A Guide to Federal Job Requirements: Government Jobs Require More Than Just Job Skills
A completed application, your resume, and additional skills or professional certification documentation are the basic requirements when applying for a federal job. But there are other federal job requirements not related to job skills. These range from age and U.S. citizenship requirements to concerns like a criminal background or security clearance. The federal government has detailed policies and procedures to address these issues. Here is a quick overview:
AGE REQUIREMENT
The minimum entry age requirement to apply for most federal jobs is age 18. However, 16-year-olds can apply if they meet any one of these situations: graduated from high school or possesses an equivalent certificate, completed a formal vocational training program, received a statement from school authorities stating employment is preferred over education, or is under a formal student employment program.
Some federal job positions also have a maximum entry age requirement. To start a law enforcement career with the federal government, for instance, the maximum entry age requirement is between 34 and 37 years old, depending on the agency.
SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBER REQUIREMENT
A Social Security Number is required to apply for a federal job. If you are a U.S. citizen and do not have a Social Security Number or have lost it, contact your local Social Security Administration for information.
U.S. CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT
Most federal positions require U.S. citizenship. However, some government agencies permit the hiring of non-citizens through a special hiring process. Non-U.S. citizens should contact the government agency where they are seeking employment and inquire about eligibility.
CRIMINAL RECORD CONCERNS
Ex-offenders are welcome to apply to federal government jobs. Your criminal conduct will be reviewed to determine its relevancy to the job for which you are applying. There are regulations that, depending on your criminal activity, prohibit you from working in certain federal jobs.
SECURITY CLEARANCE CONCERNS
Some federal positions require security clearance. This is done at the time a job offer is made to you. The offer would be contingent upon security clearance approval. The federal agency in which you will be working will request the appropriate investigation and provide security clearance accordingly.
