Job Qualifications

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.

 

Entry Level Attorney Positions In the Federal Government

Posted on by David Scholl

Over the past several years, we’ve all read or seen numerous media reports about the ever shrinking pool of attorney positions available to law school graduates.  As a result of the sluggish economy, the private sector legal profession is reorganizing itself in dramatic ways to operate more efficiently in an environment marked by enhanced competition to obtain and retain clients.  In addition to holding down administrative costs and being more amenable to negotiated rates, private law firms are hiring fewer attorneys and contracting out many basic legal services.

There has been overall contraction in the number of new Federal sector attorney positions as well due to the cumulative effect of recent budget cuts and the heightened expectation of doing more with fewer resources. Nevertheless, the Federal government remains a viable employment alternative for law school students and graduates.

Anyone interested in pursuing a Federal sector position should take full advantage of their available law school resources, as well as contacting professors, current agency attorneys, and others willing to share their experiences and insights as to both pursuing an attorney position and what to expect once employed in that position.

What follows is a general description of the most effective ways to obtain that employment.

Legal Intern Position

Many agencies provide internship opportunities to students following completion of the first year of law school.  These internships are either paid or volunteer depending on the agency.  For example, the Department of Justice currently employs approximately 1800 unpaid interns and up to 70 paid interns. The best ways to become aware of these positions and their application requirements are through your law school placement office and the various agency websites.  Agencies commonly attend law school job fairs in order to gather resumes and conduct first-round interviews. Upon completion of a summer agency internship, students often receive opportunities for continued Federal experience throughout the school year.  These internships expose students to the internal workings of a General Counsel’s Office and, in many cases, provide much greater responsibility than they could obtain in the private sector.  Even though the vast majority of these jobs are unpaid, the experience gained can prove invaluable. Perhaps more importantly, students who perform highly during the internship can gain a decided advantage in the selection process for an Honors Attorney or other entry level attorney position upon graduation.

Honors Programs

Several agencies conduct an Honors Program designed to recruit top third-year law students, as well as recent graduates and judicial law clerks.  These Programs typically rotate attorneys through the various areas of agency legal practice over a two year period and offer a salary that exceeds entry-level pay.  Although permanent employment is not guaranteed, many of these agencies use the Honors Program as the primary source for filling attorney positions on a permanent basis.  Each agency website includes a wealth of information about their program details, including when to apply and what to expect if you are selected.  Some of the more notable Honors Attorney Programs are those offered by the Department of Justice, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the Federal Communications Commission, the National Labor Relations Board, and the Security and Exchange Commission.  For detailed information about which agencies offer such programs see this list provided by American University, Washington College of Law.

Entry Level Application

Recent law school graduates, particularly those with germane experience as a law clerk, may also find attorney positions for which they qualify through the usajobs.gov website or on the job postings portal of the particular agency(s).  Since attorney positions are in the “excepted service,” i.e., excepted from competitive examining, agencies may solicit applications through whatever mechanisms they determine to be most efficient including legal publications, newspapers, and job fairs.  Recent graduates may also be able to obtain a legal position through the relatively new Pathways Program. Those hired pursuant to the Recent Graduates portion of the Pathways Program enter a structured developmental program generally lasting one year.  At the program’s conclusion, the participant may be converted to a permanent position assuming successful completion of the requirements and the availability of a position.

In addition to the resources referenced above, please see the extensive information provided at http://www.psjd.org/Careers_in_Federal_Government.

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.

Law Enforcement, Investigation, Compliance, & Inspection Jobs

Posted on by Dennis Damp

The GS-1800 federal investigation occupational group includes positions with duties to administer, advise, supervise, or perform various investigations, inspections, or law enforcement duties. Federal agents and inspectors investigate suspected and alleged criminal offenses against the United States, or perform activities to determine compliance with various federal laws and regulations. The investigation group includes a broad cross section of occupations from general and criminal investigators to customs, immigration, safety and food inspectors and everything in between including securities compliance and air safety.

If you have law enforcement or compliance related experience, an associated college degree, or soon will earn one, there are many opportunities for you to explore. For those who are still pursuing a degree definitely seek out federal agency internships that often end with a full time high paying job. Many law enforcement, investigation, compliance, and inspection job announcements are now available across the country and overseas. Federal, State, and local governments along with private sector companies are competing for qualified applicants. In the federal sector agencies can offer tuition assistance payments of up to $60,000 for hard to fill vacancies as a bonus for signing on with Uncle Sam.

Opportunities are currently available in many fields. A recent search on USAJobs resulted in 1260 job vacancies listed on 103 job announcements, many with multiple locations and positions. For example, the Department of Agriculture is hiring over 1,000 Food Safety and Inspection jobs through June 30th at many locations with a salary range of from $31,628 to $50,932 per year. The Department of Labor is hiring 23 Mine Safety Inspectors at multiple locations and the Department of  Homeland Security is hiring many Transportation Security Officers around the county with a salary range of from $29,422 to $44,134 per year.

To access all available jobs in this group on USAJobs.gov perform the following steps:

  • click on “Advance Search” listed under the blue Search button.
  • Then click on “Occupational Series or Job Category.”  A list of all job series will be displayed on your screen.
  • Enter “1800” in the “Search For Occupation(s)” block and click on enter. This will display “Series 1800” in the  search results box.
  • Click on the check box next to the 1800 entry and click enter.
  • Go the bottom of the page and click on “Search Jobs”

All currently available job announcements for this group will be displayed.

Review the list and click on the title of a job of interest to view the job announcement, qualifications, and application procedures.

Register on USAJobs to start your federal job search. Also, don’t be discouraged if the job announcement qualifications require a BS degree and you don’t have one. Continue reading the announcement and you will find in many cases that the requirement is a BS degree OR 3 years general experience! Many exclude highly desirable jobs because they don’t read the entire job announcement.

The above search is limited to the federal sector, you should also explore similar or related occupations with State and local government and in the private sector.

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.

Federal Jobs For The Disabled Explode

Posted on by Dennis Damp

Recruiting and hiring of the disabled for federal jobs has exploded since 2010 when Executive Order 13548 was signed by the President. In 2010 seven percent of the federal workforce, not including veterans that are 30% disabled, were classified as disabled, today 11.89% or 219,578 workers are disabled and in 2012 sixteen percent of all new hires were disabled.  The Book of U.S. Government Jobs, which covers disabled hiring, is now in its 11th edition and for most of those editions disabled hiring, year after year, hovered around 7%.  This is a dramatic and welcomed improvement offering more opportunities across the board for this group.

OPM recently reported that  people with disabilities were hired at a higher percentage than at any point in the past 32 years according to OPM’s report titled “Employing People with Disabilities in the Federal Executive Branch”.

On July 26, 2010, President Barack Obama issued Executive Order (E.O.) 13548 on Increasing Federal Employment of Individuals with Disabilities, to mark the 20th anniversary of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The goal was to hire an additional 100,000 people with disabilities into federal service over 5 years.  They are well on their way to achieve their objective.

There are many federal job opportunities today for people with disabilities.  The majority of the disabled are employed at the 7, 11, 12 and 13 GS pay grades.  However, the disabled are hired across the board in all pay grades up to and including the Senior Executive Service (SES).  In 2012 most of the disabled hiring was in the GS-5, 7, 11 and 12 pay grades.  The Department of Defense (DOD) and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) are the largest employers of disabled workers.

Many federal agencies work with State vocational rehabilitation agencies (SVRAs), the Veterans Administration, universities and other organizations to identify qualified people with disabilities. Federal employers often attend job fairs and visit college campuses for outreach initiatives to find qualified people with disabilities including disabled veterans in all occupations. Recruitment is through the competitive hiring process or through excepted service appointments if certain qualifications are met.

Applicants locate job announcements and apply direct to the hiring agency for the majority of positions. About 20% of federal job applicants must pass a civil service exam although the vast majority are rated on their work history and education.  Temporary or term appointments are also possible depending on the position.  Temporary appointments generally do not exceed one year with possibly a one year extension if the project you are working on requires additional work.  Term appointments are  a little different and can be filled for up to four years.

Schedule A and B appointments are  reserved for the disabled and are filled for a two year period. If the employee successfully completes a two year program they can be converted to a permanent competitive position.  These appointments are reserved for those with severe physical or mental disabilities. Candidates are given an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to perform the duties of the position or they have been certified by a State vocational rehabilitation agency (SVRA) counselor or the Department of Veterans Affair’s Vocational Rehabilitation Office to likely perform specified duties successfully.

If you are disabled explore your options and review the many programs that Uncle Sam offers.  Review existing outreach programs, apply for all job vacancies that you quality for and don’t give up with your first rejection.  Also, contact a Selective Placement Program Coordinator that agencies have available to help you through the process.  It takes time and patience to apply for any federal job. You have to complete a comprehensive federal resume and follow all of the guidance that is available in the job announcement.

Helpful Resources:

Federal Jobs in the FAST Lane

Posted on by Dennis Damp

Federal recruiting dropped off appreciably over the past couple of years due to cost cutting initiatives within the federal sector. Federal job opportunities are returning and substantially within certain agencies and occupations . It was recently reported that 700 FBI jobs will be filled shortly and other agencies are following their lead.

Many federal job announcements are being posted for openings across the country and overseas. Things are a little different this time around since the Office of Personnel Management (OPM ) changed their USAJobs job listing format a few years ago. When you visited their site, prior to the change, there appeared to be many more federal job listings. They now list jobs with multiple vacancies when appropriate and the number of individual federal job listings has decreased as a result.  It is also a good practice to check for new listings frequently because many jobs, especially ones that typically receive many applicants, are often advertised for shorter periods.

There are abundant opportunities in many occupations now including engineering jobs in multiple disciplines. A recent search resulted in 573 job announcements. many with multiple positions ranging from 2 to as high as 35 just in the first 26 listings. The first 26 federal job listings resulted in 115 job vacancies! One of the Electronic Engineer (GS-0855) job announcements is recruiting at 35 different  locations across the country, in Canada, and overseas.  It’s important to read the job announcement thoroughly and when you have multiple locations you will be asked your preference.  The more willing you are to relocate the better you chances of landing a job. I accepted my first competitive federal  job in a small town in Central Pennsylvania to get my foot in the door and I bid on multiple position to improve my chances. It worked!

Job opportunities are available now in many occupations, just perform a search for the occupation and location you desire and review all of the job announcements of interest.  Other hot occupations:

Each of my upcoming articles will feature current hot careers and job opportunities.  Search by occupation to find jobs in federal, state, and the private sector. You will also find relevant  USAJobs searches for each occupation if you desire to limit your search to the federal sector.

More Information

How to Apply For a Federal Job Step-by-step guidance on how to apply for government jobs

Do I Have to Take a Civil Service Exam? Discover if a civil service exam is required for your occupation

Federal Job Vacancies

Posted on by Dennis Damp

Federal jobs comprise approximately 2 percent of this country’s total workforce and Uncle Sam is this country’s largest employer by far.  If you are out-of-work or looking for a higher paying, benefit loaded, and secure job consider applying for federal job vacancies in your area.  The average salary exceeds $83,000  and when you add pay plus benefits that figure increases to over $125,000 a year compared to less than half that in the private sector.

Federal Job Listings

Federal job vacancies are available in all major metropolitan areas and in many rural locations as well. I started my competitive federal civil service career with the Federal Aviation Administration working at a small airport in central Pennsylvania. You will find federal job listings by occupation and by agency plus OPM offers extensive job search and guidance on their USAJobs site.

Federal Job Announcements and Occupations

You will find federal jobs in almost all occupations, from direct sales to nuclear scientists and everything in between. There are over 900 occupational titles to consider and what most federal job seekers don’t realize is that a published qualification standard is available for all occupations that outlines specific skills, knowledge, experience,  and education required for the position. The qualification standards along with the federal job announcement provide considerable information for the applicant and they should be read thoroughly prior to applying for any job.

Careers and Job Exploration

To locate federal job vacancies and to explore opportunities at agencies in your area visit their web sites:

More Information

How to Apply For a Federal Job
Step-by-step guidance on how to apply for government jobs

Do I Have to Take a Civil Service Exam?
Discover if a civil service exam is required for your occupation