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What types of documents might I need to provide?

Job announcements will indicate the need to supply one or more of these types of documents in the How to Apply section.

Cover letter

A cover letter may be included if there is additional information you wish to express to the hiring authorities that is outside of what is normally included in a resume.

Transcripts

A transcript is a copy of your permanent academic record from a high school or college. To get a copy, contact the high school and/or college registrar office for instructions. Refer to the job announcement for specific instructions on which transcripts, if any, should be included.

If there are other additional documents that you wish to pass to hiring authorities, you can attach them under this document type. In addition, some jobs may require specific documents outside of this list such as writing samples, which can be attached using the type of "other".

Senior Executives

Executive core qualifications (ecqs).

If you're applying to a Senior Executive job within the Senior Executive Service (SES) you must demonstrate you possess the Executive Core Qualifications (ECQs) . The ECQs define the competencies needed to build a federal corporate culture that drives for results, serves customers, and builds successful teams and coalitions within and outside the organization. The ECQs are required for entry to the SES and are used by many departments and agencies in selection, performance management, and leadership development for executive positions.

The ECQ requirement only applies to jobs within the SES. There may be other senior executive level jobs outside of the SES that require different qualifications.

Federal employees

The OF-306, Declaration for Federal Employment is used to determine your acceptability for Federal and Federal contract employment and your enrollment status in the Government's Life Insurance program. You may be asked to complete this form at any time during the hiring process. Follow instructions that the agency provides. If you are selected, before you are appointed you will be asked to update your responses on this form and on other materials submitted during the application process and then to re-certify that your answers are true.

The SF-50 is a permanent record in your Official Personnel Folder that documents and reports all personnell actions (except mass transfer and mass change actions). It's the required form of notification for accessions, conversions, and separations, and for corrections and cancellations of those actions. It also details your series, grade, and proves that you worked where you said you worked, as well as when and how much you were paid. All current and former federal employees have an SF-50. Learn how to obtain a copy of your SF-50 .

The DD-214, "Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty", is issued to military members upon separation from active service. It contains information about the veteran's dates of military service and separation. Most veterans and their next-of-kin can obtain free copies of their DD Form 214 Report of Separation and other military and medical records through the National Archives Veterans' Records Service .

The SF-15 "Application for 10-point Veterans' Preference" is used by Federal agencies and OPM examining offices to adjudicate individuals' claims for veterans' preference.

Additional resources

• Standard forms (OPM)

Still need help?

• Federal Cover Letter Sample
• Federal Resume Guide
• Federal Resume Templates

Last Updated on 12/26/2023

Sample cover letters for government jobs provide clear guidance to help you craft an enticing message to a job recruiter. Your letter should be no more than one page and quickly highlight your best qualifications for the desired position.

A government cover letter template will guide you through the elements that a strong cover letter needs to succeed. In general, the letter must:

• Name the open job position and employer
• Cite technical skills and training
• Refer to the candidate’s strongest work experience.

When writing your letter, keep in mind the priorities of the person who’ll read it. That person does not have much time to look at your letter. The reader’s whole goal will be to spot details that match the job description.

A closer look at a sample letter reveals specific techniques for conveying technical skills and real-world experience.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 The Opening Paragraph
• 1.2 Second Paragraph 
• 1.3 Third Paragraph 
• 1.4 Fourth Paragraph 
• 1.5 The Final Word

Federal Cover Letter Example

In this sample cover letter for a government job , you see a simple format. The job candidate’s contact information is at the top of the page. The salutation addresses the exact person screening job candidates. It’s important to add the exact name when you know it to demonstrate your attention to detail.

The Opening Paragraph

The opening paragraph states the job position and department. This immediately communicates to the reader that the candidate took the time to customize the letter for the application.

Second Paragraph 

The 2 nd paragraph recognizes the issues that form the department’s operational purpose. The recruiter will favor candidates who frame the discussion around the employer’s needs. The candidate’s references to an analytic and quantitative background fit with the job’s work duties. In the rest of the paragraph, the job candidate makes strong statements about academic training, international work, and communication skills.

Read on How to Write a Cover Letter for a Government Agency

Third Paragraph 

The 3 rd paragraph strives to portray the candidate as someone who never stops learning. The letter provides information about the candidate’s current participation in an intense graduate training program at a prestigious university. Details about the finance and econometric content of the curriculum sharpen the focus on the candidate’s advanced skills.

Fourth Paragraph 

The 4 th paragraph highlights a person’s international experience. The candidate cites two accomplishments in business and finance. The closing paragraphs describe the person’s process for solving problems while accomplishing goals overseas. The candidate emphasized the creativity and leadership necessary to succeed in the projects. This information shows that the person has the ability to work independently.

The Final Word

The letter finishes with a summary of the person’s technical skills and a desire to serve the public. The strong examples within the sample letter have a high potential to motivate the recruiter to look at the resume.

Need more information? See another government resume template.

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How to Tailor Your Cover Letter to a Government Job

Getting Started Don’t apply at the last minute and make sure you give yourself plenty of time to take these steps :

• Carefully read the entire announcement before applying. It seems obvious, but each announcement, even in USAJobs, is different and will have different skills needed for the job. Print a hard copy of the announcement and highlight a checklist to ensure you can address at least 3 out of 5 of the skills they’re asking for. Once you highlight their requirements, it will be easier to go back to your own cover letter to address those points.
• Research the agency to which you are applying. Your cover letter is your first opportunity to express how your mindset and talent matches with that of the organization. Catch the hiring manager’s eye by demonstrating you’ve done your homework and are familiar with the agency’s mission and some of its current programs.
• Get specific . Explain exactly what experiences you have had that make you a great candidate for the position. Don’t just say “I did x,y, and z.” For government jobs, use numbers, dollar amounts, and specify how many years for as much as you can.

Tailor Your Cover Letter So what does it mean to tailor your cover letter to the job? It’s not just highlighting your experiences and hoping the hiring manager will see a good fit. You have to connect the dots for them and that means making your skills match the required skills almost word-for-word.

First, compare your resume and the job announcement side by side. Highlight the requirements they’re asking for the job and highlight corresponding skills and experiences you have from your resume. Try doing this process in about 15 to 20 minutes. This will also help you practice for interviews since you will eventually be required to quickly recall your job experiences.

And of course, go over your applications materials in depth to make sure you don’t submit any formatting, grammatical, or punctuation errors.

Here is an example of a post from USAJobs with keywords in bold:   The Student Trainee (Contract Specialist) – PATHWAYS Intern  is a member of a team responsible for the negotiation, award, and monitoring/administration of Federal assistance agreements (grants and cooperative agreements) and contracts for a wide array of research, non-personnel support services, specialized studies and other activities necessary to support the FHWA Headquarter, FHWA Turner-Fairbanks Highway Research Center, State Division Office, and Resource Center program offices.  Under close supervision of the Team Leader, the intern will perform the following functions:

• Assists in pre-award and post-award functions involving a full range of procurement actions, typically involving technical services or programs of research and development , specialized equipment or systems.
• Assists with  developing requests  for  applications  (RFA), requests for  proposals  (RFP), and requests for  quotations  (RFQ).  The intern will help to  analyze, evaluate, and negotiate  proposals and applications for agency contracting and Federal assistance opportunities.
• Assists with  acquisition planning, scheduling  procurement from time of acceptance through award.

Here’s an example from my undergraduate resume to match with some of the above points:

• Nonprofit Volunteer Coordinator: Oversaw research and development as well as the technical production of building Tunnel on campus and acquirement of specialized equipment systems needed for sound and visual media. Cost of production was over $20,000 and took a total of 9 months to plan.
• University Program Board Director: Developed and negotiated over 50 proposals and contracts with speakers and agencies, scheduled and planned 100 events by coordinating facilities, catering, as well as budget of over $30,000.

You’re not going to have the exact same positions as specified in the job announcement. But chances are you’ve had some academic, volunteer, and/or professional experiences that are applicable. Be sure you’re also not making up your skills just to fit the job requirements. Just adjust words in your resume and cover letter to better fit the job vacancy.

Draft the Cover Letter Now that you have gone through your resume and highlighted matching examples to the job requirements, it’s time to start writing your cover letter. Choose the three most relevant examples from your resume that you can tailor to the position. This is because a cover letter should be no more than 3-4 paragraphs, so you want to be succinct. Use numbers, years, and any dollar amounts to be as specific as possible.

Here’s an example to start off with relevant points highlighted from the above USAJobs vacancy:

Dear Ms. Smith,

As a recent graduate of (xyx program), I am seeking to apply my 4 years of research, administrative, and event planning to a career in public service. I am interested in the Student Trainee Contract Specialist Position because I want to specialize in negotiation, award, and monitoring of Federal assistance agreements . More importantly, I believe my negotiating, evaluative, and analytical skills all would be highly suitable for the position.

The next two to three paragraphs should each draw on a bulleted example you use from your resume elaborating on how your experiences in the position apply to the job vacancy and how it would help you to grow in the role.

Remember, your cover letter is your opportunity to make a good first impression with the hiring manager. It can determine whether or not the hiring manager will even read your resume. While it is a long and tedious process for a seemingly short letter, it’s important to allow the necessary time and research to make sure that your cover letter keeps the potential employer reading.

For more resources on cover letter writing, be sure to check out these posts:

– How to Tweak Your Cover Letter and Resume for More Impact

– Are You Making These 4 Mistakes in Your Cover Letter?

For more reading about millennials in public service, check out this weekly GovLoop series,  First 5: Advice from millennial to millennial

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Leading from the Middle

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great points. would have loved to see an example of a complete cover letter (the link is broken in :Example of a cover letter tailored to a federal position”)

U.S. cover letter tips and examples

Many jobs in the USA will require you to write a cover letter. Find tips on how to write a strong cover letter. Review examples and download a template you can fill in.

What is a cover letter?

A cover letter is a short document that you submit along with your resume when applying for a job. It is meant to share more about you than just the information on your resume . 

A cover letter allows you to:

• Introduce yourself.
• Share your interests and values.
• Highlight your experience and skills in more detail.
• Explain why you are a good fit for the position and the company. 
• Show your communication style. 

Job applications will state whether a cover letter is required or optional. If it is marked optional, consider submitting one if you have important information to offer that’s not listed in your resume. 

10 tips for writing a good cover letter

1. do your research..

Visit the company’s website and LinkedIn profile and read about its mission, work, and team. Find the name of the hiring manager.

2. Make sure your letter has a good structure. 

It should have these key sections:

Date: This can be at the top of the letter.

Address your letter: After the date, add your contact information including your email address. Add the employer’s contact information below it. This should be followed by a “ Dear hiring manager, ”. If you can find the specific name of the person doing the hiring, you should include that instead. 

Opening : Introduce yourself and name the position you are applying for. Explain why you are interested in this job and how you will be a good fit for it. 

Body : Describe your education, work experience, and qualifications that are relevant to the position you are applying for. Give examples of specific projects that relate to the work and skills outlined in the job description. 

Closing : Restate your interests and qualifications. Thank the reader and ask for a meeting or phone call. 

Signature: At the bottom of the letter include a “ Sincerely, ” followed by your signature and then typed name. 

3. Share you understand what the company does and why you like them.

It is important to show you have done your research and are familiar with the company culture. Explain what you like about the company and why you want to work with them. Talk about the values and goals that you share with the company. 

4. Write about yourself and not your team. 

Use the word “I” instead of “we” when talking about your specific strengths and accomplishments.

5. Highlight what makes you unique. 

Talk about the strengths, skills, and experiences that will help you succeed in your job. For example, how will your immigrant or refugee background be an asset to the position and company?  

6. Focus on what you’re good at. 

Write about the skills and experiences you have. Do not mention qualifications that you do not have. You can still be a good candidate even if you do not have all the skills listed in the job description.

7. Write clearly and concisely. 

Do not include any information that’s not related to the job or company. Do not repeat basic information in your resume. Instead, give more detail about a specific skill or achievement. Tell a story about a time you made a positive impact at work.  

8. Use good formatting and the same font as your resume.

Set the margin to 1 inch on all sides. Use single spacing. Left align the text. Make sure to use the same font style and size on your resume. 

9. Proofread your cover letter. 

Check your spelling, grammar, punctuation, and word choice with a tool like Grammarly. Reading your cover letter out loud can also help you catch mistakes. Ask a friend to read your cover letter and give you feedback.

10. Save your cover letter in the correct format. 

Check your job application for instructions on which format to save your cover letter in. You may be asked to share your cover letter as a word document or PDF. Others might ask you to upload it on a website.

Cover letter templates and examples

Learn how to format your cover letter. Download this cover letter template and fill it in. 

• Career One Stop has a template and tips for writing a cover letter. 
• Upwardly Global’s cover letter guide includes a template, cover letter samples, practice questions, and a checklist. 

An effective cover letter is important if you want a good chance at your dream job. Best of luck on your job search!

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How to write winning resumes and cover letters for federal internships

Not all resumes are created equal — at least when it comes to those for the federal government.

Applicants applying to a government internship might feel inclined to copy and paste the same resume that has been submitted to other positions outside the federal government. But there are some key differences and tips to know when submitting a resume to Uncle Sam.

For one, while private sector hiring managers prefer resumes that do not exceed one page, federal job applications do not adhere to this standard. Government jobs actually prefer multiple-page long resumes that list experience, education, job titles and descriptions, salaries, employment dates for timeline comparisons, successes made during previous employment and how an applicants skills and abilities apply to the job description, according to USAJobs .

Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo talks with student at a job fair at Purdue University, Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2022, in West Lafayette, Ind. (AP Photo/Darron Cummings)

USAJobs, the premiere job board for agencies looking to hire, offers a template that helps create a uniform, succinct resume tailored to government work. That’s a good place to start, but experts interviewed by Federal Times offered additional tips to help applicants submit the best resume and cover letter possible, prepare for an interview and complete an application properly.

Before an applicant can even get to the stage of applying, one must find the internship itself. Sadly, there is no exhaustive list of every available federal internship. However, USAJobs and the Pathways Program are both popular options that list many federal internship opportunities across agencies.

Pathways recently proposed changes to expand its eligibility and provide internship opportunities for individuals without a college degree.

Strict deadlines

After finding job listings that look promising, note the deadlines of the position as many federal positions have strict deadlines and due to the lengthy application process and security clearances , can come up sooner than expected. This means starting the process early and noting all deadlines before even beginning to fill out forms.

“Work on it early, especially if you are a university student,” said Brian Rowe, director of experiential education at American University’s career center. “Start to plan a path of exploration because internships can be exploratory. You don’t have to start an internship the very first minute you get to college, but start the process of evaluating what you’d like to explore, what you’d like to do and see how it fits into a path … Sometimes you have to get the ball rolling really quickly because of security clearances.”

Many federal internships use technology to sift out applications that do not satisfy their requirements, so make sure when applying to federal internships, buzzwords from the job listing are sprinkled throughout the resume.

“Try to use as many of the keywords that are in the job description in your resume,” said Kira Carney, a former National Park Services intern. “I’m pretty sure this internship had an electronic scanner that your resume is processed first electronically and weeded out, for federal jobs that’s definitely true. So using keywords is a great way to bolster and tie your resume as much as you can to the position.”

For agencies that do use an automated application process to sort through resume’s, the machine is not the only one doing the work. Applications that correctly fit the job application will be sent on to a human representative who will give them a more in-depth review.

So, when building a resume for a federal internship, focus on keeping the font neutral and readable and make sure the formatting is not confusing. Don’t try to be fancy, but highlight qualifications and let the work speak for itself.

Many federal internships are not expecting every applicant to have lots of previous employment, so experience like volunteer work, relevant in-depth projects, topical academic work and research are all relevant.

How to stand out

“To stand out, you want to take that job description and apply it [to your resume] because federal job descriptions are very clear,” Rowe said. “They aren’t ambiguous. Look at what it is saying. What is it asking for? What are the action verbs? What are the tasks? What are the skills that are required? And reflect that back in context for your experiences.”

An excellent cover letter also speaks volumes, Rowe acknowledged . The cover letter lets the hiring manager know why they should hire an applicant over anyone else. Use the opportunity a cover letter presents to tell a story.

“It’s a short way to give a narrative and focus on the skills and experience that the internship is looking for,” Rowe said. “Sometimes people describe their resume as the “what,” like what are my skills, what is my knowledge, what’s my training - academic or otherwise - and the cover letter can be a little more of the “why,” what’s my motivation, why am I applying for this, why am I really motivated to come in and do a great job?”

It’s also good to specify the federal agency’s name in the cover letter and mention something about it to show interest.

“I found it fascinating when applicants could mention the agency and the mission,” said Carol Wilkerson, former Press Director at the Small Business Administration and a former recruiter for the Peace Corps. “Those who mention the agency or the mission or something that was recent in the news relating to the internship position they are vying for, that helped me put that applicant at the top and that person got additional points pertaining to the interview level.”

It’s also important to keep in mind who the audience is. While it may not be apparent who exactly is reviewing each resume, knowing what hiring managers are looking for is important. On top of the job description, employers are looking for demonstrated commitment.

“When I’m sifting through those resumes, I would always look at their scholarly achievements, where they are in their career goals or what they have done community service-wise and any volunteer activities that can show me that that person is committed and dedicated to this particular assignment,” Wilkerson said. “I do look at that timeline to see if this person is going to stay on the course with us.”

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While waiting in the interim to hear back on whether an application will move forward to the interview phase, a follow-up email with a thank you note is a good step to boost an application’s chances of getting noticed.

“I actually reached out to the contact for the [internship] I ended up getting, just to follow up on my application,” Carney said. “And she actually told me that I was one of very few who followed up, so that’s why I got an interview because there were over 100 [applicants] and they started with people who took the initiative to follow up.”

Once an applicant has been selected for an interview, it is important to prepare for the interview. Do mock interviews, think of ways to answer popular questions, like the star method , research the agency’s missions and look for advice from trusted sources who might have experience in similar realms.

“I had jobs in high school and the beginning of college, but those were all server jobs, kind of your basic restaurant jobs,” said Katie Gray, a former intern at the Federal Bureau of Investigations. “They weren’t super serious, so this was my first real job interview so I talked to my parents for advice. I talked to a family friend who had been in the military for several years and had knew what to expect from government interviews. And then I made a list of some questions I was expecting and prepared some answers.”

Georgina DiNardo is an editorial fellow for Military Times and Defense News and a recent graduate of American University, specializing in journalism, psychology, and photography in Washington, D.C.

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How to Write a Federal Resume and Apply for a Federal Job

Customers Interviewed by:

The US federal government employs over 2 million people, not even counting military service branches. Federal jobs are highly contested thanks to great benefits, role longevity, and social importance. While USAJobs , the prime job board for federal jobs, is a great place to find opportunities, applying for federal jobs and writing a federal resume can be confusing, overwhelming, and counter-intuitive to those job seekers who have only applied in the private sector.

We spoke with federal resume experts for their insights to help first-time federal applicants learn to understand a job vacancy announcement, how to write a federal resume , how to apply through USAJobs, and what to expect from the lengthy federal job application process:

• Lex Levin of Lex Levin LLC
• Nancy Segal of Solutions for the Workplace
• Karol Taylor, co-author of Find Your Federal Job Fit
• What the government wants
• Federal job descriptions vs private sector JDs
• The Occupational Questionnaire
• Federal resumes vs private sector resumes
• Writing your federal resume
• Federal resume tips

The Government wants demonstrated experience

For federal jobs, experience trumps almost everything. Hiring agencies aren’t interested in potential, or as Segal says, “It’s not about your journey. You should have already arrived.” Federal HR wants to see proven success, role mastery, and expertise.

The entire federal job application process is about demonstrating that you are the ideal candidate by showing your experience and success. Experience even outweighs education for most jobs unless an applicant’s education is part of the value proposition, such as scientist or mathematician jobs.

Federal HR will not make any assumptions about your resume. Even things that seem very straightforward need to be explicitly spelled out. Federal hiring practices are highly regulated, so federal HR personnel can’t make those assumptions. Every assumption could risk an EEO complaint or even a call from Congress.

As Segal puts it, “From a federal perspective, if it’s not on the resume, you didn’t do it.”

How is a federal job description different?

When a job is posted on USAJobs, it’s called a ‘job vacancy announcement’ (JVA). This job description contains far more than the basic list of responsibilities and requirements of a private sector job description.

Segal recommends spending at least an hour thoroughly reading through the JVA. Understanding the JVA is key to structuring your resume to not just fit the job but to also demonstrate how you’re perfectly qualified.

You should use the same language that appears on the JVA on your resume to draw those lines even more clearly. Jobscan helps automate this process to make it go faster, letting you identify the most important keywords and skills.

Important sections of the JVA

Who may apply.

Not all JVAs will have this section, but make sure you fit the specifications if you see this section. These specifications usually involve citizenship, protected groups, etc.

How to Apply

Pay close attention to this section. Some jobs will require you to apply through the USAJobs resume builder.

Agency Contact Information

Segal advises that if you have further questions, pick up the phone and call the agency. Taylor explains, “The best times to call an agency are at 8:30 AM, 11:30 AM, and 4:30 PM EST. To really connect with agency employees, you have to target times when they aren’t as busy – first thing in the morning, right after lunch, and just before they head home.”

Score at least 70 on the Occupational Questionnaire

Many federal applications include a very important step called an occupational questionnaire . This questionnaire requires you rate to your knowledge, skills, and abilities that are relevant to the job you’re applying for.

While federal resumes are reviewed by humans, the questionnaire is scored by computers. If you don’t score high enough based on your questionnaire, your resume will end up in the ‘no’ pile before anyone has even seen it. A high score (70 at minimum) on the occupational questionnaire is the best way to ensure that a human will see your resume and review it.

However, don’t take that as a reason to lie or exaggerate your self-ranking. If you don’t feel like you can score yourself highly for each question, it’s a good indication the job isn’t a good fit for you. The occupational questionnaire is a likert scale, starting at A and going to the highest ranking of E.

Levin describes how occupational questionnaire questions are valuable to the job seeker: “If you’re looking at the questions and your stomach is sinking because you realize you’re not able to answer most of them at the E level, that should tell you that the job is not a good fit for you.”

Segal adds: “If you do not have what they are looking for, don’t bother to apply, because you’re unlikely to get any traction.”

The occupational questionnaire gives you even more understanding of what the hiring agency is specifically looking for in the role. Take the opportunity to prove your expertise not just by rating yourself E, but by demonstrating how you used the skill to succeed.

What’s the difference between a federal and a non-federal resume?

Writing a resume to apply for a job in the federal government is extremely different from applying in the private sector. Federal HR may look for some of the same things that a private sector recruiter will, but their perspective is completely different.

Taylor likes to tell her clients, “Leave everything you know about resumes at the door.”

How long should a federal resume be?

Federal resumes are much longer than a standard private sector resume. Federal resumes usually range from 6 to 8 pages depending on the applicant’s level of experience and the seniority of the job. Even entry-level applicants should furnish resumes of 4 to 6 pages.

“Federal resumes are so much longer, dense, and complex than private sector resumes,” explains Levin. “This is because federal HR wants to see that you have the actual experience that they’re looking for.”

The length of federal resumes comes from the amount of detail each resume section needs to contain. Since federal HR personnel are precluded from making any assumptions of what your prior work entailed, you’ll need to list out each responsibility and the details associated with it. While a list of responsibilities is important, even more importantly, you’ll have to detail how your skills allowed you to succeed with each of these responsibilities by giving specific examples.

“You specifically have to use the keywords from the federal job announcement to show that you are absolutely the best fit and the right person for this job because you have already done this kind of work before,“ adds Levin.

One way you can find those keywords is by scanning the JVA and your resume with Jobscan .

You don’t need to include information that doesn’t relate to the job you’re applying for. Keep details about prior jobs that don’t relate brief or omit them entirely – the government doesn’t care about employment gaps.

Federal Resume Requirements

Federal resumes have strict requirements, and not following these requirements is a great way to get passed over. While agencies are not required to eliminate candidates who do not follow the rules, they can. As Segal explains, “If I’m sitting there as an HR person facing a thousand resumes and only a few days to go through them, I want to figure out how to winnow my pile. What’s the best way to do that? Eliminate those who didn’t follow all the rules.”

Hours Worked

Federal HR uses hours worked to determine your amount of experience, so federal resumes require your average weekly hours for each job in your work experience section. The government often requires at least 52 weeks of experience in the skills on the JVA.

Supervisor Name and Contact Information

List your immediate supervisor and their contact information for each job you list. Make sure to denote whether your current supervisor can be contacted or not.

To avoid putting yourself in an awkward position at your current job, Taylor suggests requiring you be asked before your supervisor is contacted. If asked, find out if the hiring agency is ready to offer you the job as soon as they contact your current supervisor.

References aren’t always required – it depends on the hiring agency. However, it’s a good idea to include them if you have space.

Despite the controversy over disclosing prior pay in the private sector, salary is commonly included on federal resumes. Whether it’s required in your resume depends on the hiring agency.

‘GS’ or ‘ General Schedule ’ is the pay scale for most of the federal government. If you’re already working in the government, use your GS level instead of your salary.

Writing Your Federal Resume

There are three good methods for creating your federal resume:

• Write it yourself
• Build it with USAJobs’s own federal resume builder
• Hire a federal resume writer

Some JVAs may actually require you to apply through the USAJobs resume builder, but it might not be obvious in the JVA itself. For this reason, among others, both Taylor and Segal suggest applying through the USAJobs resume builder instead of creating a resume from scratch.

No matter what choice you make, do not procrastinate on applying if you find a JVA you’re interested in. The application process is much more time consuming than a private sector job application, and JVAs have a strict close time. There may also be unexpected requirements once you’re finished applying through USAJobs.

Federal Resume Format

Levin recommends building your own resume, because although federal resume formatting is very conservative, there are a few things you can do to make your resume stand out. Additionally, you control the content and don’t have to worry about the character limits of fields on the USAJobs resume builder.

The official font of the US government is Times New Roman, size 12. Some JVAs will actually require you to use this. If it’s not required, you can use different fonts, but nothing too modern. Jobscan’s guide on appropriate resume fonts can help you choose the best fonts. Levin’s favorite font to use on a federal resume is Calibri, with Arial Black used for section headings and contact information.

You can use tables and columns in your resume, but be sparing with them. Bullet points are also acceptable, but avoid other special characters. You can upload multiple documents, so be sure to upload your resume as both a PDF and a DOCX to cover all of your bases.

Using the USAJobs federal resume builder

Using the USAJobs resume builder is a great idea if you’re new to the federal job application process. The resume builder requires all of the important information that could get you disqualified if omitted, so there’s an extra level of safety in using it. There is, however, a lot of information to include in the builder, so it does require a good deal of attention to detail. Make sure you don’t accidentally skip any fields.

The biggest drawback of using the resume builder is that the fields for prior job experience have a 5,000 word character limit. While that seems like a generous limit, it’s something you might hit given the length of federal resumes.

However, Segal keyed us in a great way to deal with that character limit: “There is a section in USAJobs called ‘additional information.’ This is a free form block of 20,000 characters.”

The additional information section is where you should put further details you weren’t able to fit in throughout the rest of the process. It’s also where you should put certifications or awards.

Professional Federal Resume Writers

Your third option is to hire a federal resume writer. Since federal resumes are so complex, having an expert help you can be a great asset. Many experts don’t just write your resume, they’ll teach you how to tailor your resume for each position you’re interested in or even show you the best ways to leverage the USAJobs resume builder.

Do thorough research when selecting resume writers . Levin cautions, “There are a lot of opinions out there about federal resumes. Take them with a grain of salt. Look at that person’s experience. Do they do this professionally or is this just their opinion? Be mindful of who’s telling you what and what their background is.”

Federal Resume Tips

• “Digitized company’s internal microfilm library of more than 5,000 files”
• “Steered company through a complicated re-organization, resulting in a 75% increase in profits with minimal employee turnover.”
• Use the same language as the JVA and occupational questionnaire
• Use Jobscan to match and optimize keywords
• Make your qualifications for the role straightforward and obvious
• Take advantage of how long federal resumes are expected to be (4-8 pages)
• Only list your responsibilities and not show measurable results
• Assume that anything about your prior experience is self-explanatory
• Include personal pictures such as a headshot
• Include personal information such as your SSN or hobbies
• Finally, we asked each expert what they thought some of the most important things federal job seekers should know:

Nancy Segal : “You have to understand the process. If you do the process right, you should consistently get to the hiring manager.”

Lex Levin : “Federal hiring is very much a marathon, not a sprint. It takes on average about a hundred and six days to go from application to onboarding, which is over three months. Many people wait longer than that. If you are getting referred [to the hiring manager], that means the resume is working for you – keep applying!”

Karol Taylor : “Don’t struggle with no results. Invest in your future, invest in yourself. This is your career, it’s your future, it’s worth the time and money.”

Useful Resources:

• USAJob’s resume writing video tutorial
• Pathways – recent grad federal job program
• Free virtual events from USAJobs including resume writing workshops
• AskFedWeek.com
• How to write executive core qualifications

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1 Federal Cover Letter Example

Federals are known for their meticulous attention to detail, adherence to regulations, and commitment to public service. Similarly, your cover letter should reflect these qualities, presenting a detailed account of your professional journey, showcasing your adherence to the job requirements, and demonstrating your dedication to the role. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Federals, helping you to craft a compelling narrative that resonates with recruiters.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Federal cover letter is by addressing the hiring manager directly, if their name is known. If not, use a formal salutation such as "Dear Hiring Manager." Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. It's also beneficial to mention where you found the job posting. This shows you're proactive and have a genuine interest in the position. Remember, Federal jobs often require a more formal tone than private sector jobs, so keep your language professional and clear.

Federals should end a cover letter by summarizing their interest in the position and expressing their eagerness to contribute to the organization. They should reiterate their key qualifications and how they align with the job requirements. It's also important to thank the hiring manager for their time and consideration. The closing should be professional and respectful. For example, "Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to your team and I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further." After the closing statement, they should include a formal sign-off such as "Sincerely" or "Respectfully," followed by their full name. It's also recommended to include their contact information below their name for easy reference.

A Federal cover letter should ideally be one page long. This length is sufficient to present your qualifications, skills, and experiences relevant to the job you are applying for without overwhelming the reader. Federal hiring managers often have to review many applications, so it's important to keep your cover letter concise and to the point. Make sure every sentence serves a purpose and contributes to demonstrating your suitability for the role. Remember, the goal of the cover letter is to entice the hiring manager to read your resume and consider you for the position.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a Federal can seem challenging, but it's definitely possible. Here's how you can approach it: 1. Research: Understand the role you're applying for and the agency. This will help you tailor your cover letter to their needs and values. 2. Introduction: Start with a strong opening paragraph that grabs the reader's attention. Mention the position you're applying for and where you found the job posting. 3. Highlight Transferable Skills: Even if you don't have direct federal experience, you likely have skills that are transferable. Highlight these in your cover letter. For example, if you're applying for a project management role, discuss any projects you've managed in the past, even if they were in a different industry. 4. Use Examples: Provide examples of your work that demonstrate your skills. This could be a project you completed, a problem you solved, or an initiative you led. 5. Show Enthusiasm: Express your interest in the role and the agency. This shows that you're motivated and eager to contribute. 6. Align with the Agency's Mission: Federal agencies often have specific missions or goals. Show how your personal or professional values align with these. 7. Professionalism: Remember to maintain a professional tone throughout your cover letter. This includes using formal language, proper grammar, and avoiding slang or casual phrases. 8. Closing: In your closing paragraph, thank the reader for their time and express your interest in the opportunity to interview for the position. 9. Proofread: Finally, make sure to proofread your cover letter for any errors before sending it. Remember, the goal of your cover letter is to show how your skills and experiences make you a good fit for the role, even if you don't have direct federal experience.

Related Cover Letters for Federals

Contract manager cover letter.

Procurement Cover Letter

Postal Service Cover Letter

Contractor Cover Letter

Program Manager Cover Letter

Federal Cover Letter

Related Resumes for Federals

Federal resume example.

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Tips for Applying for Federal Jobs

Follow the instructions in the “How to Apply” section of each announcement. Instructions will guide you through the application process, providing you detailed information on the questions, forms and format that must be addressed and used to capture your qualifications for the job.

The documents must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on the vacancy closing date. Warning: If you submit a document using the same document title, the 2nd submission will OVERWRITE the 1st submission. Also, do not upload password-protected documents.

Cover Letters are not mandatory and will not be used to verify experience, but may be submitted.

Resumes are required - provide a resume either by creating one in USAJOBS or uploading one from your computer and USAJOBS profile. To receive full consideration for relevant and specialized experience, please list the month, year, and the number of work hours worked for the experience listed on your resume.  We also suggest that you preview the vacancy questions, and confirm that your resume supports your question responses.

Unofficial Transcript(s) (in English) - If you are using education as a basis for qualifying for this position, you must submit all applicable academic transcripts demonstrating that you meet the qualifying educational requirements (ex. BA/BS, MA, JD, Ph.D., etc.).  If specific coursework is required to qualify, you must supply an unofficial transcript from each academic institution in which the required courses were taken in order to receive credit. If your education was completed at a foreign college or university, you must show comparability to education received in accredited educational institutions in the United States and comparability to applicable minimum course work requirements for this position. Learn more about Evaluation of Foreign Education .

More information regarding resumes (from Careers at DOL – Tips for Writing your Federal resume ):

One size never fits all. As you apply for jobs, tailor your resume to the position’s requirements. Study the job opportunity announcement and emphasize the parts of your work history that match the qualification requirements listed there. It is important to portray your knowledge and skills as a match to the requirements of the position and demonstrate the ability to do the job. This is easy to do when you include your results, achievements and accomplishments. Minimize the use of technical jargon or specialized terminology (e.g., military abbreviations) in your resume.

Unlike resumes used in the private sector, federal resumes require additional information. For each past job, give the standard information found in most resumes. Your federal resume should include the following:

• Job announcement number , job title , and job grade of the job for which you are applying
• Your full name , mailing address , day and evening phone numbers and home e-mail .
• Country of citizenship , if different from U.S.
• Veterans – Ensure that you attach or upload supporting documentation (e.g., DD214 or Statement of Service if still on Active Duty; SF-15, Application for 10-point preference; and Disability Rating Letter of 30% or more from the VA, if applicable).
• Peace Corps / AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteers – If you are a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, you will need to provide your Description of Service (DOS) to claim non-competitive eligibility for federal jobs. AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers
• Persons with Disabilities (Schedule A) – To verify eligibility for employment under the Schedule A hiring authority, you must provide proof of disability issued by a licensed medical professions, a licensed vocational rehabilitation specialist, or any federal agency, state agency, or an agency of the District of Columbia, or U.S. territory that issues or provides disability benefits. Contact the Department’s Selective Placement Coordinators for help with hiring and accommodation requests.
• Veterans – Keep in mind that your military training may count towards qualifications. Use your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document (DD Form 2586) to document your training and education.
• Begin with your current position and list all other positions held in chronological order.
• State the job title, starting and ending dates ( including month and year ), prior employer's name and address (or write "self-employed," if that applies), and major duties and accomplishments. Include any positions temporarily held.
• Show the average number of hours worked per week or simply state "full-time"; salary or wage earned; supervisor's name, address and telephone number; and whether your most recent supervisor may be contacted.
• Veterans - Avoid using military job titles or occupational codes. Instead, look at what you did using your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) as a starting point. Employers prefer proven performers, so make sure you know what employers are looking for in comparison to your military work experience.
• Indicate if your current supervisor can be contacted
• Job-related training courses (title and year).
• self-management skills refer to the way you manage yourself on the job (e.g., dependable, resourceful, etc.);
• functional skills are the skills you use on the job or have used in previous jobs (e.g., operate equipment, supervise, analyze, etc.); and
• technical skills relate to specific skills required to perform a described task (e.g., computer programming, accounting, sales, etc.)
• Current job-related certificates and licenses - Make sure you understand the licensure and certification requirements for your job objective.
• Job-related honors, awards, special accomplishments , leadership activities, memberships, or publications.

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How to write a federal cover letter?

If you are trying to apply for a government job, you probably have come across this question several times.

Federal government jobs are very lucrative. According to the U.S Bureau of Labour Statistics , federal job opportunities will grow by 6 million by 2029.

However, with these immense growth opportunities, there is enormous competition for federal jobs in the market.

To secure a federal job for yourself, you need to set yourself apart from the crowd.

And a cover letter for federal job can help you do that.

Writing a cover letter is already tricky for some of you!

But writing a federal resume cover letter can be a whole other story.

You need to keep a lot in mind when writing a cover letter for a federal government job.

Would you like to know how?

In this article, we show you:

• What is a federal government cover letter?
• A federal resume cover letter sample
• how to write a cover letter for a federal job?
• Federal cover letter formatting rules
• A checklist for writing a federal government cover letter
• 5 helpful tips to write a federal government cover letter

What is a Federal cover letter?

[ Back to Table of Content ]

A federal cover letter is a professional one-page letter that you need to create when applying for a US federal government job.

Your federal job cover letter will allow you to highlight your skills, experience, and accomplishments to the federal government employer and show them that you are the perfect fit for the job.

A federal government cover letter should not contain all the information on your resume, but it should elaborate the most relevant information about you succinctly.

Why do you need a federal cover letter?

Most federal resumes are one to two pages long and can not address the hiring manager directly. A recruiter only gets 7.4 seconds to look at your application.

A tailored federal cover letter can pique the recruiter’s attention and highlight your most relevant skills and accomplishments to the recruiter. A cover letter for federal job also is a tool to sell your skills to the organization and emphasize how you can benefit the organization.

Federal Cover Letter Sample

Here's a federal cover letter example for you:

Federal Cover Letter - Starting

Your cover letter for federal job is a professional letter. So it needs to follow the rules of a professional cover letter. These rules are : Start with a proper heading Ensure that your federal cover letter heading is appropriately formatted. Make sure this information are on the cover letter heading:

• Contact Number
• Residential location
• Linkedin Profile Link (If you have)
• Job title you are applying for
• Name of the hiring manager
• Title of the hiring manager
• Organization name

Use professional salutation

Your federal job cover letter is a professional letter. So make sure you are addressing the hiring manager professionally. For example:

• Dear Mr. Shaw,
• Dear Dr. Hobbs,
• Dear Ms Moore,

If you don’t know the name of the hiring manager, then you can simply address by,

• Dear Hiring Manager,

But do not use “ To whomever it may concern ,” It’s old school and does not pique the recruiter’s attention.

To know more, you can follow the “ How to address a cover letter ” guide.

Federal cover letter - Introduction

Hiring managers are already frustrated sorting and reading resumes and cover letters all day. Do not bore them further by writing a dull introduction to your federal resume cover letter.

Here are three powerful ways to start your federal cover letter with a bang:

• Start your cover letter mentioning your years of experience.
• Start your cover letter highlighting your professional accomplishments.
• If you are an entry-level professional, start your cover letter with academic achievements, referrals, awards, or anything relevant to the position.

Federal cover letter example - introduction:

10th January 2023 Ms. Carrie Woods Hiring Manager ABC LLC 81, Metro Lane, Colorado Springs, CO

RE: Market Administrator

Dear Ms. Woods, As 3 years experienced Market Administrator with a track record of successfully managing multiple projects with 100+ workers, I am adept at conceptualizing and implementing optimum process efficiency strategies. With a focus on deploying an in-depth understanding of project planning to Improve process efficiency, I am incredibly interested in the profile of Market Administrator at the Federal Agency Department

Note : This is a perfect example of a federal cover letter example. It starts with a powerful statement about your experience. Also, it successfully quantified your accomplishments.

Dear Hiring Manager, I have 3 years of experience in project management. I previously worked as a market administrator in the Federal Milk Distribution department, where I managed multiple projects successfully.

And I am incredibly interested in working with the Federal Agency Department .

Federal cover letter with no experience - example:

Dear Ms. Woods, I am an enterprising ocean conservation advocate pursuing a law degree from Loyola University, adept at legal research and legal writing. I have an excellent understanding of federal laws, including the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Marine Mammal Protection Act. I'm also skilled at the legislative process and advocating for policy changes.

Federal cover letter - Second paragraph

Your federal cover letter second paragraph should highlight your relevant professional experience. Also, do not use vague language to describe your accomplishments.

Be specific with your work experience and quantify your achievements wherever possible.

Furthermore, tailor your cover letter to the federal job you are applying for.

This process is easier than you think.

• Read the job description thoroughly.
• Highlight the responsibilities required for the federal job
• Match the skills and responsibilities with your current skills and experience in the cover letter

It shows the hiring manager that you have done your research and are interested in the job.

Additionally, if you have any career gap in the resume, a cover letter is the perfect opportunity to justify your career gap.

Federal Cover Letter Example- Second paragraph: Right:

In my last stint at the Federal Milk Distribution Department, I have successfully attended 100+ phone calls per month. Additionally, I have converted 300+ analog documents into digital prints and created catalogs by deploying Oracle systems. Apart from that, I was responsible for managing and scheduling meetings for 10+ staff members with 100% efficiency.

Note : Notice that this second paragraph successfully highlights the candidate's key accomplishments and entice recruiters to read the resume.

In my last job, I was responsible for attending calls, managing documents, and scheduling staff members’ meetings.I also have experience in Microsoft Excel and Oracle systems for document management.

Note : This example does not have anything that might pique the hiring manager’s interest to read your cover letter further.

Federal Cover Letter - Ending

You have successfully hooked the hiring manager till the end. Now it’s time to show the recruiter how much you want to work for the organization and end the letter with a powerful CTA.

All federal jobs are most glorious. It takes the right kind of professionals to excel in some jobs. So, you need to project your enthusiasm for the job at the end of your resume and let the recuriter know how much you love working.

Not only that, It's better to directly ask the recuriter for an interview.

However, do not be pushy or needy why asking for an interview like this:

• Please accept my candidature for an interview
• It would be great if you consider me for an interview.

Instead, write this:

• I would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person.

Federal cover letter Example - Ending:

Right : I thoroughly believe that my 3 years of experience in meeting scheduling, document preparation, and call handling can bring your organization success. Inspired by its collaborative working style that emphasizes teamwork, trust & tolerance, I consider the Federal Agency to be my most preferred employer.

Enclosed for your consideration is my resume. I’d appreciate the opportunity to further discuss my suitability and qualifications with you on call or in person. Sincerely,

David Johnson

Enclosures: Resume

Wrong : I think my 3 years of experience in meeting scheduling, document management, and call handling will bring success to your organization.

I look forward to hearing from you soon. Best, David Johnson

Note: This is not a proper ending for a federal cover letter. Firstly, you should not use a casual ending salutation in your federal cover letter. Secondly, it does not have a clear CTA to encourage the recruiter to take action. Refer to our federal government cover letter samples above to understand better.

Federal Cover Letter - Formatting

Writing the perfect federal cover letter is not all. To get noticed, you need to make sure that the cover letter is presented to the hiring manager properly.

So, make sure to format your federal cover letter well and proofread it before sending it to the hiring manager.

Here are a couple of tips to professionally format your federal cover letter:

No professional letter should stretch beyond one page. And you need to follow the same rule for your federal cover letter.

Use simple or clear fonts in your federal cover letter. It improves the readability and looks clean.

Some professional fonts are:

• Times New Roman

Note : Make sure to use a font size between 11-14 points

Make sure to have at least 1” margins on all sides of your federal cover letter. If the cover letter exceeds one page, you can shrink the margins to ½* or ¾*, not more than that.

Ensure that your federal cover letter has plenty of whitespaces. It improves readability and helps the cover letter get past the ATS system.

File format

Always send your cover letter in PDF format , not in JPEG, or PNG. Not even DOCS format.

It will help the hiring manager to sort your cover letter effortlessly.

Federal cover letter - Checklist

This checklist will help you write a federal cover letter for yourself.

• Your name, contact information, and location on the header
• Cover letter title
• Hiring manager's name
• Company name
• Company address
• First paragraph - better to start with your years of experience
• The second paragraph - Highlight your relevant key skills and achievements
• Third paragraph - Why you think this job is right for you
• Fifth paragraph - Call to action for an interview
• Closing salutation
• Enclosure - resume

Federal cover letter - Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to help you write a stellar federal cover letter.

Read the job description thoroughly

Usually, the job description contains all the information about the skills and responsibilities of a federal job. So, always read the job description carefully before writing the cover letter. It will Help you sort out the jobs to find the perfect fit job for you.

You can pick from the skills mentioned in the job descriptions and highlight them throughout your cover letter.

Also, many job descriptions have specific instructions for resumes and cover letters. If you do not read the job description, you will miss these essential instructions, and your resume will never get past the ATS system.

Research the Government agency

Every job is different, and each job takes the right mindset and love to excel in it. Your cover letter allows you to showcase that your skills and passion for the job lies with the government agency’s vision and mission.

For example, if you apply for an Environmental Specialist position, you can showcase your passion for the environment by mentioning some volunteer work you have done in the past.

Create specific cover letters for each job

Many candidates create generic cover letters for each job profile. But for a federal job, you need to tailor each cover letter for the specific job you are applying for. You can easily do this by creating a master cover letter. Whenever you need to apply for a job, tweak the master cover letter concerning the job description skills and responsibilities.

Keep your Federal Cover Letter to-the-point

The hiring manager only has a couple of seconds to look at your cover letter. So, make sure to keep your federal cover letter concise and to the point. Do not exceed one page, and try to wrap up your cover letter within 3-4 paragraphs.

Proofread your cover letters

Do not send your cover letter to the recruiter right away. Always proofread your cover letters and do a proper grammar and spelling check before sending it to the recruiters. It’s best to take expert opinion to create your federal cover letter before sending it to the recruiter.

Hiration Online Resume Builder Service can help you do that.

Online Resume Builder

These are the features of Online Resume Builder:

• Option to save unlimited resumes
• Intuitive next text suggestion
• Auto bold feature
• 20+ Cover letter designs
• LIVE resume score
• JD-resume matcher
• Full rich-text editor
• Unlimited PDF downloads
• 1-click design change
• A sharable link
• LIVE editor Go to our Online Resume Builder and choose from 20+ federal cover letter templates to create a professional cover letter for yourself!

Key Takeaways

With that, we have come to the end of this blog. Let’s see some of the key takeaways from the blog:

• Always format your federal cover letter professionally. Keep it on a single page, and ensure to have 1” margins on all sides.
• Start your cover letter introduction with a powerful statement such as your years of experience.
• Highlight your best achievements relevant to the job on the second paragraph of the cover letter and include keywords in this section
• Explain why you are the right fit for the job in the third paragraph
• Do some research on the organization and write something that matches your personality with the company mission in the last paragraph.
• End your cover letter for federal job with a CTA for an interview
• Do not forget to enclose your resume in the federal government cover letter.

If you want to create a federal cover letter, go to Hiration Resume Builder tool and choose from 20+ cover letter templates to create a professional federal cover letter for you.

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An official website of the United States government

Human Resources Specialist (NAF), NF-05

It is the applicant's responsibility to read all sections and associated links in this vacancy announcement. This vacancy may be used to fill additional positions within 90 days of the closing date. The Duty Station for this position is located at Fort Belvoir, VA. Telework is not guaranteed, however you may be eligible based on current agency policy.

• Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

08/01/2024 to 08/15/2024

$119,000 - $135,000 per year

Pay scale & grade

1 vacancy in the following location:

• Fort Belvoir, VA

Telework eligible

Yes—as determined by the agency policy.

Travel Required

Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.

Appointment type

Work schedule.

Competitive

Promotion potential

Job family (series).

0201 Human Resources Management

Supervisory status

Security clearance.

Not Required

Position sensitivity and risk

Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

Trust determination process

Suitability/Fitness

Financial disclosure

Bargaining unit status, announcement number.

NENAFCC2412499099

Control number

This job is open to.

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

Serves as action officer and subject matter expert in a variety of personnel areas in support of the world-wide DoD Nonappropriated Fund (NAF) personnel program. Researches, develops, and coordinates civilian personnel policies applicable to all DoD NAF civilian employees. Provides well grounded policy guidance, interpretation, and advisory assistance. Analyzes unprecedented problems or unique situations and recommends solutions to the Division Chief. Provides technical expertise in one or more specialized areas of DoD NAF personnel management including staffing, classification, overseas employment, and leave and attendance. Applies a broad, multifunctional knowledge of human resources management and administration laws, regulations, policies, programs, technologies, and practices. Represents the program to senior Defense Civilian Personnel Advisory Service and DoD Component staff. Initiates in-depth studies, analyzes practices, trends and law, recommends policy and procedure and when approved, promulgates the program. Ensures policy interface with other DoD programs and personnel policies as appropriate. Prepares and performs presentations and briefings. As required, evaluates Component human resources programs and/or performs assistance visits. Assists in the development and accomplishment of program goals and makes recommendations for improvements.

Requirements

Conditions of employment.

• Direct Deposit and Social Security Card are required upon appointment
• Meet qualification/eligibility/background requirements for this position to include a T1
• Satisfactory completion of employment verification (E-Verify) check
• One year probationary period may be required
• A valid passport may be required for overseas travel

Qualifications

Education is not required for this position and will not be utilized in determining minimum qualifications or as a substitution for experience unless indicated in the vacancy. If you would like for your education to be considered by the hiring panel as part of your overall accomplishments, you must attach copies of transcripts (online transcripts will be accepted). Only education from accredited and pre-accredited institutions will be accepted. Foreign education must be evaluated for equivalency in the United States. For more information, please click here .

Additional information

• A manual application may be obtained by contacting the servicing NAF Human Resources Office listed on this announcement. If you are applying manually, all required documentation must be received no later than 4:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on the closing date of the announcement. Additional selections may be made from this vacancy announcement for up to 90 days after the closing date.
• Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs may be authorized based upon eligibility and a determination that a PCS move is in the Government interest.
• Please check out our application information kit to view additional information you may find useful when applying for our jobs.
• The Duty Station for this position is located at Fort Belvoir, VA. Telework is not guaranteed, however you may be eligible based on current agency policy.
• Management may request a referral list of priority candidates first (Veteran, current/former NAF. and current eligible DoD APF).

Review our benefits

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Your experience is subject to evaluation and verification against the information in your resume. The numeric rating you receive is a self-assessment only and is based on your responses to the questionnaire. Do not overstate or understate your level of experience and capability. If a determination is made that you rated yourself higher than is supported by your resume, or if your resume lacks sufficient information, you will be rated accordingly or you may be considered ineligible.

As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

• Cover Letter
• DD-214/ Statement of Service
• Notification of Personnel Action for NAF Employees (DA Form 3434 or equivalent)
• Other Document not Listed
• Separation Notice (RIF)
• SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education .

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

Electronically https://www.usajobs.gov/ and search for announcement number NENAFCC2412499099. All documentation required in the vacancy must be submitted by 11:59 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, on the closing date of the announcement. It is the applicant's responsibility to ensure they allow an acceptable amount of time prior to the close of a vacancy to create a USA Jobs account and complete the application process. All times displayed in this vacancy are based upon Eastern Standard Time (EST).If you encounter technical difficulties which prevent you from applying, you must send an email to the agency contact listed on this vacancy, including screen shots which clearly display the error and time it occurred. Late applications are accepted on a case-by-case basis under limited circumstances.

Agency contact information

Referred applicants will be evaluated by a rating panel to determine the quality and extent of total accomplishments, experience, education, and/or certification. The top candidates will be forwarded to the hiring official for selection consideration and may undergo an interview and reference checks.

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

• Criminal history inquiries
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
• Financial suitability
• New employee probationary period
• Privacy Act
• Reasonable accommodation policy
• Selective Service
• Signature and false statements
• Social security number request

Required Documents

How to apply, fair & transparent.

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov . For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/802640900 . Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

Learn more about

Office of the Chief of Staff of the Army

• Committed to Service
• Enhancing Readiness
• Foundation of the Army culture

Visit our careers page

Learn more about what it's like to work at Office of the Chief of Staff of the Army, what the agency does, and about the types of careers this agency offers.

https://www.armymwr.com//

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An official website of the United States government

Financial Analyst

This is a public flyer to notify interested applicants of anticipated vacancies. Applications will NOT be accepted through this flyer. Interested applicants should review the "How to Apply" section of this flyer for more information on how to be considered. This flyer will be used as positions become available. There May or May Not be current open job opportunities. Please be sure to view all current vacancies and position requirements, on the ATEC's Civilian Career Job Board located here .

• Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

01/09/2024 to 12/31/2024

Total salary varies depending on location of position

Pay scale & grade

Many vacancies in the following locations:

• Fort Greely, AK
• Redstone Arsenal, AL
• Fort Huachuca, AZ
• Yuma Proving Ground, AZ
• Show more locations (4)
• Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD
• White Sands Missile Range, NM
• Fort Cavazos, TX
• Dugway Proving Ground, UT

Telework eligible

Yes—as determined by the agency policy.

Travel Required

25% or less - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.

Appointment type

Work schedule.

Competitive

Promotion potential

Job family (series).

0501 Financial Administration And Program

Supervisory status

Security clearance, position sensitivity and risk.

Noncritical-Sensitive (NCS)/Moderate Risk

Trust determination process

National security

Announcement number

CHAG339641063HDF

Control number

This job is open to.

U.S. Citizens, Nationals or those who owe allegiance to the U.S.

• Duties and responsibilities vary and may increase according to the grade level.
• To see the full duties of the position, please view the announcement on the ATEC Civilian Careers Job Board.

Requirements

Conditions of employment.

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• U.S. Citizenship is required.
• Position may be subject to random drug testing.
• A security clearance may be required.
• Total salary varies depending on location of position.

Qualifications

Additional information.

• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
• One year trial/probationary period may be required.
• Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
• Multiple Positions may be filled from this announcement.
• Information may be requested regarding the vaccination status of selectees for the purposes of implementing workplace safety protocols. For more information, visit https://www.saferfederalworkforce.gov/faq/vaccinations/ .

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new window Learn more about federal benefits .

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

As vacancies occur, the Human Resources Office will review your resume to ensure you meet the hiring eligibility and qualification requirements listed in this flyer. You will be rated based on the information provided in your resume, along with your supporting documentation. If, after reviewing your resume and/or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications and/or experience, you may lose consideration for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully when applying, errors or omissions may affect your eligibility. Veterans and Military Spouses will be considered along with all other candidates. If selected, you may be required to provide additional supporting documentation.

As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

• Your resume may be submitted in any format and must support the specialized experience.
• If your resume includes a photograph or other inappropriate material or content, it will not be used to make eligibility and qualification determinations and you may not be considered for this vacancy.
• For qualifications determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week and the dates of employment (i.e., HRS per week and month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application may be marked as incomplete and you may not receive consideration for this position.
• Cover Letter, optional
• Most recent Performance Appraisal, if applicable
• This position has an individual occupational requirement; you MUST submit a copy of your transcript with your application package, or you will be rated ineligible.

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education .

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

NOTE: There May or May Not be current open job opportunities. Please be sure to view all current vacancies and position requirements, on the ATEC's Civilian Career Job Board located here . Don't see what you're looking for on our job board? Please submit your information into our talent community. Your next opportunity is just a click away! We still want to consider your application. Submit your resume here !

Agency contact information

Eligible applicants will be referred to the hiring manager. The selecting official may choose to conduct interviews. Acknowledgement and Notice of Results letters will be sent by the hiring office. The evaluation will be based on the information you provide. You should expect that we will verify performance, suitability, and security information and take that information into account in making employment offers.

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

• Criminal history inquiries
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
• Financial suitability
• New employee probationary period
• Privacy Act
• Reasonable accommodation policy
• Selective Service
• Signature and false statements
• Social security number request

Required Documents

How to apply, fair & transparent.

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov . For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/769689100 . Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

Learn more about

U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command

Civilian employees serve a vital role in supporting the Army mission. They provide the skills that are not readily available in the military, but crucial to support military operations. The Army integrates the talents and skills of its military and civilian members to form a Total Army. The Army values diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, cultures and skills, which connects employees to organizations that are committed to building an inclusive work environment where they can contribute to their fullest potential. For additional information on direct hire opportunities with the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command please click here .

Visit our careers page

Learn more about what it's like to work at U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command, what the agency does, and about the types of careers this agency offers.

http://www.atecciviliancareers.com/

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🚀BOEM/BSEE's Monthly USAjobs/Federal Hiring Q&A (Aug 2024)🚀

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🚀 BOEM/BSEE’s Monthly USAjobs/Federal Hiring Q&A 🚀Hey future federal rockstars! 🌟 Ready to kick-start your journey into an exciting Federal career but feel overwhelmed by the maze of USAjobs.gov? 🌐 Does decoding complex federal job announcements feel like unraveling an ancient script? 📜 Curious about thriving in a federal agency or just want to know how the federal hiring process really works? 🤔 If you’re nodding yes, then this event is for you!🎉 Join us for an electrifying session where BOEM’s finest will shine a light on the federal hiring process, turning confusion into clarity! Our veteran recruiters and seasoned federal employees are ready to simplify the complexities and provide you with the inside scoop. 🕵️‍♂️📚✨ What to Expect:

Decode the Process: Uncover the mysteries behind different federal hiring authorities.

Standout Applications: Become a pro at assembling standout job applications.

Insider Tips: Get all your pressing questions answered by the experts. 💬 This is your golden opportunity to gain wisdom and advice from those in the know. Whether you’re just starting or looking to advance, this session will elevate your federal career dreams to new heights! 🚀🌈 Don’t let this golden ticket slip through your fingers! Embrace this moment and step into your federal career success story. The journey starts here – don’t miss out! 🎯Sign up now and take the first step towards an incredible federal career! See you there! 👋💼✨ 

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An official website of the United States government

Interdisciplinary

About the Position: This is a temporary position not to exceed 12 months with Headquarters, US Army Corps of Engineers, Directorate of Civil Works, located in Washington, DC. This announcement is for current, permanent Army employees that would like to be considered for time-limited promotion, reassignment or change to lower grade. External candidates may be eligible to apply under USAJOBS Announcement Number: CERA242244208753

• Accepting applications

Open & closing dates

08/02/2024 to 08/19/2024

The salary is for the Rest of the US (RUS) Pay Scale. The salary will be determined upon selection.

Pay scale & grade

2 vacancies in the following location:

• Anywhere in the U.S. (remote job)

Telework eligible

Not applicable, this is a remote position.

Travel Required

Occasional travel - You may be expected to travel for this position.

Relocation expenses reimbursed

Yes—You may qualify for reimbursement of relocation expenses in accordance with agency policy.

Appointment type

Temporary Promotion - 12 months

Work schedule

Competitive

Promotion potential

Job family (series).

0020 Community Planning

0101 Social Science

0110 Economist

0401 General Natural Resources Management And Biological Sciences

0801 General Engineering

0807 Landscape Architecture

0810 Civil Engineering

Supervisory status

Security clearance.

Not Required

Position sensitivity and risk

Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk

Trust determination process

Suitability/Fitness

Financial disclosure

Bargaining unit status, announcement number.

CERA242244208864

Control number

This job is open to.

Current federal employees of this agency.

Clarification from the agency

See "Who May Apply" in the "Qualifications" section for more information on who is eligible to apply for this position.

• Serves as senior water resources planner of the planning community practice for coordination and management of Civil Works activities.
• Provide expert advice to agency field activities on all matters pertaining to planning studies and evaluation of benefits.
• Serve as the facilitator for all planning actions for HQUSACE policy compliance processes within the Office of Water Project Review.
• Resolve policy issues and or /concerns in coordination with the divisions, directorates, Civil Works and Office of Management and Budget.
• Prepare and participate in briefings with Civil Works, Civil and Emergency operations, and the deputy commander on planning and policy issues for technical matters.

Requirements

Conditions of employment.

• Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
• Relocation/Recruitment incentive may be authorized
• Temporary promotions or reassignments may be extended up to a maximum of five years and may be made permanent without further competition.

Qualifications

• Current Department of Army Civilian Employees Applying on Time-Limited Assignments
• Oral Communication
• Planning and Evaluating
• Problem Solving
• Project Management

FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/ .

Additional information

• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
• You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
• One year trial/probationary period may be required.
• Direct deposit of pay is required.
• This position requires you to submit a Public Financial Disclosure Report (OGE 278) or a Confidential Financial Disclosure Report (OGE450) upon entry, and annually thereafter.
• Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
• If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
• This is a(n) 18 - Engineers and Scientists Career Field (CF) position.
• Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
• Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
• When you perform a Civilian Permanent Change of Station (PCS) with the government, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) considers the majority of your entitlements to be taxable. Visit https://www.dfas.mil/civilianemployees/civrelo/Civilian-Moving-Expenses-Tax-Deduction/ for more information.
• Permanent Change of Station (PCS) allowances may be authorized, subject to the provisions of the Joint Travel Regulations and an agency determination that a PCS move is in the Government Interest.
• Position may be filled as a time-limited promotion, reassignment or change to lower grade not to exceed (NTE) 12 months by a current permanent Army employee. Time-limited promotions may be extended up to a maximum of five years. Time-limited reassignments and changes to lower grade may exceed five years; however, return rights may be impacted. Position may be made permanent without further competition.
• If applicable, returns rights may be negotiated upon selection. If return rights are approved, a return rights agreement/statement of understanding will be required to be completed prior to appointment.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new window Learn more about federal benefits .

Review our benefits

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

How You Will Be Evaluated

You will be evaluated for this job based on how well you meet the qualifications above.

Once the announcement has closed, a review of your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) will be used to determine whether you meet the qualification requirements listed on this announcement. If you are minimally qualified, your resume and supporting documentation will be compared against your responses to the assessment questionnaire to determine your level of experience. If, after reviewing your resume and/or supporting documentation, a determination is made that you have inflated your qualifications and/or experience, you may lose consideration for this position. Please follow all instructions carefully when applying, errors or omissions may affect your eligibility. You should list any relevant performance appraisals and incentive awards in your resume as that information may be taken into consideration during the selection process. If selected, you may be required to provide supporting documentation. You may claim Military Spouse preference. Military Spouse Preference (MSP) applicants will receive preference consideration and will be placed (if selected) at the highest grade for which they have applied and are determined best qualified, up to and including the full performance level. You may claim Priority Placement Program (PPP) preference. Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP). If you are a Federal employee in the competitive service and your agency has notified you in writing that you are a displaced employee eligible for ICTAP consideration, you may receive selection priority for this position. To receive selection priority, you must: (1) meet ICTAP eligibility criteria (2) be rated well-qualified for the position and; (3) submit the appropriate documentation to support your ICTAP eligibility. To be considered well-qualified and receive selection priority applicants must satisfy all qualification requirements for the position and receive a score of 90 or above. Additional information about the program is on OPM's Career Transition Resources website .

As a new or existing federal employee, you and your family may have access to a range of benefits. Your benefits depend on the type of position you have - whether you're a permanent, part-time, temporary or an intermittent employee. You may be eligible for the following benefits, however, check with your agency to make sure you're eligible under their policies.

• Your resume may be submitted in any format and must support the specialized experience described in this announcement.
• If your resume includes a photograph or other inappropriate material or content, it will not be used to make eligibility and qualification determinations and you may not be considered for this vacancy.
• For qualifications determinations your resume must contain hours worked per week and the dates of employment (i.e., HRS per week and month/year to month/year or month/year to present). If your resume does not contain this information, your application will be marked as incomplete and you will not receive consideration for this position.
• For additional information see: What to include in your resume .
• Cover Letter, optional
• Most recent Performance Appraisal, if applicable
• Proof of Eligibility to Apply: Your application must include the documents which prove you are eligible to apply for the vacancy. The Proof of Eligibility document describes authorities commonly used in merit promotion recruitment and what document(s) are required to prove you meet the requirements of the authority. You must meet the requirements of at least one of the authorities listed in the Who May Apply section above to receive further consideration.
• Time-in-grade documentation: If you are applying for a higher grade and your SF-50 has an effective date within the past year, it may not clearly demonstrate you meet the one year time-in-grade requirement so you will need to provide an SF-50 which clearly demonstrates you meet the time-in-grade requirements (examples of appropriate SF-50s include Promotions, Within-grade Grade/Range Increases, and SF-50s with an effective date more than one year old).
• This position has an individual occupational requirement and/or allows for substitution of education for experience. If you meet this requirement based on education you MUST submit a copy of your transcript with your application package or you will be rated ineligible. See: Transcripts and Licenses
• This position requires a job-related license or certification. You MUST submit a copy of your license or certification with your application package or you will be rated ineligible. See: Transcripts and Licenses

If you are relying on your education to meet qualification requirements:

Education must be accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education in order for it to be credited towards qualifications. Therefore, provide only the attendance and/or degrees from schools accredited by accrediting institutions recognized by the U.S. Department of Education .

Failure to provide all of the required information as stated in this vacancy announcement may result in an ineligible rating or may affect the overall rating.

• To begin, click Apply to access the online application. You will need to be logged into your USAJOBS account to apply. If you do not have a USAJOBS account, you will need to create one before beginning the application ( https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12498864 ).
• Follow the prompts to select your resume and/or other supporting documents to be included with your application package. You will have the opportunity to upload additional documents to include in your application before it is submitted. Your uploaded documents may take several hours to clear the virus scan process.
• After acknowledging you have reviewed your application package, complete the Include Personal Information section as you deem appropriate and click to continue with the application process .
• You will be taken to the online application which you must complete in order to apply for the position. Complete the online application, verify the required documentation is included with your application package, and submit the application. You must re-select your resume and/or other documents from your USAJOBS account or your application will be incomplete.
• It is your responsibility to verify that your application package (resume, supporting documents, and responses to the questionnaire) is complete, accurate, and submitted by the closing date. Uploaded documents may take up to one hour to clear the virus scan.
• Additional information on how to complete the online application process and submit your online application may be found on the USA Staffing Applicant Resource Center .

Agency contact information

If you provided an email address, you will receive an email message acknowledging receipt of your application. Your application package will be used to determine your eligibility, qualifications, and quality ranking for this position. If you are determined to be ineligible or not qualified, your application will receive no further consideration.

The Federal hiring process is set up to be fair and transparent. Please read the following guidance.

• Criminal history inquiries
• Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Policy
• Financial suitability
• New employee probationary period
• Privacy Act
• Reasonable accommodation policy
• Selective Service
• Signature and false statements
• Social security number request

Required Documents

How to apply, fair & transparent.

This job originated on www.usajobs.gov . For the full announcement and to apply, visit www.usajobs.gov/job/803092500 . Only resumes submitted according to the instructions on the job announcement listed at www.usajobs.gov will be considered.

Learn more about

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Looking for a great place to work? The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is one of the best! In 2020, USACE ranked #2 of government large-agency subcomponent! USACE is one of the world's premier public engineering, design, and construction management agencies. We serve the American people, striving to provide the most effective engineering and environmental science solutions to the nation's complex problems affecting national security, the economy and the environment in which we live. USACE offers a team-inspiring and collaborative work environment; providing challenging and rewarding careers across a variety of disciplines. We rely on leaders with vision, creativity, and programmatic and technical expertise to lead us into the future. Align your talents with your passion and find out why the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers is a great place to work! The Army values diversity of perspectives, backgrounds, cultures and skills, which connects employees to organizations that are committed to building an inclusive work environment where they can contribute to their fullest potential.

Visit our careers page

Learn more about what it's like to work at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, what the agency does, and about the types of careers this agency offers.

https://www.usace.army.mil/Careers//

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Virtual or in-person appointments and Career Chats in the Career Cube will be available throughout the summer. Suit-A-Bull is open by appointment only . 

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Navigating USAJOBS & Introduction to Federal Resume Writing (29 AUG 2024)

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Army Civilian Careers invites you to participate in a virtual informational session on federal resume writing, navigating USAJOBS website, including paid internships and fellowships in the federal government. We are a values-based community of nearly 300,000 federal civilian employees, much like those in other U.S. Federal Agencies, e.g., State, NASA, Commerce, Justice, and Education. These are strictly civilian positions. Applying for employment on USAJOBS can be a challenging process, but we are here to help! In this session we will walk through the application process to include the questionnaire, discuss resume formats, preferences, required documents to include, and how to align your experience with the job qualifications. This class is designed specifically to help you develop your federal resume and address key areas in the job announcement to make you an eligible applicant. In this session we will cover:  The Army Student Intern Program  The Army Fellows Program  How to create a USAJOBs account Applying for federal jobs  How to navigate USAJOBS Application announcement information – what the words really mean.  Beginning steps to writing a federal resume Note: This session will be conducted via MS Teams, and you will need to download the application to view the session in its entirety. It is not recommended to utilize cellphone unless able to view the slide presentation. 

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