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How can I get a job in the Federal Government?

How tough is it to get a job with the federal government?

  • Since the government isn't competive, I'm sure they can place some high standards for their potentials. Anyone here work for the government (with a college degree)? What ...show more

  • Answer:

    Hail is a fool. Not sure what you mean by isn't competitive but getting a fed job is very competitive and standards are very high. A fed job is like any other job, it's what you make of it. The key is to read the job announcement and the application process VERY carefully and follow instructions EXACTLY. Start with USAJOBS.gov. Some agencies use their own application process. Some require an on-line "resume." Some allow cut and paste and some require a long list of questions. Just make sure whatever format you submit that your skills, experience and education match or exceed what the announcement asks for. Use the terminology the announcement uses. Virtually all applications are screened by HR people who will have little or no knowledge of the job, it's terminology, or the industry. They are looking for key words and numbers. Follow directions exactly. Submit everything requested. And be prepared to wait. The fed is like any other employer. Sometimes they know who they want to hire, but they must follow strict procedure. Some managers can manipulate the process but this is fairly rare. "Who you know" doesn't usually come into play until the higher, appointment positions. Just read carefully, follow exactly and be persistent.

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There are many different departments and divisions with the federal government that offer opportunities for college graduates. One of the largest employers is the Department of Defense, which employs civilians in almost every aspect of its support operations for all branches of the armed forces. Each division generally has their own standards for hiring personnel, subject only to standard federal regulations for the practice. In most cases it would be just like any job application--your qualifications will be the number one factor in the determination of your eligibility and acceptance. Finding a job that you are qualified to do, as well as want to do, is the tricky part. The best internet resource available is USAJobs.com, the federal governments' official jobs site, which provides listings of job openings. Keep in mind that a lot of times a listed job opening is simply a formality--in all likelihood the department has already decided who will fill the position, but legally they must make a public offering. You can keep resumes on file and submit them for various listings, as well as search through the database and a variety of links for research and assistance. The difficulty isn't in finding a job with the federal government, especially if you want to be a cook in the diner of a cafe in the bowling alley of a Naval base. The hard part is attempting to find something that matches your interest. After that, a little bit of research will let you know how to go about applying. Some divisions require the civil service exams, and some don't. Some require security clearances, etc.... The pay is usually competitive with similiar industry jobs, and many times your pay scale is adjusted based on your qualifications and experience. The benefits are good, too, and there are packages for insurance and retirement that are available to all federal employees. Most people dislike the bureaucracy, but enjoy the actual work and pay.

BES

If you're serious, make political connections. I worked for government for six years and one thing I can tell you is that your chance of getting into a gvt position is next to nothing unless you know somebody. You're right about the "isn't competetive" part, but not the way you think... The standards are not high, it's all about who you know.

hail_loki

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