Introduction to your federal job search
There are numerous websites to pay special attention to when looking for a federal job, but the most important place to start is the federal government’s own site for this in US jobs. It is a free site that allows you to create an account and apply for jobs using your block-by-block online resume. This site lists the most federal jobs in all departments. For example, it includes the Department of Defense, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Homeland Security, etc. It’s a good place to check-in every day, but it’s by no means the ONLY place to stay in the know. You should also try to target the specific agency that has the types of positions that interest you and for which you qualify.
There are many options for looking for jobs in the US, and you should experiment with all of them. It is better to really play around with the site so that you understand the best way to use it. You can learn more about the Job Series by checking the federal dot net jobs / occupations. Searching for your preferred series allows you to create an agent. The agent will send you an email each time a position is opened in your range of interest. It saves you some work, but I still recommend that you check the site every day for yourself.
An important note that I would like to say here is to ignore what you hear other people say about applying for federal positions. Just because a person had a bad experience does not mean that you will have a bad experience. You just need to be smart about it and read the articles on this site that will guide you through the process. I have applied for and obtained three successful federal jobs and have been interviewed for many others. Obviously the process works, but some will try to discourage you from the start by saying things like “you have to meet someone to get a government job these days” or “unless you’re a veteran, you won’t.” even take a second look. “While using their network might be helpful, it’s not the ONLY way to get hired. And veterans get preemption, but once you’re in the system, you get preemption after a year, too.
Another thing people will complain about is the KSA. These are the knowledge, skills and abilities. They are reduced to short essays that describe your experience in a certain area. It’s not a big deal, but it would be helpful, if you absolutely hate writing and know you don’t do it right, to get help from someone who can. People get upset about this, but with a little guidance, it doesn’t have to be so painful.
As with any job search, it’s always easier to look for a job when you already have a job. If you are unemployed and waiting to join the federal service, you may want to get something that will hold you back for a few months while you apply for all the government jobs you think you qualify for remotely. It is estimated that it will take up to 6 months to be hired. It took me a whole year to start my second federal job. Don’t be discouraged, but be mindful and plan ahead for your finances. Stay tuned for more posts as I guide you through the federal application process step by step.