Management Intern Program (MI) FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
- FAQs related to the Application Process
- FAQs related to the Management Intern Program
- For more information
FAQs related to the Application Process
How many positions are you recruiting for this year?
The program will be recruiting for multiple positions this year.
Do I need a degree to qualify for the MI program?
No, a degree is NOT required.
Am I eligible for the program if I'm a GS-12?
Yes. However, you will be required to take a change to a lower grade (i.e., GS-11) to enter the program. A change to lower grade does not mean that your present salary will be reduced. You will come into the program at the GS-11 level with pay retention.
I understand that GS-8, 10, and 12 grade levels must take a change to lower grade to enter the program. Is that true?
Yes. A GS-8 will enter the program at the GS-7, GS-10 will enter the program at the GS-9, and GS-12 will enter the program at the GS-11. It is important to remember that, while you may be required to accept a change to lower grade, you will retain your current salary.
Why must I take a change to lower grade?
There are two reasons why many of you will be required to take a change to lower grade. The first reason is that, typically, GS-8 and GS-10 are not considered professional grades. The professional grade range for the MI program is GS-7, 9, 11 with the full performance level of GS-12. So, you take a change to the next lower grade in order to qualify for the professional field you are entering, i.e., GS-301. The second reason is that the program is only open at the GS-7 through 11 grades. Therefore, applicants at the GS-12 level must take a change to lower grade to qualify for the program.
Even though you may have to take a change to lower grade, you will retain your current salary. For many of you, entering the program will automatically move you into a professional position with a Career Ladder to the GS-12. A new Career Ladder is not the only incentive; the program also allows many individuals to change career fields.
What types of intern positions are you recruiting for?
Primarily budget and finance, contract/procurement administration, general administration, grants management, human resources, information technology, and program and management analysis, though there are many additional rotational options.
Must I give up my current position if I'm accepted for the program?
Yes, you will be reassigned from your organization to OD/OHR/WSDD/NIHTC as an FTE intern during the time you are in the program.
Can I bring along any notes or other items that I have prepared beforehand in preparation for the Management Intern Writing Exercise?
Bringing along notes prepared beforehand may not necessarily facilitate the writing process because the topic of the writing exercise is not made available to the quarterfinalists before the actual date of the exercise. We do not prepare a set of guidelines that inform our candidates on the best preparatory strategy. The main reason for this is because the topic for this exercise is not restricted to a particular area of focus. It is a general topic and not necessarily geared toward a particular field or area. The main goal of the writing exercise is not to test your knowledge in a particular area but to assess your writing skills.
When will I start the program?
Selectees will enter on duty July 28, 2013 and finish the program on August 1, 2015.
FAQs related to the Management Intern Program
I understand that in addition to having a supervisor, I get to select a mentor. What's the role of the mentor and how do I identify this person?
Yes, you do get to select a mentor. Your mentor will provide you with guidance regarding training recommendations and selections, rotational opportunities, career plans/target position, and issues that are unique to you and your concerns, etc. Prior to selecting your mentor, you will have an opportunity to interview and speak with several senior managers, including Executive Officers, Grant Management Officers, Budget Officers, Contract Officers, etc., regarding their thoughts on mentoring. You will also be given a list of senior managers who have volunteered to serve as mentors.
I understand that I can rotate in a variety of different fields, is that correct?
Yes, you are encouraged to “try out” a variety of different occupations. The typical intern works in six to eight different fields during the program. You may also plan on rotations that last for only a few weeks; this is called a “mini” rotation. Rotations may also be for a few days; this is called a “shadow” rotation.
What is my title during the two years I'm in the program?
Management Intern, GS-301.
Who is my supervisor during the time I’m in the program?
The NIH Management Intern Program Manager, Bob Michon, will be your supervisor of record. He will be responsible for your administrative needs, including timecard and leave approval, PMAP review, processing training and travel requests, answering administrative questions, and any program specific questions.
What will my job be upon completing the program?
You are charged with finding your own position. The program has never had an intern that did not find a position. Many interns find positions through their past rotational assignments.
Are there interns who are designated to a particular administrative field?
There have been in the past, but not this year.
Do interns get any money for training?
Yes, each Management Intern receives a training allowance. The amount for FY2012 was $2,500. The FY2013 budget number has yet to be determined, however it is anticipated that it will be at or near this year’s number.
Are there opportunities to do rotations or work assignments outside of the NIH?
Yes, with sufficient advance time and proper approval interns can rotate to offices with DHHS as well as to agencies outside of DHHS.
For More Information
See a brief video about the program from past and current interns.
Receive important announcements regarding the Management Intern program recruitment process via our listserv. These announcements and notices will keep you abreast of recruitment information.
Join the Management Intern Recruitment Information listserv.
For additional information, please contact us by e-mail or phone:
- E-mail: mi_info@od.nih.gov
- Management Intern Hotline: 301-594-2833
