There are a variety of ways to apply for a government job. In all cases, the first step is to review current openings. Then you can decide which jobs are of interest and follow the instructions on how to apply.

How to Apply for a Federal Government Job

The USAJOBs web site has an online Resume Builder. Users can create online resumes specifically designed for applying for Federal jobs. Resumes created on the USAJOBS resume builder can be printed from the system for faxing or mailing to employers; and saved and edited for future use.

For many of the vacancies listed on the site, job seekers can submit resumes created through USAJOBS directly to hiring agencies through an electronic submission process.

Regardless of the format you choose, you will need to include certain information in addition to the specific information requested in the job vacancy announcement:

Job Information

Announcement Number, Title and Grade(s)

Personal Information

Full Name, Mailing Address, Zip Code, Phone Numbers (day and evening)

Social Security Number

Country of Citizenship - in most cases you will need to be a U.S. Citizen

Veterans' Preference - if you are a veteran

Reinstatement Eligibility - if you have a previous worked for the federal government

Highest Federal civilian grade held

Education

High School - Name, Address, Zip Code, date of diploma/GED

College/University - Name, Address, Zip Code, Degree(s), and Major(s)

List credits earned if you did not graduate

Work Experience 

For each job: 

Job Title (include series and grade if Federal job)

Duties and Accomplishments

Employer's Name and Address

Supervisor's Name and Phone Number

Note whether your current supervisor can be contacted

Start and End Dates (Month/Year - Month/Year)

Hours Per Week, Salary

Other Qualifications 

Job-related training courses (give title and year)

Job-related skills (other languages, computer software/hardware, tools, machinery, typing speed, etc.)

Job-related certificates and licenses (current only)

Job-related honors, awards, and special accomplishments (publications, memberships in professional/honor societies, leadership activities, public speaking, and performance awards)

Give dates, but do not send documents unless requested.

Double-Check Your Submission

Carefully review your application to make sure that you have incorporated all the information required in the job announcement.  If your resume or application does not provide all the information requested on this form and in the job vacancy announcement, you may lose consideration for a job.  Proofread your document for spelling and grammatical errors. 

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