Table Of Contents
Transcription
Table Of Contents
Table of Contents Section 1 – Introduction ADVANTAGES OF FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT .................................................................................................1 BENEFITS..................................................................................................................................................................... 1 MOBILITY..................................................................................................................................................................... 2 VETERANS PREFERENCE........................................................................................................................................ 2 SPECIAL HIRING AUTHORITIES............................................................................................................................ 2 WHERE ARE THESE FEDERAL JOBS……?......................................................................................................... 3 Section 2 - Starting Your Federal Job Search 10 STEPS FOR SUCCESS WITH FEDERAL APPLIC ATIONS ........................................................................4 1). 2). 3). 4). 5). 6). 7). 8). 9). 10). SEARCH AND APPLY FOR FEDERAL JOBS YOU QUALIFY FOR ..................................................... 4 READ AND FOLLOW ALL DIRECTIONS................................................................................................... 5 CHOOSE AN APPLICATION / RESUME FORMAT.................................................................................. 5 KEEP IT SIMPLE, BUT DETAILED............................................................................................................ 6 ANSWER TRUTHFULLY .............................................................................................................................. 6 TYPE YOUR APPLICATION........................................................................................................................ 7 AVOID SHORTCUTS..................................................................................................................................... 7 KEEP YOUR APPLICATION EASY TO READ......................................................................................... 7 READ AND RE-READ YOUR APPLICATION BEFORE SENDING........................................................ 8 MODIFY YOUR APPLICATION FOR EACH VACANCY ..................................................................... 8 FEDERAL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTS ........................................................................................................9 HOW FEDERAL JOBS ARE FILLED....................................................................................................................... 9 CONTENTS OF A FEDERAL VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT ............................................................................ 10 VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT ...................................................................................................................................... 11 Department Of The Air Force Air Force Reserve, Headquarters..............................................11 USING USAJOBS WEBSITE FOR VACANY ANNOUNCEMENTS .............................................................15 OTHER RECOMMENDED FEDERAL WEBSITES ..........................................................................................15 COMPETITIVE VS . EXCEPTED AGENCIES........................................................................................................ 16 USING AN AGENCY’S OFFICIAL WEBSITE FOR VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENTS ..........................17 Section 3 - Federal Applications, Resumes, & Other Forms THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN FEDERAL RESUME AND PRIVATE INDUSTRY RESUME ............18 10 WRITING TIPS FOR APPLICATIONS............................................................................................................19 3 COMMON APPLICATION FORMATS .............................................................................................................23 1). THE OPTIONAL FORM 612 (OF -612) ................................................................................................... 23 2). THE USAJOBS RESUME BUILDER........................................................................................................... 27 3). AGENCY’S RESUME BUILDER..................................................................................................................... 30 SAMPLE DEPARTMENT OF THE NAVY RESUME BUILDER.......................................................................... 31 CREATING YOUR OWN FEDERAL-STYLE RESUME ..................................................................................32 THE OF - 510 ............................................................................................................................................................... 32 SAMPLE PAPER FEDERAL-STYLE RESUME .................................................................................................... 33 SAMPLE ELECTRONIC / SCANNABLE FEDERAL-STYLE RESUME............................................................. 35 THE QUICK & EASY FED ERAL JOBS KIT.......................................................................................................37 SF – 15 APPLICATION FOR 10-POINTS VETERANS PREFERENCE........................................................37 Section 4 - KSAs WHAT ARE KSAs? .....................................................................................................................................................40 WRITING EFFECTIVE KS As..................................................................................................................................41 A SUGGESTED KSA FORMAT ..............................................................................................................................42 SAMPLE KSAS......................................................................................................................................................... 43 APPLICATION AND KSA REVIEW PROCESS.................................................................................................45 BACKGROUND INVESTIGA TION .......................................................................................................................46 CONCLUSION..............................................................................................................................................................46 Additional Material VETS INFO GUIDE TRACKING SHEET www.usajobs.opm.gov Section Section 1 - Introduction Introduction 1 Why Apply for Federal Employment? The Federal Government is the largest employer in the United States with over 1.8 million full-time employees, not counting the US Postal Service. There are thousands more Federal contractors. Federal agencies offer a strong benefits package, mobility, veterans preference, special hiring authorities for veterans, and job security. The advantages of Federal employment are many. Additionally, age is almost never a disqualifying factor. Also, consider this: • At any one time, there are between 7,500 and 20,000 jobs open in the federal government, www.usajobs.opm.gov • In the next 5 to 10 years, approximately 60% of the current federal workforce will retire. Now is the time to start applying for Federal employment because it may take 2 to 6 months to get hired. Be forewarned though; the Federal application process can be an intense and overwhelming exercise. It will require great effort, dedication, and persistence on your part. However, by following the guidelines provided in this Federal Application Workbook and your diligent commitment, you can become a Federal employee. Make the decision now to apply for Federal employment. Advantages of Federal Employment Benefits • • • • • • • • Healthcare – Choose from over 100 health providers Sick Leave - 4 hours per pay period, 2.5 weeks per year Vacation / Annual Leave - With 3 years of service, you earn 6 hours per pay month. This is 4 hours shy of 4 weeks per year ! Paid Holidays – 10 paid holidays per year Scheduled Pay Increases – Based on your date of hire. Retirement – Purchase your military service to add to your retirement. Thrift Savings Plan - designed to help you save for your future while giving you a tax break. Rate of Pay - the average wage of a federal employee is higher than private industry. Cost Of Living Allowances (COLAs) are also available. Note: Refer to www.opm.gov for more information on benefits. -1- www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 1 - Introduction Mobility With over 15,000 jobs available on any given day, you can select your location to work. The more flexible you are to location of work, the more opportunities will emerge. You may choose to either: • relocate to make grade (take a promotion), which will increase your retirement benefits based on the “high 3” pay grades, OR • take a lateral transfer merely for the convenience of location. THE CHOICE IS YOURS ! Veterans Preference Veterans have preference over the general public. Special consideration is given to qualified veterans seeking Federal employment. You will be given either: • 5-point preference – claimed on resume / application. • 10-point preference – claimed on resume / application and on SF – 15. o less than 30% Service-Connected Disabled (SCD) * o 30% SCD or more Refer to page 3 of your Vets Info Guide for more details on Veterans Preference. * If you claim a service-connected disability in order to be eligible for 10-points Veterans preference, you must submit a VA Award Letter stating your disability rating. This letter must be dated 1991 or later. If your VA Award Letter is older than the requirement, obtain a recent VA Award Letter by contacting the VA at 1-800-827-1000 and request a VA Award Letter. Request that your VA Award Letter be expedited to meet a federal application deadline. Special Hiring Authorities 1. 2. 3. 4. Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) - agencies can appoint an eligible, qualified veteran (does not have to have SCD) without competition. Compete separately, only competition is other veterans. No time limit. 30% or More SCD – No time limit. Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA) of 1998 – eligible veterans compete with Merit Promotion candidates (internal Federal employees) SCD Veteran Enrolled in VA Training Program – may enroll for training at any agency, however you are not a Federal employee. Refer to page 22 of your Vets Info Guide for more details on Special Hiring Authorities. -2- www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 1 - Introduction Where are these Federal Jobs……? ….closer than you think. Below are the Federal Agencies local to the Coachella Valley. Department of Agriculture Consolidated Farm Servi ce Agency 82901 Bliss Avenue Indio, CA 92201 (760) 347-3675 United States Postal Service Main Post Office 333 East Amado Road Palm Springs, CA 92262 Small Business Administration SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) 901 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 320-6682 San Bernardino National Forest 1824 South Commerce Center San Bernardino, CA 92408 (909) 383-5588 Department of Commerce Cabazon Export Assistance Center 84245 Indio Springs Drive Indio, CA 92201 Social Security Administration 4201 E. Ramon Road Palm Springs, CA 92264 Federal Bureau of Investigation 601 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 320-0800 46845 Monroe, Suite 2 Indio, CA 92201 Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration Palm Springs Airport (760) 327-1546 Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management 690 West Garnet Avenue North Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 251-4800 Department of Homeland Security Border Patrol 45620 Commerce Indio, CA 92201 (760) 347-3658 Bureau of Indian Affairs 650 East Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 416-2133 Transportation Security Agency Palm Springs Airport Palm Springs, CA 92262 Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division Post Office Box 5652 Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 416-8590 Department of Veterans Affairs 11201 Benton Loma Linda, CA (909) 825-7084 Internal Revenue Service 980 East Tahquitz Canyon Way, #C Palm Springs, CA 92262 (760) 322-5134 41-865 Boardwalk, Suite 103 Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 341-5570 -3- www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Starting Your Federal Job Search Where to begin? You have no clue where to start, the process is intimidating, and you are unsure what is needed in your Federal application. Why does it have to be so complicated? 10 Steps for Success with Federal Applications While the Federal application process is more tedious than that used in the private sector, following 10 simple steps will help you develop a systematic pattern to tackle Federal applications. Apply each one of these steps for each vacancy you apply for and you will be on the road to success. Important procedures will be briefly introduced within these 10 simple steps, but will be covered in greater detail in Sections 3 and 4. 1). Search and Apply for Federal Jobs You Qualify For The first step in the application process is to search for positions that interest you and that you qualify for. Every Federal opening is posted and a full-text vacancy announcement issued. They are long because much legal and procedural information must be included. Reviewing Federal vacancy announcements and studying the position requirements can help you identify the types of positions which interest you most and more importantly those for which you qualify. The USAJobs website, www.usajobs.opm.gov, is a great starting point. Dishonorable discharges are not accepted. * If you still have questions after reviewing vacancy announcements, call the contact person. The contact person will generally be listed at the very bottom of an announcement. This individual is more than willing to help. If you do not qualify, do not go on to step 2. Start the process over with another job until you find one you qualify for. * DD-214s are frequently upgraded to honorable discharges or amended to fix errors. Any person who either leaves military service with less than an honorable discharge, finds errors on DD-214, or needs amendments to his/her DD-214 can file an application to have it upgraded with the appropriate branch of service. See your veterans employment specialist for details. -4- www.usajobs.opm.gov 2). Read and Follow All Directions Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Carefully read and reread all directions for each vacancy announcement. Pay close attention to the section in the vacancy announcement that addresses qualification requirements. These are the criteria that the reviewer will be looking for in your application package. You should either: • • address the outlined qualification requirements (i.e., Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs) or Selective Factors) on separate sheets of paper, OR highlight in the application the information so that the reviewer can clearly see it and find evidence that you are qualified. Provide all requested information (e.g., country of citizenship, veterans preference entitlement, reinstatement eligibility) and include all supplemental forms and documents (e.g., DD-214, college transcripts, SF-15 verification of veterans preference, VA Award Letter) so that your application is considered. If the position qualifications indicate a "qualified typist is required," be sure to include certification that you can meet the typing speed requirement indicated. If you don't understand something in the announcement, call the contact person. 3). Choose an Application / Resume Format Agencies will typically accept applications / resumes in one of 3 common formats: 1. 2. 3. Optional Application for Federal Employment (OF-612), USAJobs Resume Builder, Agency Resume Builder. Regardless of the application / resume format you choose, specific information is still needed in the application to ensure that you are given appropriate consideration. Read the instructions completely and ensure your work history is “recent and relevant.“ Your failure to submit the requested information will hurt your chances for consideration. It is your responsibility to make sure your application includes enough information upon which a qualification determination can be made. Federal vacancy announcements tell you exactly what needs to be covered in your application. Read the information and then review your application against it to ensure you have complied. A fourth application format involves creating a custom Federal-style resume from scratch. For the Federal application process, a typical, private-industry resume will not be sufficient. If you choose to create a Federal-style resume, ensure that you provide all requested information in your application as specified on the OF – 510, Applying for a Federal Job. This publication outlines the basic information that is needed when applying for Federal positions. You can print a copy of the OF – 510 from www.opm.gov or refer to Section 3, page 32. Keep in mind that some agencies may have additional requirements that you must supplement your application with. Read and follow the instructions and requirements in each vacancy announcement. -5- www.usajobs.opm.gov 4). Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Keep it Simple, but Detailed Basically, say more with less. Your application should be thorough, provide enough detail, and should clearly depict your experience, education, and other qualifications. Pretend that the person reading your application / resume knows nothing about the nature of the work you are applying for (sometimes they truly do not know the work - they are trained to look for keywords). Other considerations are: 5). • Eliminate flowery language and verbose descriptions, • Avoid using your agency or company specific terminology. Instead, use the government jargon of the agency of which you are interested in working for, • Minimize the use of acronyms. If using acronyms, write them out the first time and follow with the acronym in parentheses. An example would be Employment Development Department (EDD), every time after just write EDD, • Use action verbs in the past tense to describe your experience and briefly explain what you really did. For example, say "utilized Microsoft Word, Excel, and Power Point to type documents, prepare spreadsheets, and prepare and present presentations," • Try to include work experience that is “recent and relevant” to the position you are applying for. Answer Truthfully Be honest. You are responsible for all of your answers. If you are questioned about the honesty of your answer, “I did not understand the question” will not be an acceptable response. The hiring authority will eventually find out everything about you, guaranteed. Disclose everything up front. Don't over-inflate your experience, knowledge, education, or qualifications. You will be certifying the accuracy of the information provided. Providing false or fraudulent information may be grounds for not hiring you or for firing you after you begin working. Even worse, it may also be punishable by fine or imprisonment. Note: If you can’t remember certain employment details, obtain a detailed statement of your employment history. Simply complete Form SSA-7050-F4, Request for Social Security Earnings Information. This form can be obtained at your nearest Social Security office or downloaded at http://www.socialsecurity.gov/online/ssa-7050.pdf. -6- www.usajobs.opm.gov 6). Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Type Your Application Keep in mind that you are making a first impression with the application. You want to present yourself in a professional manner. Type the application. It should NOT be handwritten. You can download forms used in the application process in various formats on http://www.opm.gov/ or www.ars.usda.gov/careers/appforms.htm. 7). Avoid Shortcuts Don't attach lengthy documents (e.g., position descriptions) to document your experience. Instead, put your experience in your own words so that the reviewer can see what you did versus what was expected in a position you held. If you need extra space, simply include the response on plain paper. If applying electronically, do NOT copy and paste a generic resume for every position you apply for. 8). Keep Your Application Easy to Read In many cases, your application is pre-screened by computer. But human resources personnel will also review your application. By being clear, concise, and to the point, your application will be easy to read and will help these individuals to do their job better. Looking at applications that are messy, too wordy, and too thick can hurt you. The human resources personnel will have to go through all applications received and sometimes individuals weaken their chances of being considered by sending in too much information. Unless the instructions say otherwise, you should: • describe your duties, responsibilities and accomplishments by being brief and to the point; • use keywords because, in many cases, applications are stored in a database and read by computer first. • leave white space in your application; • highlight key points using bold or by underlining, using all capitals for headings, • keep paragraphs short, typically between 5 and 8 lines. Remember, this application will be your first impression - if it is messy or unprofessional, you may send a message that your work habits are messy or unprofessional. -7- www.usajobs.opm.gov 9). Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Read and Re-read Your Application before Sending This is probably the most important piece of advice. After you prepare your application, review it closely against the vacancy announcement to be sure that you have covered all requirements. Proofread your application, check for typographical and grammatical errors, and correct before sending. Do NOT staple your application together. Make sure that you have attached all forms being requested (i.e., DD-214, college transcripts, SF - 15 to verify veterans preference, VA Award Letter, etc.). Your failure to submit these documents could mean being excluded from consideration. 10). Modify your Application for Each Vacancy Now that you have a better understanding of what is expected in your Federal application, you will have to modify your basic application when applying for different types of Federal positions. Since each vacancy announcement covers different types of work, you want to make sure your application clearly shows how you meet the requirements of each position for which you apply. Using the same application for different positions will hurt you in the review process. You may forget to address an important job requirement if you don't closely review your application package against each vacancy announcement. If using a computer, you can copy and paste sections of your resume to cut down on time. Remember, though, to tailor these sections using keywords from that particular vacancy announcement. If you choose to use a basic application, supplement it with responses to specific qualification requirements and link it back to the relevant periods of employment and education. -8- www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Federal Vacancy Announcements Here are some very encouraging statistics about investing time into your Federal job search: • Outside applicants can apply to about 60 percent of the announcements. The other 40 percent are for Merit Promotion (for internal Federal employees only, but veterans under VEOA of 1998 compete against these Federal employees), • 85 percent of the announcements are for single vacancies, • 50 percent of the jobs are professional or administrative in nature, • 75 percent of the jobs were advertised from December through April - due to beginning of the year budget appropriations, • Occupations with the most vacancy announcements re: clerk, secretary, general administration, computer specialist and management / program analyst, • About 50 percent of the announcements reopen for application between two weeks and one month. How Federal Jobs Are Filled Most Federal agencies do their own recruiting and hiring. A majority of the positions won’t even require a written test. The process is similar to that in private industry, but there are differences due to the laws, executive orders, and regulations that govern Federal employment. Agencies post their announcements with all of the instructions, requirements, and procedures for applying to that particular position. Requirements and procedures vary between agencies. All agencies require the basic resume information but it varies on how much additional information is needed in order for the agency to process your application. It's recommended that you follow the instructions very carefully. Information not submitted can result in your application not being evaluated. Many announcements allow applicants to apply online directly to the agency. Using the online method, you decide which resume to submit for that particular job. You can also create cover letters for submission. In the future, you will be able to track your application status for each of your applications. -9- www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Contents of a Federal Vacancy Announcement Generally, Federal vacancy announcements are long and repetitive. It will be up to you to find relevant information. n Name of agency and office – some agencies fall under departments. Example: Transportation Security Agency falls under the Department of Homeland Security, n Position – Pay schedule (i.e., GS, WG), series (refers to job class), and grade (rate of pay), n Salary - sometimes you can negotiate your salary if it is in the salary range. If you've earned $82,000 in your past job, you will probably be offered that in the government, n Opening and closing dates – some agencies require that you’re application be received by the closing date while other agencies only require that your application is postmarked by the closing date, n Location of the job – be flexible about location, you can always transfer, n Who can apply – all Federal jobs require US citizenship. Some are open only to current federal employees, veterans, or other specified groups, n Qualifications required for the job – only apply if you meet the qualifications, n Duties – ensure that you can perform the duties, n How to apply – each vacancy announcement will have its own set of procedures, n Point of contact – if you have questions, there will always be contact information. On the following page is an actual Federal vacancy announcement taken from the USAJobs website. - 10 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Vacancy Announcement Department Of The Air Force Air Force Reserve, Headquarters Vacancy Announcement Number: 443 PHOTOGRAPHER Opening Date: Closing Date: Monday, April 01, 2002 Monday, January 31, 2005 Position: Series & Grade: PHOTOGRAPHER GS-1060-07/09 Salary: 29,473.00 - 46,870.00 USD Annually Duty Locations: FEW vacancies - RIVERSIDE CA, CA Related Job Link: AIR RESERVE TECHNICIAN INFO (FORMS) Remarks: APPLICANTS MUST BE WILLING AND ABLE TO JOIN THE AIR FORCE RESERVES. POSITION IS NOT FOR TRAINEES, MUST HAVE PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE/TRAINING. Who May Apply APPLICANTS MUST BE UNITED STATES CITIZENS AND BE ELIGIBLE AND WILLING TO JOIN THE USAF RESERVE. Retired military are usually ineligible for membership in the Air Force Reserve. RETIRED MILITARY PERSONNEL WHO HAVE ACTIVE AIR FORCE RESERVE ASSIGNMENTS MAY APPLY PROVIDED THEY SHOW ASSIGNMENT (POSITION AND UNIT) ON THEIR APPLICATION. Air Reserve Technicians are part of the regular career civil service and enjoy all the benefits accruing to Federal employees in the competitive civil service. In addition, Air Reserve Technicians are required to maintain their active membership in the Air Force Reserve unit so long as they occupy Air Reserve Technician positions. As members of reserve units, Air Reserve Technicians receive on the average one weekend of military training per month. In addition, they are eligible for 15 days active duty tour each year for which military leave is granted with full civilian pay. Air Reserve units and members thereof are subject to immediate call to active duty in mobilization to meet a national emergency. Major Duties Performs photographic documentation and audio-visual functions. Maintains a quality - 11 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search production of video taped training programs consisting of standard/non-standard unit briefings which includes processing and maintaining weapons delivery imagery video tapes. Operates a wide variety of professional standard and non-standard photographic and video equipment ranging from studio cameras to hand-held precision cameras, for training projects. Operates and maintains photographic processing machinery, printers, projection, and related equipment. Performs difficult black and white/color still photographic assignments. Operates a television camera for the purpose of video taping educational, instructional, and informational programs. Edits instructional/ informational video programs. Accomplishes custom photo finishing using photographic burning, dodging, defusing, and spotting skills. Evaluates new audio visual equipment and provides budget information for procurement of equipment and related accessories. Supervises production of video taped educational programs as required. Qualifications Required Specialized Experience: Experience in the field of photography (OR) any directly related experience which has demonstrated: knowledge of the principles, practices and techniques of photography and dark room/laboratory processing functions; ability to operate a variety of television/video/motion picture, still sequence, high speed, underwater, aerial or other cameras and associated equipment; ability to perform developing/printing processes; ability to determine and select the proper cameras, lens, filters, lighting other accessories/equipment to produce the desired photographic products; ability to use, operate and maintain photographic processing machinery printers, projection and related equipment/materials. (To be creditable, the specialized experience must meet the above quality level requirements). Substitution of Education for Experience: There is no education substitution. How You Will Be Evaluated Basis of Rating: Eligibility/ratings will be based upon the descriptions of work experience as presented in your application. Your duties and responsibilities will be compared to the basic knowledge, skills, and abilities required for the position. 1. Skills in operating still cameras, copy cameras, 8 mm. and 35 mm. motion picture cameras. 2. Ability to carry out the common developing and printing processes and related techniques, i.e. processing negatives, printing, enlarging, cropping, or retouching photographs. 3. Ability to select, arrange and choose proper lighting for subjects. 4. Operate production-type motion picture cameras, television cameras, aerial, underwater, ultra-high-speed, still sequence cameras, etc., along with their related equipment. 5. Ability to exercise a subject-matter knowledge of the field of work to be photographed in order to select proper type of camera, lens, filters, lighting and other related factors and equipment to produce appropriate photographic record desired. 6. Ability to apply standard methods in all phases of black and white darkroom work. - 12 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search 7. Familiarity with commonly used procedures, processes, and techniques used in photo laboratory work. 8. Ability to perform chemical analysis of processing solutions and make necessary adjustments to processing solutions, film cement, film wax and film polishing solutions. How To Apply FORMS REQUIRED BASIC APPLICATION FOR FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT - Individuals may apply with either (a) a resume, (b) the Optional Application for Federal Employment (OF 612) or (c) any other written format the applicant chooses. Although the Federal Government does not require a designated standard application form, certain information is necessary in order to evaluate qualifications and to determine legal requirements for Federal Employment. The application submitted must provide all the information stated in the current Amendment to Announcement 443. ATAFR-202, Employee Availability Statement - This form is mandatory. SF-15, Claim for 10-point Veterans Preference - This form is mandatory for all claims based on service-connected disability, widow, mother, spouse or purple heart. Require documentary proof must be submitted with form. DD-214, Certificate of Release or Release or Discharge from Active Duty -A copy of this document is requested but not mandatory. You may mail application & required form ATAFR-202 to the address below; OR Fax to 478-327-0112/DSN 497-0112 Other Information Individuals who have special priority selection rights under the Interagency Career Transition Assistance Program (ICTAP) must be well qualified for the position to receive consideration for special priority selection. ICTAP eligible achieving a score of 80 or higher, excluding veteran preference points, will be considered well qualified. Federal civilian employees seeking ICTAP eligibility must submit proof that they meet the requirements of 5 CFR 330.704. This includes a copy of the agency notice, a copy of the most recent Performance Rating, and a copy of the most recent SF-50 noting current position, grade level, and duty location. Please annotate your application to reflect that you are applying as an ICTAP eligible. Applications will not be accepted if received in postage paid official government envelopes. This announcement covers multiple grade levels. Some positions may have promotion potential to a higher grade than the grade being filled; some positions may not have promotion potential. - 13 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search The cut-off date for this position is the 25th of each month. Therefore, if we received your application by the 25th of the month, you are eligible to go on the register the following month. Spouses of active duty military members of the Armed Forces may receive preference in hiring under this announcement if they are among the best qualified referred and are within reach of selection. For information on military spouse preference, please refer to website http://www.cpms.osd.mil/fas/staffing/pdf/st006.pdf. Please clearly identify in your application that you are asking for spouse preference. Your Social Security Number is requested under the authority of Executive Order 9397 to uniquely identify your records from those of other applicants who may have the same name. As allowed by law or Presidential directive, your SSN is used to seek information about you from employers, schools, banks, and others who may know you. Failure to provide your SSN on your application materials, will result in your application not being processed. CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT: The work is primarily sedentary, although there is some walking, traveling, and carrying of light weight equipment and materials. The incumbent may be required to be exposed to a variety of living conditions while on location including extreme hot, cold, outdoor working environment, and living in field conditions. Incumbent may be required to travel by military or commercial aircraft in performance of TDY. PAY, WORK SCHEDULE, AND BENEFITS: The salary provided in this announcement is the base pay and does not include Locality Pay which will vary depending on geographic area. Please visit http://www.opm.gov/oca/payrates/index to obtain Local Pay Tables for geographic areas. Selectee will be eligible for health and life insurance, annual (vacation) and sick leave and will be covered under the Federal Employees Retirement System. All Federal employees are required by PL 104-134 to have federal payments made by Direct Deposit. This position will be filled on a full-time permanent basis. Upon completing any required probationary period, the position will be permanent. Send Mail to: HQ AFRC/DPC-SEU 135 PAGE ROBINS AFB, GA 31098-1601 Fax: 4783270112 - 14 - For questions about this job: BRENDA WIGGINS Phone: 4783270113 Fax: 4783270112 Internet: SEU@AFRC.AF.MIL www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Using USAJobs Website for Vacancy Announcements USAJobs is the official job site of the United States Federal Government. USAJOBS is provided at no cost by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and offers information, on average, over 17,000 U.S. government job opportunities worldwide. Besides searching through thousand of Federal vacancy announcements, other main features of USAJobs are: • • • • • • Veterans Info Guide – a whole section devoted to information concerning veterans (also located at the back of this workbook), USAJobs Resume Builder – a simple-to-use application format, Automatic Job Alert – job agents will automatically search jobs according to your preferences and report back to you, * Easy Application Process – apply online to all the jobs you want, safely, confidentially, quickly, Application History – maintain a log of all of the Federal vacancy announcements you apply for, Cover Letter Writer – write cover letters and store them in your USAJobs account. Besides the features listed above, USAJobs contains a vast wealth of information on how to write effective resumes and other valuable information. Spend some time exploring the USAJobs website and use it as a base for your Federal job search. Other Recommended Federal Websites USAJobs is not the only website for Federal jobs. 1). FedJobs, http://www.fedjobs.com/ (great for excepted agency vacancy announcements), 2). Federal Job Search, http://www.federaljobsearch.com/ (advertises 30,000 jobs daily) - 15 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Competitive vs. Excepted Agencies Before we go any further, we must distinguish between the two different types of agencies. Most Federal positions are with Competitive Agencies. To obtain a Federal job with a competitive agency, you must compete with other applicants in open competition. Other agencies are excluded from the competitive civil service procedures. This means that these agencies have their own hiring system which establishes the evaluation criteria they use in filling their internal vacancies. These agencies are called Excepted Service Agencies. Agencies are required to post their competitive service positions on USAJOBS system whenever they are seeking applicants from the general public and outside of their own agency. Although agencies are not required to post their excepted service positions on USAJOBS, many do so they can get additional applicants. An agency is under no obligation to make a selection. In some instances, an agency may cancel the posting and choose to reannounce the vacancy at a later time. If you are interested in employment with an excepted service agency, you should contact that agency directly. OPM does not provide application forms or information on jobs in excepted service agencies or organizations. Examples of excepted agencies include the FBI, CIA, and TSA. - 16 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 2 – Starting Your Federal Job Search Using An Agency’s Official Website for Vacancy Announcements In addition to using USAJobs, search through a specific agency’s website. Many Federal agencies have official websites where you can find openings that are not found in USAJobs. If a particular Federal agency interests you, access their official website for job announcements or for contact information. Other Federal agencies fill their jobs like private industry; by allowing applicants to contact the agency directly for job information and application processing. Search through your telephone book under the Government section for a list of local Federal agencies or refer to page 3 for a list of Coachella Valley agencies. Below is a list of several agencies who not only post their vacancy announcements in USAJobs, but also on their own websites. DOA - Department of Agriculture http://www.usda.gov DVA – Department of Veterans Affairs http://www.va.gov/jobs DOI - Department of the Interior http://www.doi.gov/doijobs/doijobs.html DOL – Department of Labor http://www.dol.gov/dol/jobs.htm DOL - Department of Transportation http://www.dot.gov/jobs_and_education.html DHS - Department of Homeland Security http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/display?theme=40 DON - U.S. Navy www.donhr.navy.mil FAA - Federal Aviation Administration http://www.faa.gov/jobs/index.cfm IRS – Internal Revenue Service http://www.jobs.irs.gov SSA – Social Security Administration http://www.ssa.gov/careers/index.htm USPS – United States Postal Service http://www.usps.com/employment - 17 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms You meet the requirements, now what? You’ve got your sights on a Federal job that you are well-qualified for. Now we’ll review the applications, resumes, and other forms that you will need to complete. The difference between Federal resume and private industry resume When you send a private company your resume, what are you hoping for? An interview, right? You want a chance to convince the interviewer that you’re the best one for their job. Now think of all the things you’ve been taught about your resume. One page, never more than two. Hit the highlights, forget the detail. If you follow these private industry guidelines, you will never get a Federal job Private industry companies hire from interviews. In stark contrast, Federal agencies hire almost directly from the application / resume. Interviews are optional for many Federal jobs. Thus, a resume for a Federal job must be longer and contain much more detail than a private sector resume. Your Federal resume should be like your “interview on paper.” There are several key differences from the typical private industry resume and the Federal resume. Below you will see that: 1) Federal resumes are normally 3-4 pages in length, sometimes longer compared to the standard 1-page private industry resume, 2) You are strongly encouraged to use government jargon when applying. Use the keywords and skills that are familiar in government language, 3) Compliance details are absolutely mandatory in the Federal resume. These compliance details include SSN, dates of employment, supervisor’s contact info., DD-214, Veterans Preference, etc., 4) A profile statement is required in the federal resume using keywords and summary of relevant experience, 5) Your Federal application / resume lays the foundation for your KSAs, an extra application step that private industry does not require. - 18 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 10 Writing Tips for Applications Before we introduce you to the various Federal forms, we will cover 10 writing tips taken from the USAJobs website on how to compose a dynamic description of your work history. You will apply these 10 tips when you complete the forms. 1. Use words wisely. Today, the key to a good application is getting the right information to the agency representative in a fast, readable style. How do you do this? By using minimum words to provide maximum information. Just look at this example: In this position, it was my responsibility to assist the program director on evaluating health care programs. Due to the fact that most of these centers were in rural areas, it was important that I traveled at least 3 days a week. It's full of useless words and phrases such as due to the fact, it is important, and it was my responsibility that block your point. Cut them out for a stronger, easy-to-access message: In this position, I assisted the program director on evaluating health care programs. Because most of these centers were in rural areas, I traveled at least 3 days a week. Repeats can slow your message, too. Look at this line: I worked with new law enforcement officers who were just entering the force and needed to learn techniques for identifying and interrogating suspects who they suspected of illegal activity. In my capacity, I trained them on these techniques. Notice that new law enforcement officers and who were just entering the force say the same thing? So does suspects and suspected of illegal activity. Less obvious is the repeated work with and trained . The revision would read: I trained new law enforcement officers on techniques for identifying and interrogating suspects. 2. Keep sentences short and clear. Short, direct sentences help the agency get your point. But remember, don't duplicate your resume. Rather, you're elaborating on significant points in full sentences. This line is so long: My 12 years as a customer service representative have given me the opportunity to become comfortable speaking to virtually anyone and to answering questions calmly and professionally even when the person I am speaking to is upset. it practically leaves the reader out-of-breath. By breaking up sentences, your point is more flowing: My customer service representative experience provided opportunities to sharpen my skills. For example, I am comfortable speaking to virtually anyone. I can answer questions calmly and professionally, even when the person I am speaking to is upset. - 19 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 3. Make your message stand out. Paragraphs that are easy-to-see are more than nice - they can make or break your message. So remember, keep your paragraphs brief, usually between 5 and 10 lines depending on content. Put important points first - where they're most visible. Here are some possibilities: Short paragraph While an associate editor for Agricultural Magazine, I selected each month's special features on scientific findings and agricultural economics; hired five diverse new writers, all with scientific backgrounds; and reviewed all copy to ensure a style accessible to readers ranging from rural farmers to university researchers. Subheaders While an associate editor for Agricultural Magazine, I was responsible for: Critical content decisions. I selected each month's special features on the relationship between scientific findings and agricultural economics, among other articles. Quality of articles. I reviewed all copy to ensure the style was accessible to readers ranging from rural farmers to university researchers 4. Focus on outcome. What is the most important aspect of your work experience? The answer may be a surprise: the outcome. In fact, you'd be amazed by how many people forget to mention this critical aspect of their experience altogether. When discussing outcome, be sure to discuss the whats, the hows, and the breadth and scope of your experiences: 1. 2. What occurred. Did you improve the workplace? Perhaps you refined technology tools, created programs, or organized procedures. Regardless, let the agency know what occurred. Use brief examples to best illustrate your point whenever possible. How much and how many. Did you start new projects? How many? Did you save your previous office money? Time? How much? Don't forget percentages, numbers, and degrees that apply. Notice how this example falls flat because it ignores the outcome: As a supervisor at Early Start, I oversaw the development of grant proposals. While in this position, I put systems in place to ensure that my employees provided the government with the exact information it needed. While this revision is more revealing...and competitive: As a supervisor at Early Start, I oversaw a team of 10 employees who developed grant proposals. While in this position, I developed a template-based system to help my coworkers anticipate requirements. This helped us meet all deadlines a week in advance and create proposals that won us two grants more than the previous year. - 20 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 5. Showcase your role. Did you work on your own? As part of a team? In a supervisory capacity? As a team leader? Let the agency know your role in the projects. For example, this response: I helped put together conferences. Among my responsibilities were sending invitations, calling potential guests, and preparing the conference materials. would be stronger if worded this way: As part of a team of five employees, I helped put together conferences. Among other responsibilities, I had to coordinate with my coworkers to send invitations, call potential guests, and prepare the conference materials. Were you promoted while working on a project? If so, mention that too. Note, for example, this response doesn't mention a promotion: In my last position, I spent 2 to 3 months at a time in the field collecting samples for the study. The following year, I spent most of time in the lab, only going to the field occasionally. while this revision does: In my position as Project Manager, I spent 2 to 3 months at a time in the field, overseeing 5 specialists who assisted me in collecting samples for the study. The following year, I was promoted to Senior Project Manager which required that I spent more time in the lab. As a result, I only went to the field occasionally 6. Remember - timeframes count. Timeframes count so be sure to address these questions: what were the dates or length of time you worked on a project or job? Did you work full-time or part-time? If parttime, what percentage of your time did you do that work? For example, this candidate could have worked in his position for a few months as a part-time employee: I served as a contractor for the agency. I regularly produced educational videos and IVT training sessions. This response is stronger worded this way: From 1999-2002, I served as a full-time contractor for the agency. I spent at least 30% of my time producing educational videos and IVT training sessions. If you didn't spend substantial time in a particular position, include the dates anyway. Other information such as the outcome of your experience or the scope and depth of your work will underscore its value. 7. Value your experience. Many experiences illuminate your significance as a candidate. You must mention these experiences. You may have gained valuable experience through: • Leadership positions. Were you president of your sorority or fraternity? Did you lead a team either as part of your classroom experience or a volunteer group? Mention these positions and the outcome of your efforts. • Extracurricular activities. Perhaps you volunteered or belonged to a club that gave you valuable experience. Let the agency know specifics including projects, dates, and how your experience applies to the field. • Internships. Never underestimate the importance of hands-on education, especially internships, whether during the summer or over an entire semester. - 21 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 8. Show and tell. Telling about your experience is great but be sure to use examples, too. See how this candidate's job sounds pretty blasé: As a maintenance mechanic, I often worked in settings that required I maintain control of every move in the operation. Look at the difference a few specifics can make: As a maintenance mechanic, I often worked in settings that required I maintain control of every move in the operation. For example, for 16 months I worked on renovation projects in the Smithsonian Institutions where I had to move priceless museum exhibits using forklifts, cranes, skids, and rollers. 9. Resist additions You may be tempted, but please resist sending an additional package with copies of awards, publications, training certificates, letters of recommendation, lengthy job descriptions, writing samples, or a photo unless the agency specifically requests it . Instead, keep important information where it belongs - in your application or resume. 10. Illuminate your resume - don't repeat it. When writing about your experience to describe how it matches the competencies or KSAs required by a job, don't simply repeat your resume but illuminate important facts or give examples to shed new light on the breath and scope of your experience. Notice how this resume sample provides an overview of the candidate's experience - in this case as a trainer for law enforcement officers: Scheduled and conducted training and maintained training records of all law enforcement personnel. When writing about her experience, however, the candidate added these details: While a supervisor in the training department I conducted sessions in anti-terrorism techniques, security and protection procedures, and suspect interviewing strategies. I also trained reaction teams and counter-terrorism units, operated weapons ranges, and conducted fitness tests. This gave the agency fresh information about the experience she could bring to the job. Whatever your education and experience, it deserves to be highlighted in your resume, competencies, and KSAs. Follow these tips for guidance in presenting your strengths to potential Federal employers. - 22 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 3 Common Application Formats Now that you have read the USAJobs 10 Writing Tips for Applications, let’s review the 3 most commonly used application formats. There are many methods to apply for a Federal job. In this workbook we will cover 3 application formats that ensure you a complete application. You can see these 3 application methods in the graph below: 3 Application Formats 1). Optional Form - 612 2). USAJobs Resume Builder 3). Agency’s Resume Builder If you choose one of these 3 application formats you will be submitting a complete application. Regardless of which method you use, the basic fundamentals are the same. 1). The Optional Form 612 (OF -612) The OF – 612 is the most commonly used format to apply for Federal employment. It will contain all required information and is accepted by most agencies. It is recommended that new employees use this application method. It is highly suggested that you type this form. Refer to www.opm.gov/forms/word/of612.doc to access this form and type in all of the required information. Save your completed OF – 612 on your computer when finished. On the following page is a completed OF –612 for the Photographer Vacancy Announcement in Section 2, page 11. - 23 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms - 24 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms - 25 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms - 26 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 2). The USAJobs Resume Builder USAJobs offers a Resume Builder, a preset application format that you simply enter information into. Access it at www.usajobs.opm.gov. To begin using the USAJobs Resume Builder, you will need to create an account and will be asked to create a username and password. The USAJobs Resume Builder has a unique component called a Profile Statement or Resume Headline. It is the first thing that agencies see when they are searching USAJobs for qualified candidates. An example of a Profile Statement would be, “Dedicated Public Service Professional with 3 Years Experience.” On the next page, there is a completed resume using the USAJobs Resume Builder for the Photographer Vacancy Announcement in Section 2, page 11. - 27 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Mickey Mouse 123 Goofy Land Dizzy, CA 92262 Primary Phone: (760) 000-0000 Secondary Phone: (760) 000-0000 Email: Looseal@aol.com Social Security Number: Country of citizenship: Veterans' Preference: Highest Grade: Contact Current Employer: 000-99-0000 United States of America 10-point preference based on a compensable service-connected disability of 10 percent but less than 30 percent SV-0019-D, 09/2002-Present Yes OBJECTIVE Continued upward mobility within the Federal Service TARGET JOB Target Job Title: Desired Job Type: Desired Status: Photographer Employee Desired Salary: 42,000.00 USD Per Year Site Location: No Preference Full-Time Description of my perfect job: Ideally I would prefer to hold a position where my experience and my ability to be an integral part of a team are valued and respected, and as part of that team to always strive to improve operati ons, safety, and customer service. TARGET LOCATIONS Relocate: US-CA-SanBernardino/ Palm Springs WORK EXPERIENCE Transportation Security Administration Palm Springs International Airport Yes 9/2002 - Present Grade Level: SV Salary: $23,700 (+COLA) Hours per week: 40 Transportation Security Screener , 0019 Provide and maintain the security of American air travelers, airports and airplanes by deterring and/or preventing successful terrorist attacks or other incidents with minimal disruption to transportation with complete customer service to travelers. Specific duties include, but are not limited to: Frontline screening of baggage, cargo and passengers. Identifying dangerous objects in baggage, cargo, and on passengers and preventing those objects from being transported onto aircraft, always maintaining a courteous and professional manner. Use diverse electronic detection and imaging equipment. Wanding and pat-down searches. Baggage screening and ticket review. Perform duties as Acting Lead as assigned and insure proper rotation of security screener. Accomplishments: Master x-ray screener, Oct 2002; among the first to open Palm Springs International Airport under TSA guidelines, Oct 1, 2002. Selected by training coordinator to also open (federalize) Yuma International Airport, Oct 28, 2002. Recipient of monetary award and certificate for Recognition of Dedication in Exemplary Customer Service, Courtesy, and Professionalism, March 2003. Volunteered to be part of the Mobile Screening Force to assist TSA in Sitka, Alaska during their peak season, May 15th - Jul 31st, 2003. Exceptional attendance, no tardiness, no write-ups. (Contact Supervisor: Yes, Supervisor's Name: Cinderella, Supervisor's Phone: (760) 323-1200) - 28 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Mickey Mouse Photography Palm Springs 6/1987 - Present Salary: $35,000.00 Hours per week: 60 Owner/Operator Owner/operator of a photography business that caters to fashion, commercial, weddings, portraits, and special events. - Using a variety of cameras and formats (35mm and medium format Mamiya RZ) photographed subjects using color, black and white, transparency, and digital imaging. Edited all photographs for touch-ups and special effects. -Arranged for proper lighting using light meters, light boxes, reflectors, and natural lighting -Posed clients for traditional and non-traditional portraits -Scheduled clients for sitting an/or made arrangements to shoot on location -Determined proper outdoor lighting in advance of special event, i.e. wedding, reception, parties, etc. -Invoiced, billed, and collected payment; kept soft ledger of accounts payable/receivable for tax accountant. -Marketed business with local chambers, business networks, advertising venues, internet, and local publications -Designed brochures, postcards, business cards, and fliers for clientele. (Contact Supervisor: Yes, Supervisor's Name: Self, Supervisor's Phone: (760) 000-0000) EDUCATION Villa Maria College Cheektowaga, NY US Vocational - 6/1985 Major: Minor: Description: Photography AFFILIATIONS JOB-RELATED TRAINING COURSES JOB-RELATED SKILLS 2/1989 - Present Professional Photographers Association member Computer Graphic Design, June 2000 Skill Name Adobe Photo Skill Level Expert Last Used Currently used Experience 3 years JOB-RELATED HONORS, AWARDS, MEMBERSHIPS, ETC. Outstanding Customer Service Award, March 2003 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION 1. Skills in operating still cameras, copy cameras, 35mm and digital cameras. For the past 17 years I have operated all 35mm, medium format, and digital cameras both in the studio and on location taking portraits, shooting commercial products, and photographing special events. 2. Ability to carry out the common developing and printing processes and related techniques, i.e. processing negatives, printing, enlarging, cropping, or retouching photographs. For 14 of the last 17 years I developed and processed all my own negatives, mixing all chemicals, and printed both color and black and white prints from contact sheets to 16"x20" prints. Additionally, performed all touch-ups to meet client specifications. Since 2000, the bulk of my work has been in digital photography. Viewing is instant and customers can request desired changes at the time of the shoot. I edited all images for touch-ups and/or special effects. Printed up final prints on Epson 1280 (35%) REFERENCES Daffy Duck Loony Toones Phone Number: (909) 000-0000 Email Address: Daffy@garbeldy.com Reference Type: Professional - 29 - Cartoon Character www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms 3). Agency’s Resume Builder The third most common application format is using an agency’s online resume builder format. Many Federal agencies will offer their own unique online resume builder format. You simply visit the agency’s website and insert the required information in the space provided. An agency’s resume builder format is very similar to the USAJobs resume builder format. The Department of the Navy is an agency that offers its own resume builder. These agencies use an automated system called a resumix to process resumes. The resumix is an artificial intelligence process that “reads” and identifies skills from your resume. Why use an agency’s online resume builder ? • when you click on “Submit,” your resume is received within minutes and processed within 2 business days, • it will properly format your resume and will save it for later use. • your resume can never be rejected for not answering all the questions because the resume builder will not let you submit it until all questions are answered, • human error will not occur because automated system records resume into database, • if you include your email address, a copy of your resume is sent to you, • you receive immediate confirmation of resume transmission, • personal information is secure; it is password-protected and encrypted, • can be eligible for multiple positions using one resume. If an agency like the Department of the Navy offers you a chance to complete their own resume builder, it is a good idea that you use it to create your resume, Just like the OF – 612 and the USAJobs resume builder, an agency’s resume builder ensures that all information required by that specific agency is submitted, Although some agency resume builders can be restrictive (limited length for describing jobs and experience), use their resume builder anyway. In this case, remember, say more with less. NOTE: Some Federal agencies will only respond via email. America Online has been identified as an internet service provider that does not accept email responses from some Federal agencies. Yahoo email accounts, however, are recognized by Federal agencies and are free to the public. If you have America Online, sign up for a free Yahoo account. On the next page is a short sample resume created using the Department of the Navy’s online Resume Builder Format. - 30 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Sample Department of the Navy Resume Builder Wyle E. Coyote SSN: 000-00-0000 1111 Roadrunner Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 Contact Phone: (760) 123-4567 Fax: (760) 123-4568 DSN: 123-4567 E-mail Address: wecoyote@aol.com Announcement Number: KMP02345 EXPERIENCE: 01-2000 to present; 40 hours per week; Electrician; WG-2805-10; last promoted 01-2000; temporary employee; on temporary promotion; Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard, 123 Wahoo Circle, Honolulu, HI 96818; Mr. Fred Smith, (808) 474-3344; may contact supervisor. Performed various tasks necessary to fabricate, assemble, install, overhaul, test, troubleshoot, and complete final operational check-out of electrical motors and equipment, electrical harnesses, junction box assemblies, panel assemblies, relays, electrical systems. Conducted continuity and power checks on electrical harnesses in conjunction with continuity checks; working to verbal or written specifications utilizing blueprints, wiring diagrams, and work sketches as assigned. 04-1985 to 01-2000; 40 hours per week; Engine Mechanic; $14.92 per hour; last promoted 12-1998; permanent employee; not on a temporary promotion; Boeing, Seattle WA 98124; Mr. John Doe, (206) 333-3333; may contact supervisor. Performed trouble diagnosis and repair of airplane engines. Work included engine assemblies and accessories. Was responsible for modifying, adjusting, troubleshooting, disassembling and assembling, engines, parts, components and accessories. EDUCATION: Sparks High School, 1981, H.S. Diploma University of Nevada, Reno, NV; B.S. in Engineering, 1985; 3.4 out of 4.0 GPA; 180 quarter hours. PROFESSIONAL TRAINING: [List any courses that you have completed and consider relevant to your career goals. Include course name, length, and completion date.] PROFESSIONAL LICENSES/CERTIFICATES: [List current licenses, certificates, and/or contracting warrants. Identify the city and/or state of certification, and expiration date, if any. PERFORMANCE RATINGS, AWARDS, AND RECOGNITIONS: [List current performance ratings, awards, honors, and recognition’s, including date(s) of receipt.] U.S. MILITARY SERVICE INFORMATION: If you have served active duty in the U.S. military other than active duty for training, please provide the following information: For all periods of active duty military service, list dates and branch of service. If you were a reservist called or ordered to active duty, lists dates and branch of service. List any campaign badges or expeditionary medals received. Provide type of last discharge (e.g., Honorable, General, Other Than Honorable, etc.). If discharged prior to full period of active duty, provide reason. If retired military, provide date and rank of retirement. OTHER INFORMATION: Include publications, language proficiencies, memberships in professional organizations or honor societies, membership in Acquisition Professional Community (APC), leadership activities, etc. - 31 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Creating your Own Federal-style Resume You may elect not to use one of the 3 commonly-used application formats described on the previous pages. Instead, you may want to create your own Federal-style resume from scratch. If you create your own Federal-style resume, include all information as required in the OF – 510. The OF - 510 Below is a portion of the OF – 510 which outlines all of the requirements that a federal resume or application must contain including compliance details. You may also download the complete OF –510 at http://www.opm.gov/Forms/html/of.asp. Here’s what your resume or application must contain (in addition to specific information requested in the job vacancy announcement) JOB INFORMATION • • WORK EXPERIENCE • Announcement number title and grade(s) of the job you are applying for. Full name, mailing address (with ZIP Code) and day and evening phone numbers (with area code) • • Social Security Number Country of Citizenship (Most Federal jobs require United States citizenship.) • • Veterans’ preference Reinstatement eligibility (If requested, attach SF 50 proof of your career or career-conditional status.) • Highest Federal civilian grade held Job title (include series and grade if Federal job) Duties and accomplishments Employer’s name and address Supervisor’s name and phone number Starting and ending dates (month and year) Hours per week Salary Indicate if we may contact your current supervisor. OTHER QUALIFIC OTHER QUALIFICATIONS (Also give job series and dates held.) EDUCATION • • High School Name, city, and State (ZIP Code if known) Date of diploma or GED Colleges or universities Name, city, and State (ZIP Code if known) Majors Type and year of any degrees received (If no degree, show total credits earned and indicate whether semester or quarter hours.) • (Do not send job descriptions.) PERSONAL INFORMATION • Give the following information for your paid and non-paid work experience related to the job you are applying for. Send a copy of your college transcript only if the job vacancy announcement requests it. • Job-related training courses • Job-related skills, for example, other languages, computer software/hardware, tools, machinery, typing speed • Job-related certificates and licenses • Job-related honors, awards and special accomplishments, for example, publications, memberships in professional or honor societies, leadership activities, public speaking, and performance awards (Give dates (title and year) (current only) but do not send documents unless requested.) On the next pages is a paper Federal-style resume and electronic / scannable Federal-style resume. - 32 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Sample Paper Federal-Style Resume Wyle E. Coyote 1111 Roadrunner Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 Home Phone: (760) 123-4567 Cell Phone: (760) 123-4568 Fax: (760) 123-4569 E-mail Address: wecoyote@aol.com SSN: Citizenship: Federal Civilian Status: Veterans Preference: Highest Federal Civilian Grade Held: 000-00-0000 United States Office Automation Assistant (GS – 0322-03) 30% Disabled, 10 points GS-0322-03, 09/1997 to 01/2004 OBJECTIVE: Administrative Assistant, NIH, Announcement Number: KMP02345 SUMMARY OF QUALIFICATIONS: Experienced Office Assistant with 12 years diverse administrative experience including: • Budget, payroll and financial management • Personnel coordination, travel, and schedule management • Personnel action reviews • Travel order production, voucher review, funds checking • Type correspondence, reports, financial tables, and personnel reports • Database updating and management • Forms design with Harvard Graphics and other software programs • Keyboard 40 WPM COMPUTER SKILLS: Operating Systems: Word Processing: Internet: Other Business: Windows ’98, ME Microsoft Word, Word Perfect Microsoft Explorer, Netscape, Outlook Express, email management Form Tool, Quickbooks, Harvard Graphics, Enable, and Excel FEDERAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATIVE EXPERIENCE: DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY Defense Contract Management Office Royal Air Force Croughton, United Kingdom Supervisor: Colonel Mike Smith (703) 444-4444 Supervisor may be contacted 09/1997 to 03/2004 40 hours/week Salary: $18,951.00/year Clerk-Typist (GS-0322-03) Managed records and publications distributed to universities and centers internationally Devised spreadsheets to manage equipment and ADP inventories. Skilled in Harvard Graphics to develop slides, charts, and organizational charts Created forms, inventory sheets, and office informational charts. Researched and compiled contract administration data concerning contracts, non-liquidated obligations, completed contracts, and delinquencies. Input contractor information into software for Commanders’ monthly report. - 33 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Wyle E. Coyote, SS# 000-00-0000 BUSINESS EXPERIENCE: WAGNER PLUS SURPLUS 1400 West Florida Avenue, Hemet, CA Supervisor: Self 08/1997 to 01/1999 40 hours/week Salary: $27,863.00/year Store Owner / Operator / Bookkeeper Managed and ran all aspects of a successful military clothing and surplus store, including sales; inventory management and ordering; credit card acceptance and management; sales tax collection and payment, business tax management and payment; annual inventory counts and analysis; rent payment; payroll; and bank deposits and bank account management. Utilized Quickbooks to manage inventory, accounts payable, sales information, new client information, product returns, payroll, and credit cards sales. Set up the Quickbooks system in addition to bank reconciliation and cash management. EDUCATION: California State University San Bernardino, San Bernardino, CA Bachelor of Arts – Business Administration – 210 Quarter Hours 2001 Defense Language Institute, Monterey, CA Completed 30 Semester Hours – Intensive Spanish Language Course 1997 Palm Springs High School, Palm Springs, CA Diploma 1992 AWARDS: USAF Outstanding Performance Award, 1997 FOREIGN LANGUAGES: Fluent in oral and written Spanish PROFESSIONAL TRAINING: Maintenance of Air Force Documentation Training, George Air Force Base Customer Account Representative Course, March Air Force Base - 34 - 1995 1994 www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms Sample Electronic / Scannable Federal-Style Resume Wyle E. Coyote 1111 Roadrunner Way Palm Springs, CA 92262 Home Phone: (760) 123-4567 Cell Phone: (760) 123-4568 Fax: (760) 123-4569 E-mail Address: wecoyote@aol.com SSN: 000-00-0000 Citizenship: United States Federal Civilian Status: N/A Veterans Preference: 30% Disabled, 10 points Highest Federal Civilian Grade Held: N/A Objective: Administrative Associate (GS-0301-09), Health and Human Services Administration, Health Resources and Services Administration, Rockville, MD, Announcement #WA-ID-6-0411. Skills & Qualifications: Administrative professional with 14 years experience managing medical office billings, client relations, records management, and office operations. Excellent peoples skills equally good at leading and serving on teams. Outstanding oral and written communication skills. Adept at identifying and solving problems. Proven track record for establishing and reaching goals. Technically proficient in Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, E-mail, and the Internet. Typing speed 60 wpm. Employment History: MEDICAL BILLING ASSOCIATE: October 2000 – Present Maryland Family Practice, 40 hours/week 8000 Rockville Pike, Suite 900, Rockville, MD 20333 Salary: $32,000/year Supervisor: Ms. Sarah Pickering, you may contact at (301) 888-3333 Administer step-by-step collections program for a busy cardiology practice. Track, handle, and follow up with late payments from insurers and patients. Bill secondary insurers. Identify and correct errors in billing and coding. MEDICAL BILLING ASSOCIATE: April 1997 – July 2000 Sports Medicine Associates, 35 hours/week 33 Broadway, Los Gatos, CA 95030, Salary: $14/hour Supervisor: Ms. Connie Locke, you may contact at (408) 770-8333 Managed patient accounts for a large medical practice. Entered and tracked billing charges. Posted payments from patients and third-party sources. Followed up with problem accounts and collections. Responded to heavy volume of calls to and from patients and insurers. Generated and submitted itemized statements. CONSULTANT: June 1994 – November 1998 Recovery Care, 8-10 hours/week 4000 Connecticut Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814, Salary: $15/hour - 35 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms WYLE E.COYOTE, SS# 000-00-0000, page 2 Supervisor: Ms. Anne Kelly, you may contact at (301) 953-8642 Provided support services on an as-needed basis for an organization that provides home health care, particularly for children with chronic disease. Assisted in writing the organization’s policy and procedure manual and job descriptions. Organized orientation programs and in-house training for LVNs, RNs, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, CNAs, and home health aides. MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST: February 1993 – February 1997 Roger Williams, M.D. (Dermatology), 40 hours/week 50 Drake Street, Menlo Park, CA 90227, Salary: $12/hour Supervisor: Dr. Roger Williams, you may contact at (650) 222-8844 Served as front desk receptionist for busy dermatology practice. Scheduled and confirmed patient appointments. Called pharmacies for patient prescriptions. Ordered supplies. Authorized patient insurance and followed up on problem accounts. MEDICAL RECEPTIONIST: January 1989 – January 1993 Kate Robinson, M.D., 40 hours/week 88 University Drive, Palo Alto, CA 94304, Salary: $11/hour Supervisor: Dr. Kate Robinson, you may contact at (650) 555-8200 Performed front desk receptionist functions for busy obstetrics and gynecology practice. Handled heavy volume of incoming telephone calls. Scheduled and confirmed patient appointments. Called pharmacies for patient prescriptions. Authorized patient insurance. INTERN, UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY: January 1988 – September 1988 Adult Day Care Centers (ADCC), 30 hours/week Community Services, Inc., San Francisco, CA, Salary: None Served as an intern to Adult Day Care Centers. Reviewed delivery of quality health care services focusing studies on legislation, regulations, and policies affecting Adult Day Care Centers. Studied trends. Identified patterns in service delivery, quality management, and financial resource management. Wrote portions of documents that supported funding. Assisted in the writing and implementation of multiple grant proposals. Education: Bachelor of Arts, Psychology. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 1990. Diploma. Great Lakes High School, Highland, MI, 1985. NOTE: Paper Federal-style resumes is a hard-copy, printed document that can be submitted in person or by mail. It can contain special characteristics such as special fonts, bold, italics, bullets, underlining, etc. Electronic / Scannable Federal-style resumes can be copied and pasted into a resume builder or the textbox of an email to an HR office. You will left-align the entire document and will not include any of the aforementioned special characteristics - 36 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms The Quick & Easy Federal Jobs Kit If you are serious about your Federal job search, obtaining the Quick & Easy software is the wisest investment that you can make. Visit the Quick & Easy website at http://www.federaljobs.com/fjk/overview.htm for more information or to order. The software is worth $49.95 and is well worth it. Below is a list of Quick & Easy’s main features: • • • • • • • • • • • • • The ready-to-use automated forms look just like the official forms. Entered information automatically transfers between related fields, even on different forms. For example: An SF 171 can become an OF 612 and back again...if you have completed one form, you've completed them all! Applicable information also transfers to and from forms and resumes. The built-in database allows reuse of entered information over and over again, at any time. Fed Res 2001(tm) Resume Processor is included with the Federal Jobs Kit. Build and optimize your resume to comply with eight different official federal formats. Automatically search the internet for federal job vacancies. Built-in word processor with multiple fonts, bold, underlining, italics and bullets. All form fields support unique fonts and font sizes. Spell-check and thesaurus are included. Built-in faxing of resume and forms. You get all the major forms. Continuations automatically calculate, format, and print for information that won't fit on the base form. All applicable headers, page and social security numbers transfer to continuations and extra pages. Built-in Help explains the federal hiring process and how to fill out the forms to your best advantage. Works with Windows 95/98/NT/2000/ME/XP. Four package levels to meet your specific needs: Personal, Family, Office, and Professional. SF – 15 Application for 10-Points Veterans Preference The SF – 15 is a form that you will complete to verify your service-connected disability. Remember that you must include a recent VA Award Letter confirming your present rating. On the following page, there is a blank SF – 15 and specific instructions for completing it. - 37 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms - 38 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 3 – Federal Applications, Resumes, and other Forms - 39 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion KSAs & Background Investigation 4 KSAs ? Isn’t my application enough ? Every Federal job seeker fears them. They are a list of special qualifications that someone has decided you should have in order to fill a particular Federal vacancy. It's not enough that you meet the basic qualifications for the position and have the specialized experience that's required. And it isn’t enough that you have a splendid software package like Quick & Easy that clearly shows your experience and expertise. Now you have to put more time and effort into developing "supplemental statements," a set of responses to additional evaluation factors that may be relevant only to a specific job vacancy. And you have to do it in time to meet an incredibly short deadline. They are the dreaded KSAs ! What are KSAs? When you apply for a Federal position, many vacancy announcements will require additional statements. These statements are known as KSAs - Knowledge, Skills, and Ability statements. KSAs are factors that objectively help to identify the best-qualified applicant from the total qualified applicant pool. They also may be called Selective Factors Job Elements Rating Factors Key Elements TQs (Technical Qualification) Statements Quality Ranking Factors Key Factors Evaluation Factors If they are asked for, you are responsible to meet the special qualifications of each KSA. You are responsible for showing how your education and experience meet the requirements for positions. • • Some agencies have alternatives to KSAs. Social Security Administration, for example, requires you to complete a 150-question exam in lieu of KSAs. Other agencies may not require KSAs at all ! KSAs are separate, additional, and more specific qualifications to questions related to the job you are applying for. KSAs can be anywhere from 1 paragraph to a full page in length depending on your amount of experience. Sometimes the announcement may ask to include answers to the KSAs in your Resume Builder. Other times, announcements will require you to cut and paste your KSA answers in an online application. Bottom line, you will need to read each announcement carefully for the requirements. - 40 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion KSAs can be difficult to address. The average amount of time spent on each set of KSAs is 3 hours. Each KSA will be graded by personnel and are critical in being ranked as "qualified" or "best qualified". Many times, your application or resume is read by computer. KSAs are graded only by personnel. They are both an elimination tool and writing test. Writing Effective KSAs Your KSAs are extremely important. They are the make or break point for many a Federal job applicants. At entry-level to mid-level positions, you will encounter KSAs that ask you to address more basic knowledge, skills, and abilities. Below are commonly-used KSAs: • • • • • • Perform administrative functions Communicate orally Analyze and solve problems Work well with others Independently plan and carry out multiple assignments Plan and organize work Writing KSAs really isn't that hard, even if you don't think of yourself as a great writer. Basic KSAs like the ones above will allow you the opportunity to "weave" into essay format a story that illuminates your communication, technical, and interpretation skills based off of how they directly relate to the job description in the Federal vacancy announcement. The following are some basic tips that will help you accomplish this: 1) Brainstorm before you write, 2) Provide one fantastic example per KSA that is "recent and relevant" to the position and where you have gone "above and beyond" your typical job duties, 3) Ensure that all work history, awards, education, volunteer information, etc. mentioned in your KSAs appears in your resume / application, 4) Write your KSAs in the first person, that is begin your sentences with I, 5) Store your KSAs on computer and reuse these same KSAs for other positions, 6) Use consistent length and format, 7) KSA examples should be specific, not general. Use details like dollar amounts, manhours, percentages, numbers, and volume to describe your accomplishments. How much time or money did your improvements save over the old way of doing things? What's the percentage of improvement? What's the volume (number) of applications, cases, contracts, etc. that you or your office handles per day, per week, per month? Is this an improvement? If so, how much? 8) Use KSAs to paint a specific picture in the reader's mind of the size and scope of your accomplishments. For example, managing a computer network in a single office with - 41 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion one server and 10 clients (end-users) is very different than managing a network spread across several building or states with dozens of server and many end-users, 9) KSAs should include paid and unpaid experiences (volunteer work), relevant education (degrees, courses and research projects), awards and recognition’s, Quotes from letters written by people who think you are great., 10) Proofread your KSAs and proofread them again ! 11) Use a format like the one on the next page to compose your KSAs. A Suggested KSA Format The following format will give the staffing specialist and hiring manager readable, interesting and specific examples that they can rate and rank based on the hiring manager’s requirements. • Position - title of your job or role you are playing in this example, • Task – the specific problem or task you had to address, • Action – the specific steps you took to solve the problem or meet the goal, • Result – the outcome or difference that you made. If applicable, add the following section: • Relevant Training - what training do you have that supports this KSA? • Relevant Award or Recognition - did you get an award for this example? Free online assistance with KSAs, go to http://www.resume-place.com/ksa_builder/template/. On the next two pages you will see a very detailed example of a KSA using the format described on this page. - 42 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion Sample KSAs Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration Department of Veterans Affairs Position Title, Series, Grade: Administrative Support Assistant, GS-303, 7 Announcement Number: VA-1-04-0463 Candidate: Wyle E. Coyote Social Security Number: 000-00-0000 I. Position Task Intro ABILITY TO PERFORM ADMINISTRATIVE FUNCTIONS Currently, as a Disabled Veterans Outreach Program (DVOP) specialist for the State of California, I hone my technical proficiency and interpersonal skills to successfully place veterans in employment. In the area of technical proficiency, I was empowered by management to utilize my talents, skills, and experience to rebuild a veterans employment program. Immediately, I established on Microsoft (MS) Word and Excel a documentation system for recording and tracking services to veterans. This system monitored the progress of the program and assisted me in the timely completion of monthly reports to the manager. It also facilitated the identification of eligible veterans for case management services. Finally, the system cut recording time 600% and earned me an invitation to demonstrate its usage at a regional conference. Action In a further effort to strengthen the administrative foundation of the program, I developed automated forms to track and document services to veterans. I designed and conducted MS PowerPoint presentations for 2 monthly workshops. Adhering to agency policies, I composed correspondence templates using MS Word. Frequently, my office utilized my computer and problem-solving skills to coach and mentor staff. My problem-solving skills were relied upon to answer technical questions. Regarding interpersonal skills, I strive to follow professional, business etiquette when interacting with business partners, co-workers, and customers. I developed a vast network of business contacts, a strong reputation as a dedicated co-worker, and an excellent rapport with the veterans community of the Coachella Valley. Result For excellence in computers, I was granted a promotion within my agency to the Information Technology Assistance Group (ITAG). Relevant Training: MS Outlook I & II, Excel I, PC Query and eVIPER (these are unique to EDD) Employment Development Department, San Bernardino, CA Relevant Awards or Recognition: Received recognition for the documentation system that I established. “The system is very detailed, organized, and well-composed.” Veterans Program Support Specialist, State of California - Employment Development Department - 43 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion Wyle E. Coyote Social Security Number: 000-00-0000 Announcement Number: VA-1-04-0463 Page Two II. ABILITY TO COMMUNICATE ORALLY In a prior job as a County of Riverside Veterans Specialist (CRVS), accurate and effective communication played a critical role in placing veterans in employment. Position Task My experiences in communicating orally were through public speaking at job search workshops, military separation briefings, staff training sessions, job fairs, public events, and business mixers. Formally and informally, I marketed veterans work ability to prospective employers. Also, I routinely communicated with partner agencies to render seamless services to veterans. These sharpened communication efforts allowed me to favorably represent veterans by illustrating their skills. A recent successful case involved key elements of communication; listening, motivating, coordinating, and marketing. A discouraged, disabled veteran was in need of a career change since his occupation was in low demand in the local labor market. After assessing the veteran, I sparked his interest in Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC), a local industry in high demand. I coordinated with a partner agency to enroll the veteran in HVAC training. Action Result Upon the veteran’s completion of the training, I developed job leads with local air conditioning companies in an effort to illuminate the veterans skills, strong work history, and newly-acquired training. I scheduled for the veteran an interview with a prospective employer and the veteran was hired the same day with a starting wage of $2 dollars higher than the veteran asked for. Communication played a significant role in every phase of this case. For dedication and supporting agency policy to provide maximum employment and training services to veterans, I was awarded the Disabled American Veterans “CRVS of the Year.” Relevant Training: Case Management Training, Department of Labor – National Veterans Training Institute, Denver, CO. Labor / Employment Specialist, Department of Labor – National Veterans Training Institute, Denver, CO. Relevant Awards and Recognition: Nominated for “CRVS of the Year” Organization: Disabled American Veterans (DAV), Department of California Date: 03/19/04 Reason for award: Recognizing outstanding job service to Disabled Veterans. “…Wyle has demonstrated the dedication and accomplishments for selection as “CRVS of the Year.” Veterans Program Manager, Employment Development Department - 44 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion Application and KSA Review Process You will send your complete application packet including your KSAs directly to the Federal agency. Once in the hands of the agency, a unique application and KSA review process unfolds. The following describes how a Federal human resources department determines your qualifications and rates and ranks your KSAs. Step 1 - APPLICATION REVIEW: A Human Resources Specialist will review your package to make sure you have completed the application correctly (lots of people don't make it past this point). If the application is correct, they will review your resume to decide if you have the basic qualifications for the position. Step 2 - RESUME REVIEW: The Human Resources Specialist will then review your application to determine if the candidate is qualified. You can find this qualification information on every vacancy announcement. Step 3 - KSA RATING AND RANKING: Each KSA will be rated against a “crediting plan”. If your KSAs are well-written with examples, then you will be ranked and place a Best Qualified list. A certificate will go forward to the Selecting Official with a list of Best Qualified candidates. Your KSAs will demonstrate if you can write, if your experience and training fits their needs, and if you can follow directions. Remember, sometimes resumes and applications are searched by computer for the key words required for the position. By including the right keywords found in the duties of the Federal job announcement, your resume will be one of those selected for further review by the hiring authority and you improve your chances of making the Best Qualified group. Understanding the personnel review process and the importance of good KSAs is critical to your success in being hired by the Federal government. - 45 - www.usajobs.opm.gov Section 4 – KSA’s and Conclusion Background Investigation In every Federal position, a background investigation is conducted. Your background survey, criminal record, and credit history will be reviewed. Some forms like the 85p are lengthy and demand specific attention to detail when completing. Read the instructions carefully and consider the following: • The background survey is intense and can take up to 2 years or more to complete! When you fill out the background survey, you must be able to verify all information with an individual, their address, and phone number. You cannot repeat an individual’s name on the survey. This can be very difficult to accomplish. • Your criminal record will be reviewed and depending on the conviction, how long ago, and surrounding circumstances. This may affect your employability. Do NOT lie. Serious offenses such as felonies do not rule you out, but are heavily scrutinized. If the position you are applying for is sensitive or involves public trust, the background check can be as long as 14 pages. • You credit history will also be reviewed and how much emphasis is placed on it will depend on the level of security for the position. The government wants to verify your level of fiduciary responsibility. Bankruptcy or hospital bills that you made an honest effort to pay will not necessarily rule you out, but a bad credit rating may. Congratulations ! You now have the tools necessary to be successful with your Federal job search endeavors. Be consistent, persistent, and apply the knowledge presented in this workbook. Conclusion It is pretty clear to see that the Federal application process can be an overwhelming affair. The reward for your great effort, though, is a promising career working for the largest employer in the country with a higher average wage, greater benefits, and more job security than private industry. Make the decision to dedicate your job search effort toward Federal employment. It will pay large dividends down the road after you become a Federal employee. Good Luck. - 46 -
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