Six Steps to a Federal Job or Internship

Step 1: Search for Jobs and Internships on USAJOBS

  • USAJOBS is the central website for finding and applying for federal positions
  • Click on Students & Recent Graduates to find positions in Pathways Program (government program to help students and recent graduates find positions)
  • Scroll down to "Begin your search." Choose either Search internship or Search recent graduates jobs
  • Refine your search criteria by typing in the Keywords and/or Location or Remote fields at the top of the page; adjust search criteria as needed depending on results
  • Note: "Public Notice Flyer" in the job title means that you do not apply for this job on the USAJOBS website; follow the specific instructions on how to apply
  • Allow time for your federal job search as it often takes longer than searching traditional websites

Step 2: Review the Job Opportunity Announcement (JOA)

  • JOA = job description; read the details carefully to determine if you are qualified; necessary qualifications are clearly stated
  • Volunteer work counts as experience; do not undersell your experience but be truthful
  • Read several JOAs to be familiar with the language
  • Applying early is important; the ’Open Period’ sometimes closes early depending on volume of résumés received
  • How you will be evaluated is explicit in JOA, and is based on your experience level as described in your résumé, supporting documents*, and self-assessment questionnaire* (*occasionally requested)

Step 3: Set Up/Manage Your Account

  • Create a free account in order to save search criteria, save favorite jobs, or apply for jobs
  • Once you create a username and password, you can fill out your profile, build a federal résumé, upload requested documents (e.g., DD-214, transcripts), and check the status of your applications

Step 4: Create Your Federal Résumé(s)

  • Federal résumés differ from traditional résumés; follow guidelines below
  • Use the Build New Résumé link in your account to create a federal résumé tailored to the position
  • Always build your résumé on USAJOBS; never upload your own résumé

Step 5: Apply for Jobs/Internships

  • Submit all necessary supporting documents (always online when possible)
  • Read JOA carefully; follow ALL directions, as applications that deviate from directions will not be considered
  • The earlier you submit your application within the open period, the more likely it will be reviewed
  • Applications are read and evaluated by real people; most qualified applications are passed to hiring manager

Step 6: Keep Track of Progress

  • Keep track of your application status in your USAJOBS account
  • Status will change if your application has been referred to a hiring manager

Creating a Federal Résumé

Helpful Hints

  • Build your résumé on USAJOBS; never upload your résumé
  • Use the JOA to tailor each résumé by using specific language, keywords, and qualifications listed in JOA
  • Highlight your KSAAs (Knowledge, Skills, Abilities, and Accomplishments
  • Use keywords to outline résumé
  • Do NOT focus on unique design; focus on meeting qualifications and having key information from JOA

How a Federal Résumé is Different

  • Formatting: Use keywords in ALL CAPS to start brief paragraphs; no bullet points
  • Additional Information: Include previous supervisors and previous salaries
  • Length: Usually 3–5 pages

Similarities to Traditional Résumé

  • Focus: Highlights most relevant accomplishments
  • Target: Tailored to a specific job
  • Order: Uses reverse chronological order within sections