USAJOBS is the federal government’s positions and employment website. It’s operated by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), which connects people seeking a federal job with opportunities at hundreds of federal agencies and organisations.
Previously, the federal hiring process has been very scattered, with many people apprenticed to paper, walk-in centres, and actual bulletin board postings. In response to the announcement that a new electronic solution was necessary, the OPM made available the first version of the USAJOBS website in 1996.
The portal has also undergone significant technological upgrades over the years, enhancing the user experience, incorporating secure authentication technologies, and introducing more structured ‘hiring paths’ to encourage veterans, students, and individuals with disabilities alike to find employment in the public sector.
Job Categories on USAJOBS
The federal government uses a 4-digit system, called a job series, to classify all of the job listings. These are themed under the following main occupational groups:
- Professional and Scientific: Engineering, biology, chemistry, and specialised legal/medical professions.
- Administrative and Management: Human resources, program analysis, and information technology management and logistics.
- Technical and Clerical: Technical support, clerical, and data entry.
- Trades and Labour: Wage Grade (WG) jobs that involve physical activity and work in maintenance and/or facility operations.
How to Apply
The federal application process has a series of steps:
- Register an Account: Sign up for USAJOBS and create a secure account on the official website.
- Set up alerts: Add a location, job category, and keywords to receive notifications about new jobs that match your profile.
- Step: Prepare your application. Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to create a comprehensive resume or upload a customised resume in PDF format.
- Submit and Redirect: Link your profile documents by clicking “Apply Online.” It will then take you back to the hiring company’s website to complete the customised assessment questions.
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Documents You Need
Applicants must provide clear and detailed documentation for federal applications:
- Federal Resume: Includes specific details on work history, hours worked, and salary.
- Academic Transcripts: Asked for jobs that have specific educational requirements.
- Form DD-214: Required for veterans who want benefits for military service.
Federal employees, as well as former federal employees, must provide documentation of their civil service status, as required by the SF-50 (Notification of Personnel Action).
Get started applying for jobs on USAJOBS today.
