How to Get a U.S. Government Job

Getting a U.S. government job is one of the smartest steps you can make for your future in terms of job security and financial well-being. U.S. government jobs are also one of the few careers left that provide a reliable pension-type retirement plan in addition to the standard 401(k) retirement funds. On top of that, a government job can help build experience in preparation for work in the private sector, if that's your ultimate goal. Start making some serious steps toward securing your future and get a U.S. government job!

There are so many job types available throughout a broad spectrum of agencies and departments all over the country and even around the world--you don't need to live in D.C. to work for the U.S. federal government! Once you know where to look, finding the right job is only a matter of simple research. Once you find potential opportunities that interest you, it's easy to apply for the job(s) online.

Don't immediately discount your expertise as non-marketable in the government sector. Almost every profession is represented in government employment opportunities in some form or another. One example is the White House Calligrapher--who would have thought an artistic specialty would translate into a government job?

To get started, go to the federal government's job search and application website at www.usajobs.gov. This is the hub for all government job hiring. You're sure to find a job fitting your particular skill set. Some, but definitely not all, of the agencies represented at usajobs.gov are the Departments of:
- Agriculture
- Commerce
- Defense and all U.S. Military branches
- Education
- Energy
- Health & Human Services
- Homeland Security (inc. Customs & Border Patrol)
- Interior (inc. National Park Service)
- Justice
- Labor
- NASA
- Transportation
- Treasury
- Veterans Affairs
...And so many more--there's no doubt you'll be amazed at how many potential jobs in all areas of expertise are out there!

If any of these areas of expertise interest you or fit with your qualifications, set up a login and password at the site for free. This will allow you to post or submit your resume online, apply to current available U.S. government jobs, and receive alerts when new job opportunities are posted. Go to the "Info Center" tab to learn about the hiring process, how jobs are filled, government terminology, and get interview advice.

Next, go to the "Job Search" tab to start looking for government job opportunities. You can search by various criteria, including job location (by state or country), salary range, specialty or job category, or by the specific agency you're interested in.

The usajobs.gov site is not only a great site for exploring opportunities, it is set up with all of the necessary forms and requirements to apply for any of the jobs listed. Make a difference in your life and the lives of others by working in public service through a U.S. government job!