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Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General Information:
What is the purpose of the Student Temporary Employment Program?
The purpose of the STEP is to provide students with exposure to public service, enhance their educational experience, and provide financial support to encourage their educational goals.
Is U.S. Citizenship required?
Yes.
Is there a minimum GPA requirement?
Yes. 2.00 cumulative GPA. However, a 2.50 GPA is preferred.
Is there a time limit on the appointment?
Yes. Students are appointed to positions not to exceed one year. Appointments may be extended in increments of one year.
Is there an agreement between the school and Ames Research Center (ARC)?
No. There is no formal agreement between the school and ARC.
Can a student pursuing a GED be eligible for the STEP?
Yes. Students enrolled in GED courses and pursuing a GED diploma meets the definition of student (5 CFR 213.3202(b)(1)).
Do students need to take any written tests to apply for the STEP?
No. Written tests are waived for entry into the STEP.
Do students have to submit official transcripts every Semester or Quarter?
No. Official transcripts are requested only once a year. However, unofficial transcripts are requested after every Quarter or Semester.
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Academic Work / Schedules:
Is there a minimum number of hours students must work per week?
No. Students may work full-time or part-time any time during the academic year with the approval from their supervisor.
Do students need to attend school full-time?
No. Students must be enrolled at least half-time as defined by the school.
Can students change their work schedule from time to time?
Yes. Work schedules can change, but must be approved by the supervisor. Work schedules should not interfere with the student's academic schedule.
Can students work after business hours or work at home?
No. Students must work under supervision.
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Duration of Program:
Is there a timeframe for students to finish their degree?
Yes. It is Ames policy that the STEP facilitates the student's educational experience in a reasonable and appropriate timeframe. Therefore, the following timeframes are established:
| AA Degree: |
3 years |
| BA/BS Degree: |
years * |
| Master's Degree |
3 years |
| Ph.D.: |
3 years |
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| * Includes time spent pursuing the AA degree |
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Salary Information:
What grade and salary are students eligible for?
Participants selected from the program are usually paid in grade ranges from GS-1 to GS-4. The actual grade and salary offered will depend on the qualifications of the person selected and the requirements of the position.
| GS - 1: |
High School Student ($8.83/hour) |
| GS - 2: |
High School Graduate or Equivalent ($9.92/hour) |
| GS - 3: |
Completion of 1 Year of Study Post High School ($10.83/hour) |
| GS - 4: |
Completion of 2 Years of Study Post High School ($12.16/hour) |
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The rates shown above are based on the 2003 locality pay chart for the San Francisco area, and are subject to annual review.
The grade range above are for clerical/administrative support positions only. Participants may also be selected into Scientific and Engineering or Administrative Professional positions in grade ranges from GS-4 to GS-11.
Office Automation (OA) clerical positions are entitled to a special rate.
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Benefits:
Are students eligible for health and life insurance?
No. Students are generally not entitled to health benefits. However, students who have been continuously employed for a year without a break in service exceeding five (5) days, may enroll in the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) program at full cost of the premium.
There is no provision for life insurance coverage or retirement for STEP students.
What other benefits are students eligible for?
Students are eligible for annual and sick leave. Students who work full-time normally accrue four (4) hours of annual leave and four (4) hours of sick leave per pay-period. The hours are pro-rated for students working part-time.
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Contact Information:
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Email: STEP/SCEP Office |
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