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Government JOBSearch Guide for inside tips:

• How do I find a  government job?

• Which jobs are advertised? 

• Which agencies pay more? 

• Why should I visit a government website? 

• How do I have the agency notify me of job openings?

• Where do I find test locations and test dates?

• Which key words do I use on my application?

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Government Jobs
How to Apply

1. Government Jobs - Overview
2. Government JOBSearch^TM - Job Listings, Links and Databases 
3. How to Apply for a Government Job 

• What is the importance of the job bulletin?
• Application & Resume Success Tips
• Application & Resume Success Keywords

1. Getting Hired - Civil Service Exams and Tests
2. Your Government Job Benefits  

Find & analyze job announcements, writing federal resumes, and package resumes to meet both Federal and vacancy announcement criteria

"Include as many key words as possible in the Duties & Responsibilities section of the announcement.  The average length of a Federal Resume is 3-4 pages."

"The Evaluation Criteria are called: "KSAs" (Knowledges, Skills and Abilities). . . . These KSAs are mandatory"

What is the importance of the job bulletin?
The job bulletin (also called the announcement or notice) provides an overview of the responsibilities of the job, salary, and the key qualifications required to perform the job.  The job bulletin specifies how to apply for the job and where to submit your application.

Each agency will either require you to submit their application form or a resumes.  Click here for general resume guides, resume guides for specific jobs, and guides for completing your government job application.

Application & Resume Success Tips

1. Review the job bulletin and circle key dates - open date, close date and test date.  The open date is the first date applications are accepted.  The close date is the last date that applications are accepted.  The bulletin may specify that the job is continuous or open until filled, in which case the job will close at a date to be determined by the agency.  The test date is the date the test will be given.
2. Review the job bulletin and circle the type of application required.  A supplemental application is in addition to the regular application and requires additional information in a question and answer format or in an essay format.  Obtain electronic versions of the application and if required, the supplemental application.  If electronic versions are not available, ask for at least two to three copies of the application and the supplemental application.
3. Review the job bulletin and underline the main duties.   If available, also underline the selection or test criteria.
4. In some instances, a job description or specification may be available from the personnel or human resources office or online at the agency's website.  The job description or specification provides you with a more detailed statement of the job duties.
5. Prepare your application to emphasize your qualifications and experience that most closely match the main duties and selection criteria.
6. Make sure that your application addresses the minimum requirements of the position.
7. Try to use the same keywords and phrases, but don't copy everything verbatim.
8. Watch those gaps in your work history.
9. Proof and review your application.  Spell check if you have an electronic application.
10. A number of agencies award points to veterans.  If you're eligible for a veteran's credit, claim it.  Make sure you submit the necessary forms or documentation.

Application & Resume Key Words

Use action words and positive words when completing your application.  Here's just a sampling:

Step 4 - Getting Hired for a Government Job