USAJOBS review

How it works

You create a profile, which requires a login.gov account for identity verification, and then build or upload your resumes. You search by occupation, agency, location and pay grade, then open a posting and click Apply. The site guides you through selecting a resume, choosing supporting documents, reviewing your package and certifying that the information is accurate. Federal agencies review applications and contact candidates directly for next steps. Applicants are not charged to apply.

Pros and cons

Who it is for

USAJOBS suits people who want a career in federal service and can invest time in careful applications. It is less useful for quick hiring for hourly work. For state, local and nonprofit public sector roles, see GovernmentJobs.com and Idealist. For tracking public-service benefits or training resources, see CareerOneStop.

Setting up your account and profile

Create your profile early, because identity verification and document uploads can take time. Complete the sections on contact details, citizenship, and military or federal service, since they affect eligibility for some postings. Keep your profile accurate and update it when your situation changes.

You can store several resumes in your account, and you can choose which one to use for each application. Keep a master version with complete job histories and dates, and then create tailored versions for each posting type.

Writing a federal resume that fits the posting

USAJOBS states that a resume uploaded or built on the site cannot exceed two pages. Use the posting's duties and qualifications as a guide, and describe your experience with specific tasks, dates, hours worked per week and results. Include the announcement number when the posting asks for it.

Read the How to Apply section of each posting, because agencies may request a specific document, such as a transcript, a veterans preference proof or a writing sample. Missing a required document is one of the most common reasons an application is not considered. For a more detailed approach to federal documents, see how to apply for federal jobs on USAJOBS.

Timing, status and protecting your information

Federal postings have closing dates, and some close early when the agency receives enough applications. Apply as soon as you have a complete package rather than waiting for the last day. Track your application status in your account, and keep copies of everything you submit.

Only enter sensitive information such as your Social Security number on the official USAJOBS site or in the agency application process linked from it. Be cautious with any messages that offer a federal job for a fee, ask for a payment to process a hiring form or request banking details before an interview. The Federal Trade Commission warns that the federal government does not charge to hire.

Alternatives worth comparing

GovernmentJobs.com lists state, county and city government openings, and many agencies use the same application system. Idealist is useful for nonprofit and public-interest roles. Indeed also lists some government openings, but you should confirm them on USAJOBS or the agency site before you apply.