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This page can be found on the web at the following url:
https://www.pmf.gov/the-opportunity/pmf-as-a-pathway

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An Official Web Site of the United States Government

the opportunity

PMF as a Pathway

"A Call to Lead, A Call to Serve."

Bearing the Presidential moniker, the PMF Program is the Federal Government's premier leadership development program for advanced degree holders across all academic disciplines. It was established over 45 years ago by Executive Order and has gone through changes over the years, but the essential mission remains the same: to recruit and develop a cadre of future government leaders drawn from all segments of society. Eligible individuals apply to be selected as Finalists. Finalists then have 12 months to secure an appointment as a Fellow, which is a two-year, full-time, paid fellowship at a Federal agency. The PMF Program creates a lasting bond among Fellows and Alumni. It also instills a spirit of public service, which, for Fellows who complete the program successfully, can ultimately encourage and lead to a career in government. 

What Do You Want to Change About Government?

What Will You Give?

You will give the best you have to give to a cause greater than yourself. You will bring fresh, new ideas and a willingness to take on challenges never dreamed possible.  Your zeal for the position will serve to spark new energy and excitement in your co-workers. As part of the PMF "fraternal order," you will portray your elite status through the quality of your work and service to your country. You will need to demonstrate leadership, foster teamwork, set goals and, in the end, deliver something of value to the American people.

What Will You Get?

In addition to salary and benefits, the PMF Program gives you a lot in return for your hard work. Your two-year appointment will provide a fast-paced opportunity to gain experience and develop your talents. You will be challenged with opportunities to flourish into a problem solver, strategic thinker and future leader. In addition to working at a single Federal agency, you may have the option to participate in a rotational opportunity at another agency. These rotational opportunities will challenge you even further and give you insight into how other areas of government operate.

Key Fellowship Benefits:

  • A full-time job with salary and benefits
  • Promotion potential to the GS-13
  • Agency employers must provide each Fellow with 80 hours of formal, interactive training and development each year of the fellowship
    • The PMF Program Office provides access to a two-year PMF Leadership Development Program that can provide a significant portion of those training and development hours
  • An array of substantial employment benefits (e.g., health, life, dental and vision, and long-term care insurance; Thrift Savings Plan; paid holidays and leave; and flexible work schedules)
  • Additional potential benefits, depending on the agency, may include public transportation  subsidies, telework, and student loan repayment
  • Access to a robust network of current Fellows and PMF Alumni
  • Networking events with current Fellows and PMF Alumni

Program Requirements:

  • Initial appointment at the GS-9, 11, or 12 (or equivalent)
  • A minimum of 160 hours (80 hours each year) of formal, interactive training
  • At least one 4 to 6-month developmental assignment in a different office or agency
  • Optional rotational opportunities
  • Assignment of a senior-level mentor
  • Individual Development Plan (IDP)
  • Potential opportunity to non-competitively convert to a term or permanent Federal position upon successful completion of the fellowship

Where Can You Go With This?

As a PMF, you can take your experience anywhere you want to go with your career. Many PMFs have continued their Federal service; many others have gone to the private sector, academia and the non-profit world.

The PMF Program is an excellent leadership training ground. Where will YOU take it?

How Do You Get Started?

It all starts with your application. Get started here.

UPDATED: 06-30-2022