FEDERAL FITNESS: Did you know you could intern
and work for the Federal Government?
Ten Steps to the Federal Job Search
Do you know what to expect when applying for Federal Jobs? Navigating the federal job search can be very time consuming and confusing; however, with the right tools and steps the process can run very smoothly. Here are ten steps worth taking in order to land a federal job, which often results in good pay, benefits, stability and career growth. Any student can apply for a federal job or internship, you just need to be prepared! (Tips from : Troutman, K, &Toutman E. (2004) The student's federal career guide: 10 Steps to find and win top government jobs and internships. Baltimore, MD. The Resume Place, Inc.) - which can be found in the Career Services Resource Center.
1. Network: Think about this statement, “They can’t hire you if they don’t know who you are. They can’t hire you if you don’t know who they are.” Start talking to friends and family who may have contacts in the federal government. Furthermore, contact individuals who hold federal jobs and ask to conduct an informational interview.
2. Find your agency and job title: Know what job titles are correct for you. There are approximately 75 majors matching 450 job titles and agencies. Related information can be found in the Career Services’ Resource Center.
3. Internships: A federal internship can be your ticket to a federal career. More than 100 different intern programs are identified in the following web site: www.studentjobs.gov/d_internship.asp. Many of these positions are paid. Also be aware that there are Fellowship Programs as well. Use the Searching Studentjobs.gov tipsheet.
4. Understanding Federal Jobs-Target Your Salary and Grade: The federal civil service has different grading and pay structures for its professional and trade workforces. It is important for you to know what categories you fall into when applying for jobs. Related information can be found in the Career Services’ Resource Center.
5. Find Vacancy Announcements: Locating a vacancy announcement for which you are qualified can be like finding gold! Find an agency and office whose mission is right for you. A great place to start researching is www.usajobs.gov. Use the Searching USAJobs.gov tipsheet.
6. Write Your Federal Resume: Your federal resume is your federal application. This is the most important document you will write and submit for a federal job. Also, beware that a federal resume is not the same as a private industry resume. Related information and samples can be found in the Career Services’ Resource Center and www.tenstepsforstudents.org. Check out the differences between a Federal vs. Private Industry Resume.
7. Write KSAs and Cover Letters: KSA is an acronym for “Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities.” They are narrative statements written by the applicant that reflect successful performance in their background. Cover letters should be limited to one page, and should be well-written and express your appreciation for a review of your resume.
8. Apply for Federal Jobs: There are more than 50 ways to apply for federal jobs; therefore, it is imperative that you follow the directions of each individual vacancy announcement.
9. Track and Follow up: Asking questions, gaining information, developing relationships, and becoming known are a helpful part of the application process.
10. Interview for a Federal Job: The federal government uses many different approaches to interviewing. Please use Career Services to assist you in understanding these approaches and preparing for your interviews.
For further assistance:
- Schedule an appointment with a Career Advisor.
- Explore www.makingthedifference.org. Your source for Federal Jobs
& Internships. Where to find them. And how to get them.
