The Government Accountability Office (GAO) is offering an opportunity for Graduate and Undergraduate students to explore a career in public service.  As a volunteer, students would gain first-hand experience assessing or enhancing federal operations.  While the majority of these opportunities will be at GAO headquarters in Washington, DC, there are some opportunities available in GAO field offices.

The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is an independent, nonpartisan agency that works for Congress. Often called the “congressional watchdog,” GAO investigates how the federal government spends taxpayer dollars.  Our work leads to laws and acts that improve government operations, saving the government and taxpayers billions of dollars.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must be

  • U.S. citizen.
  • Enrolled or attending an academic institution (at the graduate or undergraduate level) on at least a half-time basis.
  • In good academic standing (not on academic probation); with a 3.0 overall GPA on a 4.0 scale
  • Available to work at least 20 hours a week at one of the GAO locations identified
  • Able to begin the volunteer position on or after April 2012 and be able to work a minimum of 6 weeks (GAO will accept volunteers on a rolling basis with flexible starting and ending dates)
  • Free from conflict of interest, pass a valid background check and willing to sign a nondisclosure agreement

Submit the following to GAOOutreach@gao.gov no later than 11:59pm on March 27, 2012

  1. Completed Application
  2. Resume
  3. College/University transcript (official or unofficial) that supports the number of hours completed.
    Note: An official transcript will be required prior to the start date if selected for a volunteer position.

Application packages will be reviewed by a screening panel.  The most qualified candidates will be forwarded for an interview.  Interviews may be conducted by phone.

To receive an application, contact – Valarie Sheppard, 202-512-6043 or GAOOutreach@gao.gov

Submitted by Lauren Nicholas