Steps in the federal jobs hiring process
The government hiring process can take a significant amount of time, especially for people who are applying to jobs with strict requirements. Most positions are posted on USAJOBS.gov, the government’s hiring website.
Related: A Guide to Public vs. Private Sector Employment
1. Application
The federal government’s hiring process is distinct from the private sector, requiring a tailored approach to job applications. As an employer, understanding this process can help you effectively evaluate candidates and streamline your hiring efforts.
- Creating profiles and resumes. Job seekers must create a profile on the USAJOBS website and upload or build their resumes within the system.
- Submission process. While candidates prepare their primary applications on USAJOBS, submissions are typically finalized within the specific government agency’s system. This system may prompt additional tasks, such as questionnaires or uploading extra documents, to verify eligibility and qualifications. Employers should ensure their system is user-friendly and clear about these requirements.
- Application monitoring. Employers can track application status through USAJOBS, which helps in managing the recruitment process efficiently.
- Application periods. The duration for accepting applications varies. Some positions may close automatically once a set number of applications is received. Clear communication about these timelines can prevent confusion and manage applicant expectations effectively.
Related: Indeed’s Public Sector Talent Hub
2. Documentation
For federal employers, understanding the documentation requirements involved in the hiring process can significantly enhance your recruitment strategy. Candidates who provide the necessary documents help streamline the evaluation process and ensure compliance with federal hiring standards.
For people who have never worked in the government, this could include educational transcripts or job-specific cover letters. Documents can be uploaded directly to the applicant’s USAJOBS profile for easy access.
Existing federal employees who are applying for other government jobs often have more demanding documentation requirements. They may need to prove their eligibility for the open position using specific forms. For example, before a candidate can secure certain jobs in the Senior Executive Service, they must have Executive Core Qualification documents. Applications aren’t considered complete until all required forms are uploaded.
Documents can be saved in the applicant’s USAJOBS account for use in future job searches.
3. Application review
Federal job postings are open to applications for a specific period of time. Once that period ends, the agency begins to review all submitted applications. Some agencies may use an automated system; others look through applications manually.
When an application is reviewed, it receives a designation: referred or not referred. “Not referred” means that the application was not selected. For these applicants, the hiring process ends—they will not be considered for the position.
“Referred” means that the application is sent to the hiring official. The official reviews the selected applications in detail and determines who to invite for interviews.
4. Interviews
The interview process can be lengthy, especially for jobs with specific eligibility and qualification requirements. As in the private sector, agencies use one or more rounds of phone, video and in-person meetings. Some interviews are one-on-one, while others are conducted by a panel.The agency then contacts successful candidates to initiate an offer.
5. Offers and security clearance
Accepting the initial job offer doesn’t mean that the candidate has secured a job. They must first pass a background check or make it through the security clearance process. The requirements vary considerably based on the duties of the position.
If the job demands a specific level of security clearance, a Clearance Coordinator will typically reach out after the offer is accepted. This person guides the candidate through a series of forms, questionnaires and documents. Then, they run records checks, verify application information and conduct personal interviews. As you can imagine, this process takes time.
If the candidate passes the security checks, the agency will reach out with a final job offer. At this point, the two parties will agree on a start date.
How long does the government hiring process take?
The federal jobs hiring process usually takes several months. The actual length varies by position and agency and depends on:
- Application acceptance period. This window varies considerably from job to job.
- Application review period. According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management, agencies aim to take no more than 45 days to send interview invitations after a job posting closes. However, the process may be considerably longer.
- Interview process. It can take an agency weeks or months to complete all interviews.
- Background checks and security clearance. Depending on the amount of clearance a position demands, it might be several months before the candidate actually starts work. The process often moves faster for jobs that require a simple background check .
Related: How to Reduce Time to Hire with Indeed’s Recruiting Automation
FAQs about the federal jobs hiring process
What is the rule of three in federal hiring?
The “rule of three” is a system the federal government once used to determine which applicants would be considered for a job. Hiring staff used specific criteria to assess applications and rank them in order of their qualifications. However, the hiring manager was only permitted to hire the first-, second- or third-ranked candidates. This practice is no longer in use.
Can federal job candidates negotiate their salaries?
Candidates can typically negotiate their starting salary before they accept a job with the federal government. Federal employees are paid according to the General Schedule (GS). Most government jobs specify a GS grade, but within that grade, there are multiple salary levels.
Do all federal employees need security clearance?
Not all federal government employees need to receive security clearance before they accept a job. Depending on the position, candidates may need to receive one or more of the following:
- Personal identity verification (PIV) credential. The PIV lets workers get into federal facilities and log into information systems.
- National security determination. This determination deems candidates fit for jobs that impact national security.
- Security clearance. This clearance is usually required if the candidate will need to see classified information during the course of their employment.
