The United States government is one of the largest employers in the world. There are many different agencies and departments that make up the federal government, and each one has its own hiring process. It can be difficult to know where to start when looking for a job with the federal government.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best places to start looking for federal jobs, how to apply, and what to expect from the hiring processes. By the end, you’ll have a much better idea about whether a government job is right for you and, if so, how to pursue one.
Why You Should Work for the Federal Government
There are many reasons to work for the United States government. Perhaps the most obvious reason is that jobs in government come with stability and job security. The federal government is one of the largest employers in the United States, and it is not going anywhere anytime soon. With a steady job, you can rest assured that your family will be taken care of.
Another reason to work for the federal government is the generous benefits package that comes with the job. Federal employees receive health, dental, vision, and life insurance, among other benefits. Employees also receive paid vacation, sick days, and holidays. The federal government also offers a variety of job training programs to help you get up to speed when needed.
Finally, working for the federal government provides an opportunity to serve your country and make a difference in people’s lives. The federal government is always looking for talented and dedicated employees who are passionate about making a difference. If that describes you, then working for the federal government may be the perfect fit for you.
What Jobs Are Available in the Federal Government
There is a wide variety of federal jobs available. Although many require a college degree, not all do. When beginning your job search and considering federal employment, keep the following jobs in mind:
- Administrative Assistant
An administrative assistant is a person who provides support to a company or organization. This includes tasks such as managing schedules, organizing files, and handling correspondence. The job can be very demanding, but it can also be very rewarding.
- Financial Analyst
A financial analyst is a professional who helps people make sound financial decisions. They assess the current financial situation of a company and then provide recommendations on how to improve it. Financial analysts are highly sought after by the government.
- Human Resource Specialist
An HR specialist is responsible for the management of employee records and the provision of support services to employees. They may also be responsible for the recruitment and selection of employees, and the development and implementation of personnel policies. This job is also in high demand for the government.
- Information Technology Specialist
An information technology (IT) specialist is a person who is responsible for the management of computer systems and networks in a company or organization. They may also be responsible for the development and implementation of policies related to information technology.
- Lawyer
A lawyer is a professional who helps people resolve legal disputes. Lawyers who work with the government have one of the most in-demand jobs in the government. Lawyers must have a strong understanding of the law, and they must be able to communicate effectively with clients and judges.
- Programmer
Programmers play a vital role in the development of computer software. They design, test, and debug programs that allow computers to function properly. They also work with other members of a team to ensure that they complete all aspects of a project on time and within budget.
You can learn more about the most in-demand jobs as well as high-paying jobs in the federal government in our article, “How To Find the Best Jobs in Government You Actually Want.”
How to find jobs in the federal government
There are two primary websites that allow you to search for government jobs and apply once you create a profile: USAJOBS.gov and CareersInGovernment.com.
We’ll go over the similarities and differences in the following sections.
USAJOBS.gov
USAJOBS.gov is the official website of the United States federal government. It is a great resource for finding government jobs in USA announcements in all sectors of the government, including civilian, military, and postal service jobs.
You can search by keyword or browse by agency. The website also includes detailed information about each job listing, such as qualifications and salary range.
CareersInGovernment.com
The CareersInGovernment.com website is a great resource for finding jobs in the federal government. Like USAJOBS.gov, it includes detailed information about each job listing, such as qualifications and salary range. It also allows you to create a profile and apply for jobs directly on the website.
How to Apply for Federal Jobs
When you find a job that you are interested in, you can apply online through USAJOBS.gov or CareersInGovernment.com. The job application process is simple and takes only a few minutes to complete.
To apply for a job, you’ll need to create a profile on either site. This is a free and simple process. You will need to provide your name, address, phone number, email address, Social Security number, and education history.
You will also be asked to answer some questions about your work experience and skill set. Be sure to carefully read the job listing before completing your application so that you can highlight how your qualifications match the job requirements.
Part-time Community Services Leader III - Disability Services
SAFETY REPRESENTATIVE, CONSULTATION - Underfill
Environmental Health Specialist II (Kingman, AZ)
Federal Hiring Processes
The Interview
After you submit your application, a hiring manager will review it. If you are selected for an interview, a member of the human resources department will contact you to schedule a time and date. The interview will usually take place in person, but they may also conduct it over the phone or via Skype.
Interview Questions
During the interview, you will be asked questions about your experience and qualifications. You don’t want to simply read your resume to the interviewer. Try to frame your answers in the form of a short story in which you highlight your experience and strengths in answer to the questions.
Behavioral questions are commonplace and you should be prepared to answer some. Some of the most common interview questions are:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Tell me about a time you had to make a difficult decision.
- What is your greatest strength?
- What is your greatest weakness?
- What is your greatest accomplishment? Why?
Be sure to answer these questions honestly and confidently. Practice answering these questions before your interview until your answers are smooth and concise. You want to present yourself as confident, not arrogant.
Receiving a Job Offer
If you receive a job offer, you will be asked to complete a background check and drug test. Once the results return for these items and as long as the results are acceptable, you will receive a start date and instructions on how to complete the onboarding process.
Your Government Career
If you’re looking for a career that offers stability, good pay, and opportunities for growth, consider a job with an official government organization. Federal jobs are in high demand, and there are many different positions to choose from. From federal agencies like the FBI to the United States Postal Service, the employment opportunities with the government vary as widely as the job applicants themselves.
The process of finding and applying for a federal job can seem daunting, but with the right resources, it’s easy to get started. Official websites like USAJOBS.gov and CareersInGovernment.com are secure websites where you can perform job searches for open positions and apply online when you find the right fit for you.
The United States government offers various positions and careers paths with plenty of room for growth. With its stable economy and generous benefits package, the federal government is an excellent place to build a lifelong career.
Want new articles before they get published? Subscribe to our Awesome Newsletter.
CAREER ADVICE
GOV TALK
