retain, and reward the best and brightest. The program provides qualified students opportunities to work alongside highly skilled intelligence and cybersecurity professionals at DHS, gain hands-on technical experience, interact with experts and peers at professional development events, and expand their professional network. This program is funded by the DHS Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer.

Typical work assignments include:

  • Generating basic program source codes utilizing various computer languages.
  • Analyzing cybersecurity programs by assisting with researching new solutions for emerging cyber security threats.
  • Conducting computer forensics analyses.
  • Researching cybersecurity tools and techniques.
  • Assisting with public-facing cyber outreach initiatives and engagement.

PROGRAM COMPLETION AND PLACEMENT PROCESS:
Those who successfully complete the program, and who are eligible, may enter the placement process for employment within DHS in an excepted service position. Permanent placement is not guaranteed, but the expectation is that projected growth within DHS in intelligence and cybersecurity will provide a variety of employment opportunities.

To be eligible for conversion, Fellows must:

  • Obtain a bachelor's degree in a STEM, IT, cybersecurity, or intelligence field;
  • Have a GPA of at least a 3.2 on a 4.0 scale;
  • Complete 480 hours of work at the Department;
  • Participate in designated technical and core training;
  • Collaborate with subject matter expert mentors in intelligence and cybersecurity; and
  • Complete a challenge project (as designated by the agency).

Program Benefits:

  • First-hand, practical experience in intelligence or cybersecurity disciplines;
  • Individual Development Plans (IDP) providing a roadmap for professional development;
  • Participation in high priority challenging projects;
  • Formal and informal training in core and technical competencies;
  • Access to mentors who will provide advice and support; and
  • May be eligible for tuition assistance.

 

Qualifications

Basic Eligibility:

In order to be eligible as an intern under the Intelligence and Cybersecurity Diversity Fellowship Program (ICDF), you must be considered a socially disadvantaged student, currently enrolled as a freshman, sophomore, or junior at a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or Minority Serving Institution (MSI). A qualifying educational institution is defined as a college and/or university and educational institutions or curricula accredited by the U.S. Department of Education.

Applicants must also:

  • Remain in good academic standing as defined by the school, with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.2 on a 4.0 scale during each academic term.
  • Have declared a major in a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), Information Technology (IT), Cybersecurity, or Intelligence-related field.
  • Maintain enrollment on a full-time basis and remain in good academic standing throughout the duration of the fellowship program, if selected.
  • Meet the DHS developed qualifications standards prior to appointment and any physical, suitability, security requirements and if applicable medical clearance; and
  • Commit to twelve (12) consecutive weeks of full-time summer employment from the date of onboarding, if selected.

Students need not be in actual physical attendance, so long as all other requirements are being met.

An academic year of undergraduate education is defined as 30 semester credit hours, 45 quarter credit hours, or the equivalent in an accredited college or university.

To be considered minimally qualified for this position, you must demonstrate that you have the required education and/or experience for the respective grade level in which you are applying.

You qualify for the GS-03 grade level, if you have:

EDUCATION: Completion of one (1) full academic year of post-high school study from an accredited institution.

You qualify for the GS-04 grade level, if you have:

EDUCATION: Completion of two (2) full academic years of post-high school study or an associate degree from an accredited institution.


Special Provisions/or Interns with Previous Related Education or Experience. Previous education and/or experience may be evaluated to determine the highest grade level for which the individual is qualified.

National Service Experience (i.e., volunteer experience): Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

All qualification requirements must be met by the closing date of this announcement.