Program Overview
This 12-month SkillBridge Fellowship is designed for U.S. military service members transitioning to civilian life within 180 days of separation or retirement. The program provides an immersive experience in defense and security consulting, allowing participants to apply their leadership and operational expertise to real-world client challenges.
Key Responsibilities
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams on strategic initiatives and operational improvements
- Support the development of client-ready materials, including presentations and analytical reports
- Identify process inefficiencies and recommend data-driven solutions
- Work directly with project leads to deliver timely, high-quality outputs
- Engage with senior advisors to understand client objectives and translate them into actionable plans
- Apply military experience to help shape long-term organizational strategies
- Utilize problem-solving skills to address complex operational challenges
- Contribute to machine learning-informed strategies aimed at enhancing efficiency
- Maintain clear communication across teams and project stakeholders
- Support special initiatives as directed by program leadership
Eligibility Requirements
- Active approval from your command to participate in the DoD SkillBridge or Hiring Our Heroes program
- Separation or retirement within the next 180 days from any branch of the U.S. Armed Forces
- On track to receive an Honorable Discharge
- Completion of required military transition programs (TAPS/TGPS)
- Attendance at a military ethics briefing within the past year
- Ability to work in person at a designated office location
- Residency within 50 miles of an approved office site
- No fully remote placements available
Preferred Background
- Current or prior security clearance (Secret, Top Secret, or TS/SCI) for roles supporting public sector clients
- Experience managing projects with client interaction and deliverable ownership
- Proven ability to work effectively in fast-paced, team-oriented environments
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Attention to detail in producing technical documents and visual materials
- Capacity to analyze problems from multiple perspectives and adapt solutions accordingly
- Experience synthesizing complex information and learning new domains quickly
- Comfort engaging in professional discussions with leadership and client representatives
Compensation & Benefits
Fellows receive a salary ranging from $98,000 to $163,000, with eligibility for a discretionary performance-based bonus. Additional offerings include comprehensive health coverage, retirement planning through a 401(k), paid time off, parental leave, and adoption support. The program also supports ongoing growth with tuition reimbursement, certification funding, and personal development resources. Additional benefits include disability protection, flexible spending accounts, student loan assistance, emergency childcare, and a mobility stipend to support relocation.
Work Environment
This is an onsite role requiring physical presence at a Guidehouse or client office. Fellows must live within 50 miles of an approved location and be available for up to 25% domestic travel. The program fosters a culture grounded in respect, integrity, innovation, stewardship, and excellence, promoting professional growth in a structured, supportive environment.
Support & Development
Each fellow is paired with a dedicated Buddy to help navigate the transition, answer questions, and provide guidance throughout the fellowship. This mentorship structure ensures a smoother onboarding experience and strengthens integration into the consulting workflow.
