Federal Government Jobs

With more than one million jobs, 400 occupational specialties, and 100 agencies and bureaus, the Federal Government is the nation's largest employer. Hundreds of thousands of job seekers pursue federal employment for multiple reasons: making a difference in the lives of Americans; receiving federal benefits and competitive compensation packages; advancing quickly; job security or the ability to move around geographically and between agencies. Whatever the reason, the Federal Government provides fertile ground for job hunters. US Citizenship is required for most federal jobs.

INTERNSHIP AND EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMS

One of the best ways to get your foot in the door with the Federal Government is to apply for one of the following programs:

Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP) - provides students with part-time federal jobs during the academic year or summer that do not have to be directly related to their major or career goals.

Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) - offers experience related to a student's academic studies. Students may earn academic credit as well as compensation. A student becomes eligible for permanent employment after completing 640 hours of career-related work.

Federal Career Intern Program - appropriate for students graduating undergraduate or graduate degree programs. Interns who complete this two-year formal training and development program may receive full-time job offers.

Presidential Management Fellows Program - offers recent graduates two-year fellowships in a government agency.

Search for program openings advertised on government agency Web sites and apply early.

JOB SEARCH STRATEGIES

People assume the Federal Government is a fortress of red tape. Not true. The government now provides several Web sites to aid in the job search.

USAJobs is the starting point for all job searches related to the Federal Government. The Web site allows you to search for openings by occupation, location, pay grade, government agency, keyword and other criteria. You can even sign up for an e-mail alert that informs you of new job openings.

Conduct further research on agency Web sites and network with individuals who may suggest particular positions or agencies that match your skills and interests, as well as guide you through the application and hiring processes.  

APPLICATION ADVICE

Applying for Federal jobs is not the same as applying for private sector jobs.  

Resumes for federal employment are unique. Learn more and start crafting yours today.

The job announcement may ask for Knowledge, Abilities and Skills statements (KSAs), brief personal essays that explain your familiarity with a skill or requirement. Some are basic: “Describe your written and oral communication skills.” Others are more specific: “Describe your familiarity with issues in biomedical imaging and bioengineering research.”

Your numerical score is based on the information you provide in your application. Points are given for related education, experience, special skills, awards, and any required written tests. The maximum score is 100.

Only the top two or three candidates are generally invited to interview. Your application is going to have an even greater impact on your chances for employment in the government than it would in the private sector.

The Federal Government is slower than private employers to respond to candidates. If the employer is using an automated hiring system, you can try to check the status of your application online. You may also contact the hiring manager three weeks after the closing date for an update.