Author: Betty Boyd

Federal Jobs – My Personal Journey

Posted on by Betty Boyd

There are many employment options available today in the private and public sectors. We hear so much about the traditional job market that it is easy to overlook some of the most lucrative job options. Have you consider working for the federal government? Federal jobs are plentiful and available nationwide if you know where to look.

I worked for Uncle Sam for 30 years retiring in 2012. I started in the acquisition field as a contract specialist and eventually transferred to an IT profession. My first IT job was as an Information Management Specialist and then I moved to an Information Specialist in policy and planning. Both jobs were in the Information Technology Management Series. I ended my career as a Program Analyst in the GS-0343 Series. My career took a few turns along the way, however, it was interesting and I learned quite a lot.

As my career progressed I was given greater roles and responsibilities. I enjoyed serving my country and for me that was one of the most enjoyable aspects of my work and was one of my reasons for getting up each morning.

It too can be your reason for getting up in the morning along with attractive benefits, good pay, and job security. The benefits are generous to say the least and include; life and health insurance, a 401k plan and a Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS), 13 days of sick leave each year, and vacation time, called annual leave in the federal sector, is accrued based on your length of service. You can also save up to 6 weeks of annual leave and sell that time back to the government when you retire.

Job security is another factor to consider and there are less layoffs, called a Reduction in Force (RIF), in the federal government. Promotion potential depends upon many factors including your motivation, credentials, willingness to relocate, and the agency you work for.

Working as a public servant can be very rewarding. How many jobs or careers for that matter, can you say are truly rewarding? There is a satisfaction in knowing that you are an integral part of something much bigger than you are. You are serving the American public and able to work in challenging environments across the country and in so many different occupations. Duty is a certain aspect of working for the Federal Government that goes beyond just showing up for the job each day.

There are many resources for you to explore federal jobs in your area. Start by visiting www.federaljobs.net, the companion web site for the 11th edition of The Book of U.S. Government Jobs. This book and website walk you through the hiring process and provide the information you need to find jobs, complete a professional federal resume, and prepare for the job interview. Also visit www.usajobs.gov, the official recruiting website for the federal government.
Many assume that the majority of federal employees work in the DC Metro area. Fewer than 15 percent of all federal employees worked in or near Washington, DC. You will find offices and federal jobs in all of the major metropolitan areas. Many smaller cities and rural areas have district or local facility offices that offer opportunities for employment across the country and internationally in over 200 countries.

The Federal Government offers tremendous opportunities with over 900 occupations to choose from! From administrative and management to general labor and trades. The baby boomers will be retiring in greater numbers in the next few years, and young people will be needed to fill these jobs. There are many opportunities to take advantage of if you take the time to seek them out. Start exploring the possibilities today.

Helpful Career Planning Tools 

Visit our other informative sites

The information provided may not cover all aspects of unique or special circumstances, federal regulations, and programs are subject to change. Our articles and replies are time sensitive. Over time, various dynamic human resource guidance and factors relied upon as a basis for this article may change. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation and this service is not affiliated with OPM or any federal entity. You should consult with school counselors, hiring agency personnel offices, and human resource professionals where appropriate. Neither the publisher or author shall be liable for any loss or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages.

 

 

Federal Jobs in Information Technology (IT) – Explore the Possibilities

Posted on by Betty Boyd

Information Technology is a constantly growing field and IT Professionals have many options today at their disposal. Explore private sector and federal IT jobs to expand your employment options .

Private Sector IT Professionals versus Public Sector IT Professionals

The private sector employs network administrators, security, and systems analysts. The benefit packages including health insurance, 401k for retirement, sick time, holidays, and vacations can differ greatly from company to company. You must also consider the risk of a layoff, and the promotion potential at a particular company. Certifications and educational requirements are similar for both the private and the public sector.

The federal sector assigns job categories for each occupation and the 2210 job series is specifically for IT jobs. The benefits that the Federal Government offers are generous including health insurance, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) (a 401k plan), Federal Employee Retirement System (FERS), sick and annual leave is accrued based on how long you work for the government. There are less layoffs, called Reduction in Force (RIF), in the federal government and promotion potential depends upon many factors including your credentials, willingness to relocate, and the agency you work for.

2210 Job Series

The Information Technology Management series (2210) is covered by a Job Family Standard (JFS). This article will explore 2 of these federal jobs, the education requirements, and other qualifications.

The Network Services (NETWORK) includes network administrators, LAN/WAN administrator and others. The required education includes High School and experience or a BS degree or higher for an entry-level job. Network administrators can further distinguish themselves with various certifications, such as CompTIA’s Network+, and Cisco’s CCNA. They have to be able to work in various operating systems and computer platforms, as well as do program, design and modify commercial software. The Occupational Outlook Handbook describes the Network and Computer Systems Administrator in detail.

The Systems Administration (SYSANALSIS) includes system administrator, site administrator or UNIX/Windows administrator. The required education is a Bachelors Degree or higher. Systems administrators include more advanced certifications in Microsoft. The Project Management Institute (PMI) has a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. The systems analyst should have knowledge of hardware systems and software applications. The Occupational Outlook Handbook link to this career field provides insightful information about job outlook, working conditions, pay and more.

This is just a small sample of the tremendous opportunities that the Federal Government has to offer in IT. Various agencies can offer the IT professional exciting and challenging jobs. Below is a list of agencies that require highly skilled IT processionals.

U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM)

The U.S. Cyber Command or USCYBERCOM is located in Fort Gordon, GA and is one of the premier places for IT professionals to work. The mission of “USCYBERCOM is to plan, coordinate, integrate, synchronize, and conduct activities to direct the operations and defense of specified DOD information networks. They also prepare to, and when directed, conduct full-spectrum military cyberspace operations in order to enable actions in all domains, ensure US/Allied freedom of action in cyberspace and deny the same to our adversaries.” Here is the link for more information, U.S. Army Cyber Command.

U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM)

NETCOM was realigned in 2014 to a subordinate command under the U.S. Army Cyber Command/2nd Army and their mission is to operate and defend computer networks of the United States Army. Their headquarters are in Fort Huachuca, AZ and they provide direct and indirect support to Army and Joint Coalition forces. Here is the link for more information NETCOM | Home – U.S. Army .

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

DHS is comprised of 22 agencies and was formed after the attacks of 9/11 in 2001. Their mission is to ” prevent terrorism and enhance security; managing our borders; administering immigration laws; securing cyberspace; and ensuring disaster resilience.” DHS is unique because it impacts all sectors, from across the federal government, state, local, tribal and territorial governments, non-governmental organizations and the private sector all help to carry out this mission. Here is the link for more information U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

What the future holds for IT professionals

All agencies across the federal government will have an increased need for IT professionals to keep our networks properly functioning, protect our infrastructure, and defend against cyber attacks.

The Bureau of Labor statics indicates that the estimated job growth (through 2018) in the field of information technology will add approximately 785,700 new jobs. Moreover, it is projected to grow twice as fast as other occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor (BLS), the average wage of a Network Administrator with a Bachelors Degree is about $77,910 and for a Computer Systems Analyst with a Bachelors Degree is about $85,320.

The future for IT professionals in the federal government is excellent. Agencies continue to expand their automation footprint. Having the right education and certifications will make an IT professional stand out. Our infrastructure and computer networks are under constant attack, there will always be a need for good IT professionals to keep it safe. View all IT job listings for your area.

Helpful Career Planning Tools 

Visit our other informative site

The information provided may not cover all aspects of unique or special circumstances, federal regulations, and programs are subject to change. Our articles and replies are time sensitive. Over time, various dynamic human resource guidance and factors relied upon as a basis for this article may change. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation and this service is not affiliated with OPM or any federal entity. You should consult with school counselors, hiring agency personnel offices, and human resource professionals where appropriate. Neither the publisher or author shall be liable for any loss or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages.

Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer Jobs

Posted on by Betty Boyd

In part one of this series, we discussed a brief history of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and its role in protecting our America’s borders. In addition, the U.S. Border Patrol Agent was featured, today in this final part of this two part series, the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer will be discussed. I interviewed two CBP Officers for this second article.

The CBP Officer’s role is different from that of the U.S. Border Patrol Agent. The CBP Officer enforces laws that secure our borders and fight terrorism. They work in airports and seaports examining cargo and passengers at border stations. On the other hand, U.S. Border Patrol Agents track illegal immigration and smuggling primarily along the Mexican and Canadian borders. Both the Border Patrol Agent and the CBP Officer together help to fight domestic and foreign terrorism.

Economics play an integral role in the security of our borders. According to U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Field Operations, they “help drive our Nation’s economic engine by facilitating lawful international trade and travel through the enforcement of hundreds of U.S. laws and regulations ranging from agriculture to intellectual property rights”.

Natalia Papachoris, Chief CBP Officer, GS-13 wanted to become a CBP Officer because it offered her the opportunity to do something that she knew would be a challenge. She stated, “I also knew it would be very rewarding. I knew I would receive invaluable training, and that this career would allow me the opportunity to positively impact many people’s lives. As an officer, I am able to interact with hundreds of travelers every day, and I work with some of the most amazing people from all parts of the country.”

Officer Papachoris gets satisfaction from knowing that all of the work the agency does has a great impact on the nation. She states, ” Of course, everyone hears about the very exciting enforcement work we do, which is outstanding; but we also do so much more! A big part of our job entails facilitating trade and tourism into the Unites States. It is very rewarding to know that the work we do not only keeps bad things and bad people out of the country, but it also has a positive impact on the US economy every day.”

The most rewarding part of her job is that she sees the clear outcomes of her work. Natalia explains that, “whether apprehending and denying entry to a traveler with nefarious intentions or seizing harmful contraband, I know my efforts make a difference. I enjoy the constantly varied challenges that are put in front of me and the ability to be flexible and adaptable to solve the problems. I am motivated by the encouragement I receive to think outside the box and be creative.”

Officer Papachoris would advise people entering the field that, “this job has unlimited opportunities. Not only do we have officers working in most every part of the country, but we have international positions as well. The work we do entails so many different jobs; a new officer will have so many possibilities.”

She further states, “We are the first line of defense on our borders! We are responsible for protecting against terrorists, apprehending individuals who attempt to enter the US illegally; for interdicting illegal drugs and other contraband, and we also protect our agricultural and economic interests from harmful pests and diseases. Most importantly, what other job can offer so much? ”

Tommy Sutton, CBP Officer/Program Manager, GS13 applied to CBP out of a fascination with international travel and the desire to be part of one of the greatest missions in protecting our homeland. He stated that, ” whether returning from an international flight or walking across an international border, I would take notice of the CBP officers performing their various functions and be interested in their work. It was clear that they were applying sharp thinking and expert problem solving to quickly make determinations and follow up possible issues with people and things that might not have been lawful. Further, I liked the thought of being part of an agency and tradition that was nearly as old as our country itself. I felt that being part of CBP would be an exciting career.”

Officer Sutton finds his working for CBP rewarding because he can see the clear outcomes of his efforts. He advises those pursuing employment with CBP that, ” you only live once. You owe it yourself to choose an exciting, fun and challenging career. CBP offers limitless opportunities to pursue throughout your career. Whether you chose to stay here at home or venture out to locations throughout the world, you will be met daily with interesting and important work. You will know that you have tangibly and relevantly had a big part in protecting our homeland and the American people.”

The roles of the CBP Officer and the U.S. Border Patrol Agent are our first line of defense in securing our borders and for our fight against terrorism. The goal of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection is to provide the best possible security, this agency will have a lasting impact by protecting our country. According to the a recent announcement, CBP will hire 2,000 additional officers by the end of fiscal year 2015 to enhance security, help reduce wait times and facilitate growing volumes of legitimate goods and travelers that are critical to the health of our Nation’s economy.

Additional resources:

• The economic benefit of a single CBP officer
• Law Enforcement Jobs

Helpful Career Planning Tools 

Visit our other informative site

The information provided may not cover all aspects of unique or special circumstances, federal regulations, and programs are subject to change. Our articles and replies are time sensitive. Over time, various dynamic human resource guidance and factors relied upon as a basis for this article may change. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation and this service is not affiliated with OPM or any federal entity. You should consult with school counselors, hiring agency personnel offices, and human resource professionals where appropriate. Neither the publisher or author shall be liable for any loss or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages.

 

U.S. Border Patrol Agents – Working for U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Posted on by Betty Boyd

Every time we turn on the news today border control and immigration is a hot news topic. Tens of thousands of unaccompanied children are crossing our border monthly and flooding the already overtaxed customs and border protection services. Major immigration overall is a legislative priority as the new arrivals and the 11 million or so undocumented residents must be dealt with. There are many border patrol job opportunities currently available and many more to come as necessary funding is approved to improve border security.

Have you ever wondered what a U.S. Border Patrol Agent really does?  This article will explore various facets of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) service. With over 60,000 employees, CBP, is one of the largest law enforcement organizations in the world. It’s missions is to keep terrorists and their weapons out of the U.S. while facilitating international trade and travel within the guidelines of our laws. Border Patrol is a department within CBP.

In part one of the series; we will cover what it is like to work for the U.S. Customs and Border Protection service, featuring U.S. Border Patrol Agents. Part two of the series will cover the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Officer.

Prior to1921 border control was not an apparent priority for the U.S. Government.  Things changed when on January 16, 1920, the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, prohibiting the making, importation, and distribution of alcohol beverages became effective. Additionally, the U.S. Government was limiting the number of immigrants coming to the United States.

Because of these two events, protecting the U.S. border was becoming more important and in 1924, the U.S. Border Patrol was established. Its mission is to be “guardians of our nation’s borders”.  Initially the U.S. Border Patrol only staffed  inspection stations and in 1925 seaports were added. Their role has expanded over the years and today, it is called U.S. Customs and Border Protection, which is part of the Department of Homeland Security.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection service is the guardian of our nation’s borders and safeguard the American homeland at and beyond our borders. While living in Arizona, in the Sierra Vista area, (60 miles from the Mexico border), whenever I would travel to Tucson, I encountered several U.S. Border Patrol Agents.  They would inspect underneath the vehicle and ask to see my ID. I was grateful for what they were doing to protect our nation.

A U.S Border Patrol Agent must be a U.S. citizen, have a valid driver’s license, and pass the CBP Border Patrol examination. They must also either know or learn to speak Spanish, and their application is assessed for relevant job-related experiences and achievements.  Review the GS-1896 Qualification Standard for  complete information on how to qualify for positions from entry level to higher grade positions.

Additionally, U.S. Border Patrol Agents must be under 37 years of age, the pay grades go from GS-1896-05 to GS-1896-12, the education can range from high school to a masters degree depending upon the job.  Agents must pass a thorough background check, medical examination, drug test, and fitness test.  New hires are sent for 55 days of training at the CBP Border Patrol Academy in Artesia, N.M. The training includes immigration and nationality regulations and laws, Spanish, physical fitness and marksmanship.  There is an additional 40 days for those who need to master Spanish.

U.S. Border Patrol Agents must work overtime and shift work hours often under very harsh conditions and they are subject to random drug tests. Their assignments can be for a short duration or permanent reassignments to any duty location. Every Agent starts their assignments along the Southwest border. They are ultimately responsible for preventing illegal immigrants from crossing the U.S. border, and can confiscate various items that maybe smuggled into our country.

For this article, I interviewed three U.S. Border Patrol Agents from varied backgrounds; all were GS-12s and they replied to the following questions:

  1. Name of Agent, job title and grade.
  2. Why did you join the Border Patrol?
  3. What is the most rewarding part of your job?
  4. What would you say to a young person that would make them want to      work for the Border Patrol?

Here are the interviewee’s answers:

1.  Name of Agent, job title, and grade.

Jacopo Bruni, Border Patrol Agent, GS-12

2.  Why did you join the Border Patrol?

I always had an interest in Law Enforcement. As a recent college graduate with a degree in Criminal Justice, I was looking for a career that would bring adventure, challenges, and satisfaction. The Border Patrol gave me the opportunity to work in my field of study, to see and live in a new part of the country, and to be part of something bigger: the agency responsible with protecting America at the frontline.

3.  What is the most rewarding part of your job?

There are many challenges in the environment we work in. I have found that if you want to be successful, you must work as a team.  The most rewarding part of my career is taking on a difficult task with a team of hard working individuals with different backgrounds to overcome challenges and accomplish goals.

4.  What would you say to a young person that would make them want to work for the Border Patrol?

If you are an ambitious, hardworking, and persistent person, you are off to a good start, because you will need all these traits to be successful.  Our core values are Integrity, Vigilance, and Service to Country. If these align with your own personal values, you will find this career very rewarding.

1.    Name of Agent, job title and grade.

Michael Scappechio, Border Patrol Agent, GS-12

2.    Why did you join the Border Patrol?

Ever since I was a young kid, I knew, and was told by others, that I would work in public service. I had always considered law enforcement, but began to pursue a path in Emergency Medical Response and firefighting.  When I was 18, I began volunteering for a city fire department. Within the department, I met a Border Patrol Agent who explained his career to me. The pride he exuded for the work he did, and the stories that he told made the United States Border Patrol an instant attraction.

3.    What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Simple. Every day is different, and every day is spent with professionals who share a common goal and passion for their work. I am confident that this career will continue to provide this type of work environment for the long haul. In addition, the laws that we enforce and the strategies that deploy are designed to protect America at the first line of defense. Being a part of the effort to protect this country gives me great pride.

 4.    What would you say to a young person that would make them want to work for the Border Patrol?

I was young when the Border Patrol accepted me into their work force. The agency has provided me invaluable skills such as interpersonal, organizational, leadership and public speaking skills. They trusted me, and judged me by my performance, not my age. They provided me premier training, and continue to do so on a regular basis. Through our valuable mentorship program, and career-growth resources, advancement opportunities continue to present themselves. The sky’s the limit. For these reasons, I feel an overwhelming sense of loyalty and appreciation for my agency. They’ll have to kick me out.

1.    Name of Agent, job title and grade.

Matthew Trombley, Border Patrol Agent, GS-12

2.    Why did you join the Border Patrol?

I wanted to join the Border Patrol because every Border Patrol Agent I ever spoke with really enjoyed their job. The wide range of opportunities the Border Patrol offered really interested me. For example, the average Border Patrol Agent has opportunity to perform a vast array of duties such as line watch duties, checkpoint duties, boat patrol, bike patrol, horse patrol, ATV patrols, sensor duties, prosecutions duties the list goes on.

3.    What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Each day as a United States Border Patrol Agent will present itself with various unknown challenges. Overcoming these challenges and gaining experience how to deal with the next challenge while completing the mission of the Border Patrol is very rewarding.

4.    What would you say to a young person that would make them want to work for the Border Patrol?           

I really enjoy my job with the Border Patrol. The Border Patrol is more than a  job it will be a job you will want as a career and a job that will become a way of life.

Part two of this series is about CBP Officers. Here are several links, one is to a vacancy announcement specifically for CBP Officers, and the other talks about their hiring initiatives:

The men and women of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection are our first defense against our borders from terrorists and others whom may want to do harm to the United States.  Their dedication, loyalty, and integrity are unsurpassed in the fight against enemies both foreign and domestic.

If you are interested in a border patrol job you should explore your options and also consider  related federal law enforcement jobs in your area. Seek out all federal job announcements and apply for any vacancy that you meet the basic qualifications for.

Additional Resources

Helpful Career Planning Tools 

Visit our other informative site

The information provided may not cover all aspects of unique or special circumstances, federal regulations, and programs are subject to change. Our articles and replies are time sensitive. Over time, various dynamic human resource guidance and factors relied upon as a basis for this article may change. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for your situation and this service is not affiliated with OPM or any federal entity. You should consult with school counselors, hiring agency personnel offices, and human resource professionals where appropriate. Neither the publisher or author shall be liable for any loss or any other commercial damages, including but not limited to special, incidental, consequential, or other damages.