I’m not a Criminal Justice, Political Science, or Economics major. How can I work for the government?

You aren’t required to have one of those majors to work for the government. In the government, they actually look for people with a variety of majors because there are so many different sectors you can work for.  If you have a skill and interest, there is most likely a job for you! Go to www.usajobs.gov/ei23.asp to view some of the jobs available under each major.

Aren’t there only a select few who make it into the federal government job sector?

There are specific qualifications and regulations, but that is the same for every job. In 2007, more than half of all the federal government employees retired. You and others like you are needed to fill these open positions! Plus, there will always be openings in the federal government job because it can never go out of business.

Is the pay very good?

Pay does depend on experience and education, which puts most employees with a bachelor’s degree at $20,000-$40,000. Your salary can increase quickly. After just two years working for the federal government, your pay can increase by almost 50%. Even though the pay may be lower to start, the benefits are excellent.

What are some benefits I get by working for the government?

The first benefit that is probably the most significant is the fact that most federal agencies help you pay back your student loans. If you wish to continue on to graduate school, most federal agencies will also help pay for this. You also usually get on-site free child care, excellent health benefits, life insurance, and retirement plans. As a federal employee, you also receive 10 federal holidays off. If you use mass transit, the federal government will help you pay for it or reimburse you for it. If you have to move to a place with a higher standard of living, the federal government will also help you meet these extra expenses.

I am on disability, should I even bother applying?

Yes. Federal agencies highly encourage people who have disabilities to apply.
Will my resume need to be different if I apply for a government job?
If you apply on www.usajobs.gov, all you have to do is fill in the information and it will actually compile your federal government resume for you. Most federal government resumes are longer than your standard resumes, usually more than two pages in length. You may need to complete a Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSA) as part of the application process. Go to www.usajobs.gov/infocenter/resumetips.asp if you need more information about resumes or writing KSA’s.

What will I need to include on my federal government job resume?

This will vary. This is why it is easier to apply through usajobs.gov because you are required to fill in the information needed. If you need additional resources, come to Career Services and look at the government resume resources we have available.

Why should I work for the government, I’ll never get a raise?

Actually, in the federal government, you can advance quite quickly.

Aren’t there only federal government jobs in Washington D.C.?

No, only 16% of federal government jobs are located in Washington D.C. There are jobs throughout the state and overseas.

Are there any government internships?

Yes! Check out www.studentjobs.gov and the “Federal Job Search Guide” worksheet if you need help.