Applying and Getting Hired for Federal Government Jobs A Guide

Applying and Getting Hired for Federal Government Jobs A Guide Applying and Getting Hired for Federal Government Jobs A Guide Think you need to live in Washington, DC, to hold a federal government job? While about 15 percent of federal government jobs are in that metro area, the remainder can be found at locations throughout the nation. Jobs exist in a variety of fields and often offer salaries and benefits comparable or superior to private companies. Consider making Uncle Sam your new employer by understanding how to apply for and land federal government positions. Deciphering Government Job Ads Some people have the notion that government jobs secretly get filled by having an “in.” Not true! All federal agencies must list their openings publicly. Most post on the website, USAJobs. Along with listings, this site contains valuable information about the process, so bookmark it for reference during your job search. Government job ads follow a distinct, highly detailed outline that ensures all pertinent information gets presented. Some parts look like what you’d expect from any listing- location, salary range, summary of the position, description of duties, and required qualifications. But a variety of specifics also get mentioned. A few of note that may be unfamiliar: Who May Apply. Some positions are open to candidates who have never worked for the federal government. For most of these, any U.S. citizen can apply. Other jobs are available only to members of certain qualifying groups, such as veterans or individuals with disabilities. Still other positions seek “status” or “career appointment” candidates, meaning people who have prior experience as a federal civilian employee. Security Clearance. Think of it as a background check, with “sensitive” jobs requiring a more thorough level of investigation before hiring. Not all federal positions require a security clearance. However, every potential worker should expect to undergo a suitability adjudication process â€" a check that assesses loyalty, character, trustworthiness, and reliability. Series and Grade; Promotion Potential. Don’t get scared off by these numbers. The digits simply help the government categorize and define jobs. Workers may be interested in learning the meaning behind them to better assess wage and advancement potential. See this helpful webpage for further information. Applying for a Federal Government Job As for any job, present your best self. Fill out everything completely and honestly. Double check that you’ve included every document required for consideration, such as questionnaires, transcripts, letters of recommendation, writing samples, and official documentation. And respect the closing date for applications! Federal Government Jobs on You may not think of “flexible” and “government” as words that often go together, but a large number of federal positions involve telecommuting, seasonal work, and other great options. makes it easy to discover these opportunities by posting them on its Government and Politics page and providing a direct link to apply. The U.S. Department of the Treasury, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Department of Labor, and the U.S. Department of Commerce are just a few sectors that have sought talent in recent weeks. Take a look; from a field worker for the U.S. Census Bureau to a contact representative for the Internal Revenue Service, or an educational technician for the National Park Service, your dream job might be waiting. Readers, what sorts of federal government jobs are you interested in? Leave a comment and let us know!