Getting A Federal Government Job: How the Federal Hiring Process Works
Too much red tape and mounds of paperwork are the two main reasons why people don’t apply for federal jobs. But thanks to the Internet, these roadblocks have been removed and, as a result, the federal hiring process is much more streamlined. So here is the new and improved federal hiring process.
The federal hiring process is based on the class assigned to the position. The two categories are Competitive Civil Service and Excepted Service. Competitive Civil Service jobs have more stringent requirements in the hiring process as dictated by civil service laws passed by the U.S. Congress. These laws are aimed at ensuring that all applicants receive fair and equal treatment during the hiring process. As such, more attention is given to make certain that an applicant meets all the qualification requirements of the position.
Jobs under the Excepted Service category are not subject to the Congressional laws, and therefore can have their own qualification requirements.
Basically, the government agency with the job opening handles the application process and the job interview. The government agency posts the position online. Applications can be submitted online and, contrary to belief, a written test is not required for most federal positions. However, it is important to carefully review the “How To Apply” section of the job opening. Some positions require additional information, like college transcripts or copies of professional certifications.
After submitting your application, resume and other documentation outlined in the job description, it could take several weeks before you are contacted. During this time, the hiring agency is conducting a background check on you, which is required for every federal job. In addition, the hiring agency is evaluating your skills to make sure they meet the position’s minimum qualification requirements.
If the background check and qualification requirements are okay, your application will be grouped with all other candidates who qualify for the position. During this process, your qualifications, knowledge and skills set will be compared to other qualified candidates. Those who make the cut will be referred for consideration and an interview arranged.
In the interview stage, the hiring official has a standard set of questions that are posed to all candidates and responses scored accordingly. It’s important to be yourself and expand upon your application, highlighting areas that set you apart from other candidates and best meet the needs of the position.
As the federal government continues to use advances in technology to enhance the federal hiring process, applicants will continue to enjoy a more efficient way of landing a federal job.
For more help and to search for a Federal job, Click here: Federal Government Jobs
