government jobs
Find A Job
How do I find a job in government?
The two main government (civil service) employers are:
- Federal government – Search for free at USAJobs, the official site for Federal government jobs. Federal job opportunities are typically near big cities and large metropolitan areas. Review the Frequently Asked Questions for Federal jobs.
- State and local government – Find open government jobs for the 20 largest metropolitan areas in the country. The links take you to the official agency job postings.
There is no single database of open Federal, State, and local government jobs. Your best chances to find a job should include a search for both Federal, and State and local job opportunities. State jobs are typically near the bigger cities and/or large metropolitan areas. Review the Frequently Asked Questions for State and local government jobs.
During your search, you’ll notice that jobs may be listed as being open and/or promotional. Your application will only be accepted if you meet the qualifications for the job. Open jobs are for those new to the government agency. Open jobs are also typically entry level jobs or for hard-to-fill higher level jobs. Promotional jobs are only for current employees of the government agency. A job may also be listed as open and promotional. This typically means that the job is open for both new employees and current agency employees. However, when filling vacancies, jobs will usually be filled first by current agency employees.
The government job that you want isn’t open for applications?
Most agencies have an exam notification process where you can sign-up on their website to be notified for specific job exams. Use the notification process find a job that you’re interested in. The economy changes and personal circumstances change. Using the notification process ensures that you will have the decision to pursue a civil service job or not. You may use the notification process for as many jobs as you qualify for.
A head start on your government career.
Look for part-time or internship government job opportunities. While these jobs typically don’t start your vesting as a civil service employee, they do give the agency an opportunity to become aware of your abilities and you’ll have a head start on the civil service exam for a permanent job. Better yet, the selection process may only consist of an interview. For agencies with unionized craft employees (utilities, public works, transportation, etc.), apprenticeships may also be available through the respective labor unions. Details and opportunities for a government job will vary with the agency and labor union.
With some agencies after you become a permanent employee and start vesting, you may be able to use your part-time experience and “buy time” to contribute to your retirement.
Most civil service jobs are filled by establishing a hiring list. Hiring lists are established periodically and expire after a fixed period of time. Vacancies are filled by competitive interviews with candidates from the hiring list. With the exception of hard to fill jobs, opportunities to be placed on a hiring list only occur periodically. Nearly every civil service job opening is filled through a civil service exam. An exam may consist of one or more tests such as a written test (multiple choice or essay), application review, performance test, or interview.
You can start your government career even if you can’t find the government job that you want.
Jobs may be offered as open and/or promotional and that most open jobs are entry level. If you meet the qualifications, consider applying for a job that is not in your desired profession. For example, while there may not be an opportunity for an equipment mechanic, there may be an opportunity for a clerk. If you meet the qualifications for a clerk, you can be hired as a clerk and when an opportunity for equipment mechanic opens up, then apply as a promotional candidate for equipment mechanic. Check with the personnel or Human Resources office of the agency that you’re applying to if their rules allow this. Here’s an example of what to ask:
“Once I’ve been hired and pass probation, can I apply for other jobs that I meet the qualifications for and be considered as a promotional candidate?
Typically, opportunities are posted on the employer’s site and/or on a commercial site. The posting, often called a job bulletin or vacancy announcement, provides the information you need to apply, including:
- The title of the job
- The qualifications required for the job which may include years and level of work experience, certifications, licenses, and education.
- How to apply
- When to apply (the time period applications/resumes are accepted)
- Where to submit applications/resumes
The job bulletin or job vacancy notice may also include the following exam information or the information will be provided after your application has been accepted:
- What test(s) comprise the exam.
- When the test(s) will be given.
- Where the test(s) will be given (typically on-line or at a local location).
- What the subjects will the test(s) cover.
Use the terms from the job bulletin or vacancy announcement on your application.
Use the same language and terms to improve your chances that your application is accepted or passes the application review process. You’ll also set the foundation for your civil service interview. Interviewers typically review the job bulletin or vacancy announcement along with your application prior to your interview. Using the same language and terms improves the chances that your application will be accepted and reinforces your qualifications for the position in the interview.