opm federal resume template

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Writing a federal government resume

This page provides an overview with examples of how to write a federal government resume, which have content and formatting that differ from most private sector resumes.

How to write a federal resume

Written by , external, Amanda Costello , 18F content designer and gummi bear enthusiast, July 2019. (Revised March 2024)

Writing a US federal resume is hard. When I started writing mine, all I wanted was a solid example. What needs to be included, in what order, and what would it look like with real information. This is that example. ( Law and Order chimes )

It can be helpful to think about a federal resume like an academic CV, an overview of your whole career. Also, these are long documents . This is not the place for a 1-2 page resume. When I applied, my resume was 7 pages long; after 5 years at 18F, it’s close to 15 pages.

Below are excerpts from my federal resume, along with details and notes about how it’s written and formatted. I want more awesome folks from all backgrounds and experiences as colleagues. I don’t want the resume formatting or particulars to be a mystery; it’s already a very challenging piece of writing.

General things to keep in mind:

• Pay particular attention to the Specialized Experience section of a federal job posting. These items must be clearly represented on your resume to show you’ve done the work to be qualified.
• New in 2024! Another tactic that’s been successful for me has been making the job posting’s Specialized Experience the headers for duties and responsibilities. Obviously you can’t do this until you’re looking at a specific job, but it can be a good way to organize your work for readability.
• Throw out your formatting. I used CAPS for headers, italics for mission statements, and bullet points. Expect that the bulk of your formatting will be stripped out. No columns, no fanciness. Just write. Hard.
• Speaking of writing: get your words going, and then get more words. I had to submit two writing samples, and that was where I could show off my content strategy particulars. Remember the job of the resume content: clear, straight lines between the requirements and your experience.

Explicit disclaimer: This resume format is what I chose to use in applying to 18F in the US Federal Government’s General Services Administration. It is not the only acceptable format, but is what worked well for me. I currently work as a content designer at 18F, but put this together on my own time, using no government resources to do so. Using this formatting is not a guarantee of consideration. You still gotta do the work.

Want to chat more about this? Shoot me an email at [email protected]

My comments below will all be in text boxes

Resume formatting

AMANDA COSTELLO 123 Lutefisk Street You Betcha, MN 55555

Mobile: 555-555-5555 Email: [email protected]

Availability: April 1, 2024

Job Type: Permanent, Telework Work Schedule: Full-Time

Desired locations:

United States - MN Remote

WORK EXPERIENCE

Workplace name, Unit name if relevant - City, State, Country

Your job title - MM/YYYY to MM/YYYY - Hours per week: xx

Mission statement(s) of the workplace, or summary of the company’s work on a larger scale.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

A paragraph-long description of what the work was overall. Describe your work using a wide scope, leaving the specific details for later.

SPECIFIC TOPIC (e.g. CONTENT STRATEGY)

• Examples are in a bulleted list, each point describing a project or part of a project, or a piece of work that fits the heading, plus matches up with the qualifications/reqs.
• I chose to start each bullet with a past tense verb (Collaborated, Wrote, Managed, Edited), because that’s how I usually write resumes.
• Some of these bullets reference specific things I wrote, and those were included as writing samples with my application.

TECHNICAL SKILLS:

Software you know, tools you use, best practices and methods. This can’t just be a list, but has to have context in your work overview of how and why they were used. Also, please throw Microsoft Word on there because I was once rejected from a job in 2007 because I put “Microsoft Office” and the listing said “Microsoft Word.” Word matching! Seriously!

SELECTED WORK:

• Another bulleted list, this time of URLs related to work I did.
• They had quick little blurbs underneath about what they were, and what I did.
• Photos won’t come through on this resume, so no screenshots or anything.

Work experience example from my 2018 resume

University of Minnesota, College of Education and Human Development - Minneapolis, MN

Lead Content Strategist - 07/2012 to Present - Hours per week: 40

The mission of the College of Education and Human Development is to contribute to a just and sustainable future through engagement with the local and global communities to enhance human learning and development at all stages of the life span. The college is part of the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities, a land-grant high-level research institution, dedicated to generating and preserving knowledge through research, sharing that knowledge through teaching and learning, and apply that knowledge through outreach and public service.

Developed and led college-wide content strategy combining current and prospective student needs with college goals for recruitment and retention. Worked as a member of a cross-functional team including designers, developers, business analysts, marketers, and well as content strategists across 7 academic departments to promote and deliver effective processes and consistent content strategy.

CONTENT STRATEGY:

• Collaborated with college academic departments, research centers, student support offices, and senior leadership to develop a “bottom up” content strategy, prioritizing student needs based on their relationships with academic programs. Assessed content through the lens of recruitment and retention.
• Wrote “Stakeholder’s Guide To Launch,” a two-page reference for the launch of a new college website. By anticipating the top questions stakeholders might field, this guide gave talking points surrounding new features, along with contacts for further questions.
• Served as strategist, editor, and project manager for regular essay series on college diversity and inclusion work, written by academic leadership. This generated authentic, meaningful content and helped stakeholders better understand the time commitment involved in content production.
• Established user-centered college voice and tone guidelines, using “A, but not B” format. This was informed by close work with students in formal and informal usability testing, and brand sort activities with college leadership and key stakeholders.

USER EXPERIENCE (UX) WRITING:

• Combined findings from user research, new graduate student interviews, faculty and researcher focus groups, higher ed industry trends, and analytics to consolidate more than 600 areas of academic research expertise into 111 categories. Categories were deployed across the college for consistent organization and increased findability of research work.
• Developed strategy and standards to categorize and sort 127 academic programs and 111 areas of research expertise. This was incorporated into two web-based tools developed in-house and allowed students to explore college offerings and expertise independent of department. Wrote and edited descriptions for each area, capped at 25 words to promote ease of reading and top-level understanding.
• Planned, edited, and delivered a “Web Writing Best Practices” guide for college content strategists. Formatted as a “one-pager” for printing and pinning up as a reference, this collected links to and recommendations from external tools and guides (Hemingway, 18F, King County Editorial Guide), internal editorial recommendations from the university and college, and voice and tone particulars. Strategists often felt intimidated and overwhelmed by the sheer amount of recommendations connected to good web content; this guide promoted four starting points to improve content: addressing the user (you/your/yours and we/our/ours), employing structured content, concise writing, and using plain language.

USABILITY TESTING AND USER RESEARCH:

• Led and managed annual process of web usability testing, including project kick-offs, stakeholder workshops, scenario development, task analysis, lab and field-based testing, issues analysis, research and recommendation presentations to project team members, key stakeholders and college senior leadership.
• Helped subject-matter expert teams and stakeholders understand their users through research and usability testing methods, defining problems and crafting effective solutions based on both quantitative and qualitative data.

COLLABORATION ON CROSS-FUNCTIONAL TEAMS:

• Contributed to responsive redesign of college website by conducting a content audit, editing student-facing content for an overall 75% file reduction, and migrating updated content to custom-built CMS. Collaborated with design and development teams to create comprehensive style guides, pattern library interface copy.
• Convened monthly “coworking days” among all college web professionals, bringing us together as a team of peers for a day of training, collaborative problem solving, idea sharing, and camaraderie. Set programming, mentored colleagues on presentations, and collected feedback to regularly adjust how our central content strategy was best supporting the specific work of the departments.

ADVOCACY AND OUTREACH:

• Advocated for content strategy best practices to over 30 University departments by regularly meeting with peers and presenting to leadership stakeholder groups. Promoted clear, consistent, user-centered writing from all contributors, even those who don’t identify as “web people,” and facilitated collaboration across organizational silos to increase efficiency and support.
• Consulted with faculty and staff in academic departments outside the college that frequently contributed to content strategy. Regular guest lecturer and student mentor in the Writing Studies program.
• Contributed as one of four subject matter experts to the University of Minnesota’s Content Strategy Self-Help Guide, recommending resources and structuring process for the centrally-maintained system to help contributors at all levels improve content writing and strategic thinking for the web.
• Frequently presented at local Twin Cities-based tech meetups, translating content strategy best practices to adjacent fields such as front- and back-end development, UX research, accessibility, interactive design, and marketing.

Provided strategic content design with skills in copywriting, style guides, plain language, comprehension/reading levels. Conducted usability evaluations using card sorting (OptimumSort), tree testing (Treejack), direct observation user research methods. Worked on a cross-functional team that used Asana, Trello, Slack, Hemingway, pattern libraries, Google Drive, MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, Power Point), and semantic HTML.

• CEHD Academic Programs, www.cehd.umn.edu/programs Developed content and structure for directory/sorting tool
• CEHD Research & Expertise, www.cehd.umn.edu/topics/ Created new content structure around college research, including categories and descriptions
• UMN Content Strategy Self-Help Guide, , external, z.umn.edu/csmap Subject matter expert for update to university-wide guide

VOLUNTEER WORK

MinneWebCon Annual Conference - Minneapolis, MN - www.minnewebcon.org

Conference Director - 10/2011 - 06/2015

MinneWebCon is a two-day web conference in Minneapolis that encourages inclusive grassroots knowledge-sharing. In addition to keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and half-day workshops, our annual conference is a space for speakers and attendees to collaborate, talk, learn, ask, test, and grow.

• Directed volunteer-run tech conference for 200+ annual attendees, bringing local and national speakers to the Twin Cities web community.
• Oversaw event logistics, speaker recruitment and support, partnerships and sponsorships, promotion, and attendee experience with conference committee support and input.
• Introduced speaker mentoring program, pairing conference speakers with an experienced mentor to review slides, practice presentations, and provide support.
• Expanded conference to two-day event in 2012, adding half-day workshops to meet attendee demand for deeper learning.

SELECTED SPEAKING AND PRESENTATIONS

My resume listed about 15 sessions that I thought were relevant to this job. I also had sections on selected publications and selected podcast guest appearances, because those are cool too! The format I use is:

"Title of the Presentation," what kind of session - MM/YYYY Conference Name - City, State, Country

• “How Silos Learn: Working in the Idea Factory,” closing keynote address - 08/2018 (scheduled) PSEWEB Conference - London, ON, Canada
• “Better Stakeholder Wrangling,” half-day workshop - 10/2018 (scheduled) edUi Conference - Charlottesville, VA
• “Better Stakeholder Wrangling,” half-day workshop - 05/2018 Confab: The Content Strategy Conference - Minneapolis, MN
• “Explain Anything to Your Boss & Grandboss,” closing keynote address - 05/2018 Manage Digital Conference - Minneapolis, MN
• “How Silos Learn,” opening keynote address - 10/2017 Digital Project Management Summit - Las Vegas, NV

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities Minneapolis, MN United States Bachelor's Degree MM/YYYY Major: English Minor: Japanese

LANGUAGE SKILLS

Language: Japanese Spoken Level: Novice Written Level: Novice Reading Level: Novice

Name: Jeff Awesomeboss Employer: University of Minnesota Title: The Best Boss Email: [email protected]

• , external, [email protected]

Handbook.tts.gsa.gov

An official website of the U.S. General Services Administration

An official website of the United States government.

Here’s how you know

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• American Rescue Plan
• Coronavirus Resources
• Disability Resources
• Disaster Recovery Assistance
• Domestic Workers
• Equal Employment Opportunity
• Guidance Search
• Health Plans and Benefits
• Registered Apprenticeship
• International Labor Issues
• Labor Relations
• Leave Benefits
• Major Laws of DOL
• Other Benefits
• Retirement Plans, Benefits and Savings
• Spanish-Language Resources
• Termination
• Unemployment Insurance
• Veterans Employment
• Whistleblower Protection
• Workers' Compensation
• Workplace Safety and Health
• Youth & Young Worker Employment
• Breaks and Meal Periods
• Continuation of Health Coverage - COBRA
• FMLA (Family and Medical Leave)
• Full-Time Employment
• Mental Health
• Office of the Secretary (OSEC)
• Administrative Review Board (ARB)
• Benefits Review Board (BRB)
• Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB)
• Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
• Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA)
• Employees' Compensation Appeals Board (ECAB)
• Employment and Training Administration (ETA)
• Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
• Office of Administrative Law Judges (OALJ)
• Office of Congressional & Intergovernmental Affairs (OCIA)
• Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP)
• Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP)
• Office of Inspector General (OIG)
• Office of Labor-Management Standards (OLMS)
• Office of the Assistant Secretary for Administration and Management (OASAM)
• Office of the Assistant Secretary for Policy (OASP)
• Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO)
• Office of the Solicitor (SOL)
• Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP)
• Ombudsman for the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program (EEOMBD)
• Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC)
• Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS)
• Wage and Hour Division (WHD)
• Women's Bureau (WB)
• Agencies and Programs
• Meet the Secretary of Labor
• Leadership Team
• Budget, Performance and Planning
• Careers at DOL
• Privacy Program
• Recursos en Español
• News Releases
• Economic Data from the Department of Labor
• Email Newsletter

Tips for Writing a Federal Resume

Creating a federal resume that brings your qualifications to life and shows that you are a perfect fit for the job can be a challenge. Be sure to demonstrate how your skills, experience, training and education match the employer’s needs. Avoid misspelled words and bad grammar. Following are a few ways to make this easier.

Consider what positions you are interested in and review what qualifications or experience they require by reviewing different types of jobs and job opportunity announcements on USAJOBS . Gather information and begin to build out a description of your knowledge, skills and experience to add to your resume. How you present your skills and experience in your resume will help determine whether or not you are invited to interview for a job.

Attend job assistance training prior to departing the service. Contact your Transition Assistance Center as soon as possible and sign up for a Transition Assistance Program Workshop. If you are not near a Military Transition Center, you may use the services at Transition Assistance Offices operated by the other military services. Use your transition counselors. They have the tools and knowledge you need. If available, get their help in creating your first resume or filling out a draft application. Ask them to critique your work and then make the changes they suggest.

One size never fits all. As you apply for jobs, tailor your resume to the position’s requirements. Study the job opportunity announcement and emphasize the parts of your work history that match the qualification requirements listed there. It is important to portray your knowledge and skills as a match to the requirements of the position and demonstrate the ability to do the job. This is easy to do when you include your results, achievements and accomplishments. Minimize the use of technical jargon or specialized terminology (e.g., military abbreviations) in your resume.

Resumes are generally presented in one of three formats: chronological, functional or a combination of both. Which format you choose will depend, in part, on the type of work you have performed and whether or not you are going to continue in the same field.

• Chronological resumes list work experience according to date, with the current job appearing first. Chronological resumes work well if your career has been progressive and you plan to continue in the same line of work.
• Functional resumes are organized by the skills you have used on the job. Functional resumes work well if you are contemplating a new career, do not have a lengthy work history, or have held a number of different positions because they sell your abilities based on the skills you have acquired throughout your career. Be sure to include relevant volunteer experience.
• Combination resumes both describe your work experience and highlight your skills. Combination resumes usually provide the most comprehensive overview of your career.

Unlike resumes used in the private sector, federal resumes require additional information. For each past job, give the standard information found in most resumes. Your federal resume should include the following:

• Job announcement number, job title , and job grade of the job for which you are applying
• Your full name, mailing address , day and evening phone numbers and home e-mail .
• Country of citizenship , if different from U.S.
• Veterans – Ensure that you attach or upload supporting documentation (e.g., DD214 or Statement of Service if still on Active Duty; SF-15, Application for 10-point preference; and Disability Rating Letter of 30% or more from the VA, if applicable).
• Peace Corps / AmeriCorps VISTA Volunteers – If you are a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, you will need to provide your Description of Service (DOS) to claim non-competitive eligibility for federal jobs. AmeriCorps VISTA volunteers
• Persons with Disabilities (Schedule A) – To verify eligibility for employment under the Schedule A hiring authority, you must provide proof of disability issued by a licensed medical professions, a licensed vocational rehabilitation specialist, or any federal agency, state agency, or an agency of the District of Columbia, or U.S. territory that issues or provides disability benefits. Contact the Department’s Selective Placement Coordinators for help with hiring and accommodation requests.
• Veterans – Keep in mind that your military training may count towards qualifications. Use your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) document (DD Form 2586) to document your training and education.
• Begin with your current position and list all other positions held in chronological order.
• State the job title, starting and ending dates (including month and year), prior employer's name and address (or write "self-employed," if that applies), and major duties and accomplishments. Include any positions temporarily held.
• Show the average number of hours worked per week or simply state "full-time"; salary or wage earned; supervisor's name, address and telephone number; and whether you’re most recent supervisor may be contacted.
• Veterans - Avoid using military job titles or occupational codes. Instead, look at what you did using your Verification of Military Experience and Training (VMET) as a starting point. Employers prefer proven performers, so make sure you know what employers are looking for in comparison to your military work experience.
• Indicate if your current supervisor can be contacted
• Job-related training courses (title and year).
• self-management skills refer to the way you manage yourself on the job (e.g., dependable, resourceful, etc.);
• functional skills are the skills you use on the job or have used in previous jobs (e.g., operate equipment, supervise, analyze, etc.); and
• technical skills relate to specific skills required to perform a described task (e.g., computer programming, accounting, sales, etc.)
• Current job-related certificates and licenses - Make sure you understand the licensure and certification requirements for your job objective.
• Job-related honors, awards, special accomplishments , leadership activities, memberships, or publications.

Once you have spell checked your resume, take a good look at its overall appearance. Is it appealing and easy to read? Is there enough white space? Are the margins appropriate? Have the headings, font and formatting style been used effectively? Keep in mind that your resume is an employer's first impression of you. Make sure it makes the best one possible.

• Review the job announcements carefully for key words
• Use verbs and adjectives (e.g., managed, implemented, created) that match key words identified in the job announcement.
• Eliminate military lingo (use words such as personnel instead of squad or platoon).
• Include your accomplishments; do not be shy, be truthful.
• Focus on the mission of the agency and translate your experiences.
• Your positive attitude and genuine enthusiasm goes a long way.

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock A locked padlock ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Quick Guide to Preparing a Resume For Federal Government Positions

Due to the volume of applications received for any given vacancy announcement within the website, your resume will most likely be processed through an electronic filtering mechanism before being reviewed by a Human Resources Specialist for a qualification determination. Your resume will also be screened according to certain preferences (e.g., Indian Preference, veterans, disability, etc.) and rated based on the extent and quality of your experience, education and training described on the vacancy announcement. It is essential that you tailor the experience listed on your federal resume to the specific position to which you are applying.

Once your application is rated, a quality review will be conducted by Office of Human Capital Management staff and/or a Subject Matter Expert (SME). Resumes are forwarded to the Hiring Manager for interview consideration. Once a hiring decision has been made, applicants will be notified.

Resume Writing

Before you begin, it may be helpful to compile all the information you want to include in your resume. The writing process will be much easier and faster.

It is important to thoroughly review the vacancy announcement for the position you are applying. You should tailor your resume to ensure you include the experience and skills that are required for the position.

What Should be Included in a Federal Resume?

A federal resume calls for some information that is not generally required on a standard resume for private industry positions, and not including the required information may immediately disqualify you from consideration. It is extremely important that you carefully read application instructions and include all required information. Below is an example of a resume for Federal employment:

First and Last Name Address City, State and Zip code Email address Phone Numbers

Special Hiring Authority: (Indian Preference, Veteran’s Preference or Person with Disability - Schedule A ) Federal Experience: ( Yes or No and Indicate Military, Federal or State Gov ) Security Clearance: ( Indicate what level and if it's still active ) OBJECTIVE: To obtain a full-time position in public service with ( Department of the Interior, Indian Affairs as a (Indicate the position including announcement Number if there is one )  

SKILLS SUMMARY: ( Has 3 elements: An introductory paragraph, list of skills directly related to the position, and your skills you have acquired throughout your career, that you want to highlight ) (1st Element: The introductory paragraph - Must be specific and highly detailed for each job series and position you're applying to. You need to outline all the specific skills you have that are directly related to the position you are seeking including Key Words identified in the positions description.) Focused and highly motivated management professional, with 12 + years of extensive experience in Strategic Workforce Planning , EEO , OHR and Diversity Mgt . Utilizing my background in Disability, Accommodations, Business Operations, Project Management, and Statistical Analysis to develop comprehensive programs based on the employment needs and mission of the agency. Deploying metric -based solutions and maximizing our ROI . I'm an innovative and energetic team player, relationship builder, and highly effective communicator. (2nd Element: List of skills directly related to the position and the Key Words you identified - Back up your skill summary with specific examples from you career or education. Identify specific accomplishments, length of time, highlight numerical results and awards derived from those duties and skills. This is the most critical area of the resume. You are relating an activity in your career to that of the position you are applying and showcasing your accomplishments.)

• Develop and create a Strategic Workforce Planning program to ensure were accurately utilizing all available resources. Good Example

• Expert in Equal Employment, Labor and Employee Relations assisting managers and staff in identifying and solving EEO Policy questions on Accommodations, for the past 9 yrs. Better Example

• As Diversity manager I trained a staff of 100+ internal and external personnel on diversity rules and regulations. My efforts resulted in a 70% reduction in violations and improved the overall atmosphere at ABC Co. Best Example (3rd Element: Acquired skills - These are skills you want every employer to know you possess and feel they are what defines you as a model employee. Remember you MUST quantify and qualify every statement you make.)

• Analyze, develop, test and incorporated IT business solutions to enhance business process control and tracking. Good Example

• Supervised, motivated, mentored and lead by example, using experience backed judgment, strong work ethic, and irreproachable integrity, derived from my 12yrs as a Department Manager at ABC Co. Better Example

• Developed and implemented a supply inventory program, which tracked our use of production and office materials. This provided us detailed reports of our available inventory at all times. Allowing us to make more informed purchasing decisions. Resulting in ABC Co. to save 500,000 per year. Best Example

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY Name of Employer Position & Title GS level or Salary and Years of Service From: Mo/Year to Mo/Year; (Indicate if the work was Full Time, Part Time, or Seasonal; provide number of hours for PT or Seasonal work) Write a brief description of your experience/duties, and identify your major roles and responsibilities. Describe in detail each position you held for at least the last 10 years and quantify and qualify each statement). IP: Describe each duty as if you are describing it to someone for the first time. Agencies are not allowed to assume you can or can't do anything. Ex: Cashier: A cashier can perform numerous duties, if you only list cashier we can only interpret that as someone we collected and distributed money). As Diversity Manager I analyze develop and manage programs and projects related to the successful deployment of our department's initiatives. My duties included ensuring we provided an inclusive work environment, free from discrimination and ensuring we met all federal and state regulations. This was accomplished by collecting, analyzing human capital data and statistics from various sources to get an accurate analysis of the programs and work environment we provided our employees.   • Performed labor market Statistical analysis and employment projections locally and nationally to determine our recruitment strategy to ensure we were recruiting from a diverse population. Good Example • Coordinated with the Office of Human Capital and EEO managers to develop programs to improve our diversity in the workplace. Performed detailed analysis of the current workforce, and developed a strategy to ensure we targeted a broader workforce. This had an immediate impact on community relations and a 20% increase in local sales. Better Example

• Diversity manager for the past 7 yrs I was responsible for a staff of 20 employees. I coordinated with our Office of Human Capital to develop and measure recruiting timelines and efficiency, to determine cost per employee hired and accurate return on investment. Identified various key elements related to recruiting and performed a statistical analysis on reducing cost per hire. This lead to a yearly savings of 15% on recruiting expenses. Best Example

ACCOMPLISHMENTS (Identify any areas of your career you feel an employer will get a better understanding of who you are and your additional activities, to included honors received by organizations, exceeding specific goals on projects, etc.)

• 2011 Supervised and managed the Specialty Hiring Programs, including NonCompetitive Direct Hiring Authorities, Military Spouse Employment and Individuals with Disabilities Programs, at the Department of Defense. • 2008 Liaised with union and management on contract negotiations and labor dispute settlements with global manufacturer. Prevented the loss of 200+ jobs and saving the company 1.3 million dollars.

• 2006 The Minority Entrepreneur Network - Assisted 5 minority startup companies in researching, forecasting, and drafting their business plans and applications for small business loans.

• 2005 Restructured vendor contracts for a gross savings resulting in $375K per quarter.

COMPUTER SOFTWARE (List all software and applications you are experienced in and level. Identify formal training and where you received that training)

ADDITIONAL TRAINING (List any formal or informal training including accreditations and number of hours in the specific field)

• I have attended various seminars on EEO compliance and diversity Good Example

• Extensive EEO Compliance Training: Laws & Discrimination, Diversity in the Workplace, Workplace Relationships, EEO Complaints and Resolutions: (80+ hrs of training) Better Example

• Extensive Project Management Training specializing in large scale projects and developing the project plans and schedule. All training was done at the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute (DEOMI) 2002 thru 2011 (120 hrs) Best Example

HONORS AND AWARDS

(Any formal awards you would like to share)

VOLUNTEER WORK & COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

(Depending on the type of work volunteering can count the same as formal on the job experience if related to the position) (2010 - current) I hold Diversity workshops at the ABC community center in Washington DC, 6 times each month. I provide employers with information on developing an inclusive and diverse workforce. Note: volunteer work must include the total # of hours PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS AAPD - American Association of Peoples with Disabilities HAVA - Honored American Veterans Afield NRA - National Rehabilitation Association PMI - Project Management Institute Wounded Warriors Project - Warriors to Work REFERENCES (List at least 3 references including their contact information)

indianaffairs.gov

An official website of the U.S. Department of the Interior

• All Fiction
• Military Fiction
• Historical Fiction
• Mystery & Thriller
• Arts & Crafts
• Fitness and Health
• Outdoor Recreation
• Biography & Memoir
• All Nonfiction
• Kindle Books
• Professional Reading
• For Librarians

Federal Resume Guidebook, Fourth Edition

Description.

Since the third edition of this perennial big seller was released in 2003, the federal government has again completely changed the process for applying for federal jobs. This much-needed overall update includes 30 sample resumes and tips for using the most popular online “resume builders,” which is the predominant method of applying for the abundant and well-paying jobs offered by the federal government—and something no other book covers. The new edition includes strategies and samples for using the following online federal resume builders: • USAJOBS/Office of Personnel Management • Army CPOL (Civilian Personnel On-Line) • Navy DONHR CHART (Civilian Hiring and Recruitment Tool) • Air Force CPOC (Civilian Personnel Operations Center) • Department of Defense OSD • QUICKHIRE • Avue Central • Various federal agencies Key Features • More than 30 sample resumes in actual online builder formats • Tricks for maximizing your resume presentation in a rigid builder format • Hot tips for writing KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities statements) • Step-by-step information on how to apply for federal jobs • New tips on security clearance requirements Working Table of Contents Part 1: Writing a USAJOBS Resume and Other Electronic Federal Resumes Chapter 1: What Is a USAJOBS and Electronic Federal Resume? Chapter 2: Work Experience: The Most Important Section of Your Resume Chapter 3: Education and Related Training Chapter 4: Additional Information Chapter 5: Focusing Strategies: Top Skills and Specialized Qualifications Chapter 6: Keywords for 10 Occupational Series Part 2: Plain Language and Value-Added Lessons Chapter 7: Plain-Language Writing Lessons: Writing Well Chapter 8: Federal Agency Core Competencies Part 3: Questions, KSAs, and Essays in the Resume Chapter 9: New Essay Writing: The KSA Way Chapter 10: Questions and Self-Assessment Answers Part 4: Navigating USAJOBS Announcements: Analysis Strategies Chapter 11: Vacancy Announcement Analysis Techniques Chapter 12: Applying for a Federal Job: Resume Builders Part 5: Special Insight for Targeting Occupational Series Chapter 13: Science, Medicine, and Health Policy: Converting a Curriculum Vitae into a Federal Resume Chapter 14: Information Technology Chapter 15: Contract Specialist, Purchasing Agent, and Business Analyst Chapter 16: Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Chapter 17: Management and Program Analyst Positions Chapter 18: Human Resources Management Positions Part 6: Special Federal Job Seeker Strategies: Executives, Military, and Wage Grade Transitions Chapter 19: Senior Executive Service, Executive Core Qualifications Chapter 20: Military to Federal Resume Conversions Chapter 21: Wage-Grade to General Schedule (GS) Transitions Part 7: Survival and Career Strategies for Promotion Chapter 22: Strategies for Moving Up in Government Chapter 23: Behavior-Based Interview Preparation

OverDrive Read

• ISBN: 9781593574512
• Release date: June 25, 2007
• File size: 52411 KB

OverDrive Read PDF ebook

Careers Nonfiction

Publisher: JIST Publishing Edition: Fourth

OverDrive Read ISBN: 9781593574512 Release date: June 25, 2007

PDF ebook ISBN: 9781593574512 File size: 52411 KB Release date: June 25, 2007

• Kathryn Kraemer Troutman - Author
• Formats OverDrive Read PDF ebook
• Languages English

Why is availability limited?

Availability can change throughout the month based on the library's budget. You can still place a hold on the title, and your hold will be automatically filled as soon as the title is available again.

The Kindle Book format for this title is not supported on:

Read-along ebook.

The OverDrive Read format of this ebook has professional narration that plays while you read in your browser. Learn more here.

Recommendation limit reached

You've reached the maximum number of titles you can currently recommend for purchase.

Session expired

Your session has expired. Please sign in again so you can continue to borrow titles and access your Loans, Wish list, and Holds pages.

If you're still having trouble, follow these steps to sign in.

Add a library card to your account to borrow titles, place holds, and add titles to your wish list.

Have a card? Add it now to start borrowing from the collection.

The library card you previously added can't be used to complete this action. Please add your card again, or add a different card. If you receive an error message, please contact your library for help.

Writing a Federal Resume

Is your resume one page? That’s fine for a private sector job. Your government resume, however, will need to have more detail, and it’s likely to grow to about two to five pages.

Key Components of a Federal Resume

The best way to create a federal resume is to use the resume builder on the federal government’s jobs website, USAJOBS. The resume builder will guide you through the whole process. And you don’t have to stick with one. You can create a resume tailored to fit different positions you apply for. You can also create a searchable, master resume, so HR specialists can contact you if there’s an opportunity that fits your skills and experience.

Building a Federal Resume

Candidate Information A federal resume will ask your citizenship status and most, but not all, positions require you to be a U.S. citizen. You’re also asked if you’ve worked for the federal government before and if you qualify for veterans preference —that is, you’ve served on active duty in the Armed Forces.

Work experience Your resume should list all the relevant jobs you’ve held.

Required : Employer, location, title, start and end date, average hours worked per week, responsibilities and accomplishments for each job you list.

Optional : A supervisor(s) as a reference and salary, although not listing salary doesn’t exclude resumes from consideration.

Education Include information on the schools you attended and the relevant coursework you completed. Only list degrees from accredited schools, or programs that meet the Office of Personnel Management’s standards . Provide as much information as possible to support your case that you’re the best person for the job.

Required : Schools attended and degrees obtained.

Optional : Grade-point averages, relevant coursework, academic papers or projects, key presentations, honors received, other important accomplishments.

Optional Information

For the best shot at a position, provide as much pertinent information as possible in optional sections, including:

Job–related training 

This could include classes, seminars, coursework, certifications or training that relates to the skills and experience the position requires.

References 

Consider listing professional or personal references who can vouch for your character, work ethic and dependability—such as colleagues, classmates and mentors.

Language skills 

Include the languages you have experience in, and your level of proficiency.

Affiliations 

Use this to list professional associations, societies, clubs or other organizations you belong to and to highlight leadership roles and volunteer experiences you’ve had that relate to the position description.

Professional publications

If you’ve been published, include the outlets you’ve contributed to, the publication names and the date your submissions were published.

Additional information 

You can add other relevant information, including awards, leadership activities, public speaking engagements or volunteer experience. You can also add your availability, the type of work environment you seek and your desired location. Even if your interests and desires don’t match the position’s needs, your resume will stay in the running.

FederalJobs.net

• Job Outlook
• Education Requirements
• General Schedule
• Qualifications
• Job Hunters Checklist
• Federal Employee Info
• Agency Listings
• Job Listings
• Resume Services
• Federal Executive Boards
• FAQ’s
• Resume Preparation
• Agency Links
• Job Hunter’s Checklist
• Overseas Jobs
• Law Enforcement Jobs
• Cybersecurity
• Healthcare Jobs
• Jobs for the Disabled
• Student Employment
• Jobs By Occupation
• Agency Job Listings
• Introduction
• Conditions of Employment
• Resume Writing Services
• Security Clearance Jobs
• Airport Screeners
• Border Patrol
• Investigative Group
• Police & Corrections
• Employment Options
• Postal Exams
• Postal Clerks
• Getting Started
• Required Info
• Writing Resumes
• Job Interviews
• Veterans Preference
• Mandatory Testing
• Clerical Test
• 473 / 473E Exam
• Available Jobs
• Job Locations
• Student Loan Payoff
• Job Announcements
• Higher Starting Pay
• Federal Applications
• Keys To Getting Hired
• Interview Prep
• Education & Experience
• Training Requirements
• Civil Service Tests
• Veterans Jobs
• Category Rating System
• College Degrees
• Medical & Drug Tests

Federal Government Jobs

Helping job hunters find, apply for, and land government jobs, writing your federal resume – a free virtual briefing by opm.

• Dennis Damp
• January 14, 2022

Writing a Federal Resume

Many federal job applicants are unaware of the requirement to provide a detailed federal style resume with their application. The federal style resume is typically 3 to 10 pages or more compared to the one page private sector version. The best qualified are selected for interviews and to make that cut you must provide detailed supportive information that confirms your qualifications for the position. Basically, you must provide a work history that highlights what you did in your prior work history to achieved the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) required for the job.

The key to landing a federal job is tailoring your federal resume to the job announcement , now called the Job Opportunity Announcement (JOA) . OPM is offering free (online) hour and a half long briefings to explain each section of the JOA to help applicants identify the right job. According to OPM, “These presentations highlight a 3 part process to assist applicants in writing their Federal resume. Attendees will be shown a real JOA and walked through reviewing the JOA to determine qualifications and interest, identifying the important requirements and then tailoring their resumes with that JOA. Lastly, it will provide a quick overview of the resume builder on USAJOBS.”

The agenda, meeting dates, and times are available on OPM’s web site . Four sessions are initially scheduled for July 28 and 29. Registration is limited to 1500 participants. Other dates will be announced on USAJobs so visit their site frequently if you would like to attend a session.

There are professional services available if you need assistance that provide a free review of your background, previously prepared documents, and job announcement. Those who can put their thoughts on paper logically and have the time to tailor their federal resume to the JOA are able to complete their application on the USAJobs resume builder. Our federal resume sample will help you focus on the task at hand. I suggest completing your federal resume off line on your desktop first. Simply copy and paste what you compiled on your desktop into the resume builder after spell checking and taking your time to compose your resume. Too many rush through the process on the resume builder leaving out key information and the final document may have typos and spelling errors.

If you are interested in a federal job take advantage of OPM’s online virtual briefings and research the process to ensure your application includes the supporting information required to be rated “Best Qualified” for the position.

Helpful Career Planning Tools 

• Applying For Federal Jobs
• Civil Service Exams
• Interview Preparation
• Veteran’s Preference

Visit our other informative site

• http://FederalJobs.net  (Explore occupations, find jobs and application guidance)
• http://federalretirement.net   (Retirement & other federal employee benefits)
• http://www.FedCareerInfo.com (Federal Employee’s Career Development Planning)
• http://PostalWork.net  (Postal occupations and  exams)
• http://www.SearchFedJobs.com   (Consolidated job search)

The information provided may not cover all aspects of unique or special circumstances, federal and postal 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, the postal service 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.

About The Author

How to Write a Resume

Ultimate resume writing guide

How to Write a Cover Letter

Step-by-step cover letter writing tips

• Career Paths
• Free Personality Test
• Should You Quit Your Job Quiz
• Resume Quiz
• Side Hustle
• Search for:
• Build a Resume

Home » Career Advice » Resume Tips » How to Write a Federal Resume (Example and Template)

How to Write a Federal Resume (Example and Template)

Last Updated on February 9, 2024 by Career Reload Team

In the competitive landscape of job applications, a resume isn’t merely a list of accomplishments on paper; it’s a pivotal tool that encapsulates your professional essence and sets the tone for your candidacy. When it comes to the federal sector, this significance is magnified even further. A federal resume is not only a representation of your professional journey but also a testament to how you align with the detailed requirements of federal jobs.

Unlike the standard private-sector resumes, which can often be a brief overview of one’s experience, a federal resume demands precision, detail, and a clear alignment with the job in question. It’s your ticket to being noticed, understood, and selected in a highly competitive environment.

You might also be interested to view more  resume examples by profession »

Federal resume example (Word version)

Federal resumes require more detailed information, and specific formats and resume layouts can vary depending on the agency and position. Ensure you follow the guidelines specified in the job announcement when crafting your resume.

Download Resume Example (docx)

Example of federal resume  (text version)

Here’s an example of a federal resume for the hypothetical position of “Executive Secretary” at a federal agency. Customize this copy and paste federal resume example according to your personal and professional experience.

Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Veteran’s Preference: No Security Clearance: N/A

Job Announcement Number: ES-2023-002 Job Title: Executive Secretary

Resume Summary

With over eight years of administrative experience spanning both the federal and private sectors, have consistently showcased proficiency in streamlining operations and fostering team collaboration. As a Senior Administrative Assistant at the Department of Administrative Services, excel in coordinating executive schedules, enhancing communication channels, and orchestrating large-scale departmental events. Previous role as an Office Manager at Bright Tech Solutions further highlighted expertise in driving inter-departmental collaboration, overseeing administrative operations, and crafting cost-effective travel solutions. Noteworthy achievements include the initiation of a digital appointment system and the successful transition to an advanced communication platform. Committed to operational excellence and equipped with a deep understanding of the federal landscape, well-suited for advanced administrative roles within the government.

Work Experience

Senior Administrative Assistant, January 20XX – Present Department of Administrative Services, Washington, D.C. Grade Level: GS-9 Hours per week: 40 Supervisor: John Doe, 561-123 1234, may contact

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Coordinated and managed daily schedules and appointments for a team of six executive members, ensuring efficient time management and meeting preparations.
• Served as the primary liaison for inter-departmental communications, facilitating seamless exchanges between executive members and other departments.
• Oversaw the preparation and distribution of high-level internal and external communications, ensuring clarity, coherence, and confidentiality.
• Assisted in organizing 10+ large-scale departmental events and conferences, managing event logistics, guest lists, and promotional materials.
• Collaborated with IT teams to implement advanced office software, improving workflow efficiency by 25%.

Accomplishments:

• Developed a digital appointment system that reduced scheduling conflicts by 50%.
• Recognized with the “Star Performer Award” in 2019 for exemplary service.

Office Manager, March 20XX – December 20XX Bright Tech Solutions, Virginia Grade Level: N/A (Private Sector) Hours per week: 40 Supervisor: Jane Doe, 561-123 1234, may contact

• Managed administrative operations for a fast-paced office, overseeing a team of five administrative staff and ensuring seamless daily operations.
• Introduced and streamlined communication channels, improving inter-departmental collaboration by 30%, enhancing project completion rates.
• Orchestrated comprehensive travel arrangements for executives, negotiating with vendors, and crafting efficient travel itineraries.
• Supervised the procurement of office supplies and equipment, working within budget constraints and reducing operational costs.
• Conducted monthly team meetings to identify areas of improvement and implement solutions.
• Played a pivotal role in the transition to a new digital communication platform, reducing communication delays and boosting team collaboration.
• Implemented a cost-analysis system that resulted in a 20% reduction in executive travel expenses.

Associate of Arts in Office Management D.C. Community College, 20XX

Professional Development Course in Advanced Office Systems Virginia Training Institute, 20XX

Skills and Abilities

• Expertise in Microsoft Office Suite and Google Workspace.
• Proficient in managing multi-level executive calendars.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize in a dynamic environment.
• Familiarity with federal government operations and protocols.

Training & Certifications

• Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), IAAP, 20XX
• Advanced Time Management Course, 20XX

Jane Smith Title: Senior Manager Organization: Bright Tech Solutions, Virginia Relationship: Colleague from March 20XX – December 20XX Phone: (555) 765-4321 Email: name@email. com

Format and design considerations

In the diligent world of federal resumes, presentation is paramount. While the content of your resume is king, its design and format are the throne it sits upon. Here’s what you should consider:

• Length and clarity : Unlike private-sector resumes that champion brevity, federal resumes are detailed narratives. Given their length, it’s essential to ensure clarity. Use straightforward layouts, clear headings, and bullet points to enhance readability.
• Recommended fonts, sizes, and formats : Stick to professional fonts like Times New Roman, Arial, or Calibri in sizes 10-12. PDFs are often preferred as they maintain the resume’s formatting across different platforms. However, always refer to the job announcement for specific instructions.
• Importance of proofreading : An impeccable resume is free from grammatical errors and showcases consistency in format and style. Beyond spelling and grammar, ensure clarity in your descriptions. It’s advisable to have a colleague or mentor review your resume to catch any oversights.

What is a federal job?

A federal job refers to a position of employment within the federal government of a country. In the context of the United States, a federal job is a position within the U.S. federal government’s executive, legislative, or judicial branches, but excludes state and local government positions.

Federal employees work in various agencies and organizations that implement and oversee the policies, mandates, and regulations established by Congress and the President. These positions range from those in defense, healthcare, and law enforcement to science, engineering, education, administration, and many more.

Benefits of federal jobs often include:

• Stable employment : Federal jobs tend to offer more job security than many private-sector jobs.
• Competitive pay : Depending on the position and qualifications, federal salaries can be competitive with the private sector, and there are standardized pay scales.
• Retirement benefits : The federal government provides pension plans and benefits for its employees.
• Health and other insurance : Federal employees receive health benefits and often have access to other insurance options at competitive rates.
• Opportunities for advancement : There are clear paths for career progression and opportunities for training and professional development.
• Vacation and sick leave : Federal jobs offer generous leave policies.

It’s also worth noting that federal jobs can be found not only in Washington, D.C., but all across the country and even overseas, depending on the nature and scope of the position.

The primary portal for finding and applying to federal jobs in the U.S. is USAJobs.gov , where agencies post job vacancies, and applicants can submit their applications.

Understanding the basics of federal resumes

At its core, a federal resume serves a similar purpose to its private-sector counterpart: to chronicle your professional experience, education, and skills in a way that presents you as the best fit for a position. However, its specifics are where the differences lie. A federal resume is uniquely tailored to convey information that federal employers seek. It provides detailed descriptions of duties, accomplishments, and even the context of past roles.

Moreover, it adheres to certain specific formats, often being much longer than private-sector resumes. The driving force behind its distinct nature is its aim: to gauge an applicant’s suitability not just through qualifications, but also through the depth of their experiences and their alignment with the federal job’s requirements.

Getting started: pre-resume preparation

Before you even begin typing up your federal resume, there are essential preparatory steps that can make the difference between a good resume and a great one. First and foremost, research is key. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, each federal resume should be tailored to the specific job announcement you’re targeting. This involves closely reading the job announcement to understand what the federal agency is looking for, and ensuring your resume mirrors those requirements.

Next, ensure that you gather all necessary documentation and information. This goes beyond just previous job titles or educational qualifications. Think performance evaluations, recommendation letters, transcripts, training certificates, and more. The more comprehensive your information at this stage, the easier it will be to write a resume that ticks all the boxes for federal employers. Remember, in the federal world, it’s not just about meeting the qualifications; it’s about demonstrating them in-depth.

Essential components of a federal resume

Navigating the intricacies of a federal resume requires a clear understanding of its fundamental components. While some elements may mirror a conventional resume, the depth and specificity are unparalleled. In crafting your federal resume, each of these sections should be approached with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring that you not only meet but also exceed the expectations set by the job announcement.

Here’s a breakdown of these vital sections:

Personal information

• Full name : Present your complete name, ensuring there are no typographical errors.
• Contact details : List an up-to-date phone number and a professional email address. It’s also advisable to include a current address, especially if the job requires locality pay or is location-specific.
• Citizenship : Federal jobs often have strict citizenship requirements, so clarify your status.
• Veteran’s preference : If applicable, denote your veteran’s preference, as this can play a significant role in the selection process, providing certain eligibilities in federal hiring.

Job announcement number and job title

Every federal job announcement comes with a unique identification number, serving as a distinct marker for that specific position. It’s crucial to reference this number accurately in your application. Doing so streamlines the hiring process by allowing managers to swiftly match your resume with the particular role in question.

Furthermore, to emphasize your keen interest and alignment with the role, always replicate the exact job title from the announcement on your resume. This small detail underscores your attention to the exact position you’re pursuing.

Work experience

Unlike conventional resumes, for federal resumes, a thorough job description is necessary, detailing your specific duties and responsibilities in each role. Beyond just listing tasks, spotlight your key achievements, and bring them to life by quantifying them where feasible.

For instance, rather than a vague claim of “managed a team,” be precise and state you “led a team of 15 members.” Additionally, it’s crucial to provide clarity on the duration of each position held, adhering to a month/year format for accuracy and consistency.

It’s essential to list all relevant qualifications, begin with the highest degree you’ve secured. Equally crucial is to prominently showcase any specialized trainings or certifications, especially if they’re explicitly mentioned by the job announcement.

Beyond formal education and certifications, this section can be enriched by mentioning seminars, workshops, or relevant courses you’ve attended. These additions serve to bolster your candidacy, emphasizing your comprehensive fit and preparedness for the desired position.

Skills and abilities

In this part of your resume, make sure it closely matches the job posting. Pull out important words and needs from the job ad and include them in your skills and abilities, showing that you’re really good at those things. Don’t just list out what you can do; show how those skills are directly connected to the job you’re applying for.

Unlike many private-sector resumes, federal resumes usually ask for references. These should be people from your professional life who know your work well and can speak to your skills and qualifications. It’s important to give these folks a heads-up that a federal agency might reach out to them. Also, double-check that you have their most up-to-date contact information before you list them.

Common pitfalls and how to avoid them

When charting the intricate terrain of federal resumes, applicants must be wary of potential pitfalls that can undermine their efforts. One major misstep is crafting a generic resume. Such a resume not only represents a lost opportunity but also fails to underscore the applicant’s unique fit for a specific role. Given that each federal position comes with its own set of distinct requirements, it’s essential to tailor your resume, reflecting not just your qualifications but also how they align seamlessly with the role’s demands.

Another hazard is missing out on key details or entire sections. The omission of crucial information can be severely detrimental. To counter this, adopt a systematic approach, ideally using a checklist that’s in tandem with the job announcement, ensuring every vital component finds its place in your resume.

Lastly, a common oversight is failing to address specific qualifications highlighted in the job announcement. Instead of providing a broad overview, always tether your qualifications directly to the job’s detailed requirements. When a role stipulates a particular skill or experience, it’s imperative to both highlight and delve into these specifics on your resume, demonstrating a clear understanding of what the position entails.

Staying updated

The landscape of federal hiring is ever-evolving. Engage with websites like USAJobs and the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to stay informed. Additionally, consider joining federal job-focused forums or networks where professionals share the latest changes and insights.

Crafting an exemplary federal resume is an investment. It demands time, effort, and an unwavering commitment to precision. However, the dividends it pays—in the form of a fulfilling federal career—are unparalleled. As the federal hiring realm evolves, it’s imperative for applicants to evolve with it. Embrace continuous learning, stay agile, and adapt to the nuanced requirements of federal job applications. Your resume is more than just your professional story; it’s the passport to a world of opportunities in the federal sector.

We’re a team of writers dedicated to providing insights and tips for navigating the professional world. With a collective wealth of experience across various industries and roles, our team understands the challenges and opportunities that come with seeking meaningful work and advancing your career. We help job seekers to better their careers by offering career advice & free resources. Download free Word resume templates and resume templates for Google Docs .

Write a resume that lands more interviews!

Create a job-winning resume in 15 minutes with the help of a resume builder. Get a walkthrough of each section and fill out your resume within minutes.

Others also read

8 Top Canva Resume Templates to Try

10 Career Coaches and Their Best Career Advice

The Do’s and Don’ts of Writing a Recommendation Letter

How to Write an Executive Resume

How to Pass a Pre-Employment Personality Test

Receptionist Resume Example and Template

How to Use Instagram to Boost Your Career

How to Build a Resume for Free

You might also like these free templates.

ATS Resume Template for Word – Jennifer

Download Free Word Resume Template – Riley

2 Column ATS Resume Template

ATS Friendly Resume Template – Free Download for Word

Free Resume Layout for Microsoft Word

Goal Planner

Cover Letter Template with Monogram

Professional Cover Letter Template

Free Modern Resume Template for Word

Free Job Application Tracker for Excel

Resume Checklist

Free Resume Template Download for Word – Farrah

• Resume Writing Guide
• Resume Tips
• Cover Letter Tips
• Job Interview Tips
• Professional Development
• Workplace Tips
• Leadership & Management
• Small Business
• Word Resume Templates
• Google Docs Resume Templates
• Pages Resume Templates
• PowerPoint Resume Templates
• Photoshop Resume Templates
• Word Cover Letters
• Google Docs Cover Letter Templates
• Pages Cover Letter Templates
• PowerPoint Cover Letter Templates
• Photoshop Cover Letters
• Resume Examples
• Cover Letter Examples
• Resignation Letter Examples
• Recommendation Letter Examples
• Worksheets & Checklists
• Business Card Templates
• Personality Test

Username or email address  * Required

Password  * Required

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Federal Resume Examples and Templates for 2024

• Resume Examples
• Resume Text Examples

How To Write a Federal Resume

• Entry-Level
• Senior-Level

Federal Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples

Raheem Richardson  (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio 123 Bedford Avenue, New York, NY, 12345

A Supply Chain Manager with seven years of experience specializing in supply chain management, logistics, vendor management, and fleet management. A proven track record of identifying cost reductions for multimillion-dollar supply chains both domestically and globally.

Eligibility

Country of Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: No VEOA Eligibility: No Availability: December 1st, 2022 Job Type: Permanent Work Schedule: Full Time Target Location: New York, NY

Professional Experience

Supply Chain Manager, Boeing, New York, NY July 2017 – Present

• Manage and prepare 10-15 RFPs and RFQs daily and coordinate all aspects of the procurement process for $15M contracts related to military equipment and aircraft
• Identify opportunities to reduce procurement and delivery costs for contracts by $1.5M-$3M by consolidating customer demand and supply
• Lead a team of 15+ supply chain coordinators, analysts, and procurement specialists to evaluate technical requirements and create scope of work for client RFPs

Supply Chain Manager, NorthEast Logistics Co., New York, NY June 2015 – July 2017

• Managed a fleet of 25+ vehicles valued at $300K, oversaw procurement and fulfillment activities, and ensured a 92% on-time delivery rate for construction materials
• Drove initiatives to enhance fleet management operations, reduce delivery delays, and enhance route planning to reduce fuel and labor costs by $150K per year

Supply Chain Coordinator, Arthur Transportation Inc., New York, NY June 2014 – July 2015

• Provided support to the supply chain manager to identify process gaps, evaluate transportation costs, and evaluate vendor proposals to reduce procurement costs
• Gathered, analyzed, and delivered data to the supply chain team on supplier performance to ensure adherence with contractual agreements and quality standards

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Supply Chain Management University of Syracuse, Syracuse, NY September 2010 – June 2014

High School Diploma Brooklyn Central High School, New York, NY September 2006 – June 2010

• Supply Chain Management
• Fleet Management
• Procurement
• RFPs & RFQs

Certifications

• Certified Business Analysis Professional (CBAP), 2017
• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), 2015

Kevin Morrison (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio 123 Carpenter Street, Philadelphia PA, 12345

An Operations Manager with nine years of experience specializing in cross-functional leadership, human resources, team management, and process improvement. A strong history of leading diverse teams to ensure operational excellence across high traffic airports.

Country of Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: 5-point Preference VEOA Eligibility: Yes Availability: December 1st, 2022 Job Type: Permanent Work Schedule: Full Time Target Location: Philadelphia, PA

General Manager, Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia, PA July 2017 – Present

• Oversee daily operations for a high-traffic airport with over 5K passengers, manage over $150M in annual P&L, and ensure the safety of passengers, flight crews, and personnel
• Manage over 200+ personnel across 15 departments, oversee $5M in monthly payroll, and identify opportunities to streamline operations and reduce labor costs by 10%
• Coordinate the delivery of cultural awareness and racial sensitivity to all personnel to promote diversity and prevent discrimination

Operations Manager, Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia, PA June 2014 – July 2017

• Coordinated with the general manager and operations team to ensure compliance with safety regulations, import regulations, and export regulations across the airport
• Managed inventory valued at $1.5M, scheduled maintenance for aircrafts, and ensured optimal staffing levels based on flight forecasts and foot traffic

Warehouse Manager, Comcast, Philadelphia, PA May 2012 – July 2014

• Managed operations for seven warehouses across the Greater Philadelphia area and identified opportunities to enhance driver utilization, optimize route planning, and reduce outbound freight costs by 25% over two years

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Operations Management Temple University, Philadelphia, PA September 2008 – May 2012

High School Diploma North Philadelphia High School, Philadelphia, PA September 2003 – June 2008

• Operations Management
• Cross-Functional Leadership
• P&L Management
• Process Improvement
• Organizational Development

Yaling Zhang (123) 456-7890 [email protected] LinkedIn | Portfolio 123 Congressional Drive, Washington, DC, 12345

A Security Intelligence Analyst with 10+ years of experience analyzing high-level security threats, evaluating political risks, and providing corporate intelligence. A strong history of performing research to gather corporate intelligence across Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Security Clearance

Top Secret Level Clearance, Active

Country of Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: 5-point Preference VEOA Eligibility: Yes Availability: December 1st, 2022 Job Type: Permanent Work Schedule: Full Time Target Location: Washington, DC

Senior Security Analyst, Cadence Intelligence Agency, Washington, DC July 2016 – Present

• Define global research for a global business intelligence firm delivering high-level insights on political risks and corporate intelligence for government security agencies
• Manage, build, and develop a 20-person intelligence research department conducting due diligence and risk analysis on international markets and sensitive political issues
• Perform analysis on confidential financial data and coordinate with the corporate intelligence team to identify trends and uncover fraudulent activity

Business Intelligence Analyst, Centerline Technologies, Washington, DC October 2013 – July 2016

• Managed business intelligence operations for a premiere technology company, translated complex data sets into business reports, and conducted analysis on long-term market and financial trends to support data-driven decision-making
• Identified opportunities to enhance data visualization for corporate leadership by implementing a new dashboard to consolidate business intelligence insights

Business Intelligence Analyst, Desmond Pharmaceuticals, Washington, DC May 2011 – October 2013

• Coordinated with the business intelligence team to perform data analysis on research findings, financial indicators, and forecasting to identify business trends and risks for five pharmaceutical product lines
• Created business intelligence reports for senior management and business leaders

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Business Intelligence George Washington University, Washington, DC, September 2007 – May 2011

High School Diploma Benjamin Banneker High School, Washington, DC, September 2003 – June 2007

• Corporate Intelligence
• Business Intelligence
• Due Diligence
• Political Risk Analysis
• Security Intelligence

Federal resumes follow a unique structure that differs significantly from resumes in the private sector. To create an impactful federal resume, craft an accomplishment-driven document that highlights your career achievements while maintaining compliance with government requirements. Understanding these requirements is essential for obtaining a federal job. We’ll walk you through the unique aspects of federal resumes and provide expert tips to help you land your next big opportunity .

1. Summarize your federal qualifications in a dynamic profile

Unlike a typical resume, your federal resume must include an eligibility section that provides key information for government agencies. When applying for a federal job, provide important details such as veterans’ benefits, eligibility under the Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA), preferred location, citizenship status, desired job type, work schedule, and availability. Failing to include this information in your federal resume could result in your job application being rejected without further consideration of your qualifications.

According to expert recruiter Ernestine Council, those who “join the ranks of federal employees shaping the nation’s future with integrity and commitment embark on a path where dedication meets duty, where service transcends self.”

Eligibility Section Example

Country of Citizenship: U.S. Veterans’ Preference: 5-point preference VEOA Eligibility: Yes Availability: December 1, 2024 Job Type: Permanent Work Schedule: Full Time Target Location: Philadelphia, PA

2. Outline your federal experience in a compelling list

When applying for jobs in the private sector, you may opt to leave off older jobs and experiences that aren’t aligned with your current career goals. On a federal resume, you need to provide a comprehensive timeline of your professional experience. Government agencies typically run very thorough background checks on candidates, and it’s important to understand that all of this information will likely be verified. You aren’t subject to length constraints on a federal resume, so including older positions won’t impact your ability to highlight your most recent experience and achievements.

Federal Resume Professional Experience Example

General Manager, Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia, PA  July 2017 – present

• Oversee daily operations for a high-traffic airport with over 5,000 passengers, manage over $150 million in annual profit and loss (P&L), and ensure the safety of passengers, flight crews, and personnel
• Manage over 200 personnel across 15 departments, oversee $5 million in monthly payroll, and identify opportunities to streamline operations and reduce labor costs by 10%

Operations Manager, Philadelphia International Airport, Philadelphia, PA  June 2014 – July 2017

• Managed inventory valued at $1.5 million, scheduled maintenance for aircraft, and ensured optimal staffing levels based on flight forecasts and foot traffic

Warehouse Manager, Comcast, Philadelphia, PA  May 2012 – July 2014

3. List any education and certifications relevant to federal roles

Put all of your education on a federal resume, including your high school diploma. Also include your GPA, even if it’s below 3.0. Certifications and credentials should be featured prominently, as these may be requirements for certain types of positions. Showcasing certifications is also a good strategy for highlighting your industry expertise and qualifications for government agencies.

• [Degree Name]
• [School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] [Dates Enrolled]
• Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Supply Chain Management
• UNIVERSITY OF SYRACUSE, Syracuse, NY September 2010 – June 2014
• High School Diploma
• BROOKLYN CENTRAL HIGH SCHOOL, New York, NY September 2006 – June 2010
• [Certification Name], [Awarding Organization], [Completion Year]

4. Outline your most useful federal skills and proficiencies

Government agencies utilize Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) just as much as companies in the private sector. Incorporate keywords from the job announcement into your federal resume to achieve ATS compliance. It’s also important to provide specific examples of you using these skill sets and industry knowledge rather than only listing them in your skills section. Below, you’ll find a list of potential keywords across a broad range of industries:

5. Feature volunteerism and community service

On a standard resume for the private sector, you would typically prioritize your industry experience over volunteerism in most instances. Federal resumes are different, however, as community service is important to highlight while applying for government jobs.

Hiring agencies are drawn to candidates with a strong background in public service, so feature relevant volunteer experience on your resume.

How To Pick the Best Federal Resume Template

For federal resumes, select a well-organized, straightforward template that uses minimal color. Although modern templates may seem visually appealing, flashy colors and bulky graphics are often distracting for hiring agencies. This is especially true for federal resumes, as the hiring manager will be reviewing a larger amount of information in comparison to typical resumes.

Frequently Asked Questions: Federal Resume Examples and Advice

What are common action verbs for federal resumes -.

It’s easy to run short on action verbs as you build your resume. Often, only a limited number of verbs can describe your professional experience and accomplishments accurately. Using the same verbs repeatedly may cause your bullet points to appear redundant. We’ve compiled a list of action verbs to build your resume:

How do you align your resume with a job announcement? -

Federal jobs offer lucrative salaries and benefits, so carefully align your resume with the job announcement to differentiate yourself from the competition. Each announcement will have a detailed description on usajobs.gov , and include specific keywords and qualifications that match the posting.

It’s also important to remember that each job announcement will have a specific grade that varies depending on the level of experience required for the role. Apply for an opportunity that matches your current grade. A higher-level position may require you to take additional measures to ensure your resume is perfectly tailored to that particular job announcement.

What is the best federal resume format? -

Although federal resumes are unique in many aspects, it is best to still employ a reverse chronological approach as you build your document. This ensures your most recent experience is featured toward the top of the resume. A functional resume format needs to be avoided in this instance, as a federal job application is expected to have much more detail than a standard resume.

Craft your perfect resume in minutes

Get 2x more interviews with Resume Builder. Access Pro Plan features for a limited time!

Cover letters can be beneficial for federal job applications. It allows you to showcase other aspects of yourself as a professional that wouldn’t fit in your resume. In the middle paragraphs, mention the government agency and why you’re drawn to apply for the position. This will show hiring managers your vested interest in government programs and initiatives, which may give you an edge over the competition during your job search. For more information, view our cover letter examples .

Frank Hackett

Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW)

Frank Hackett is a professional resume writer and career consultant with over eight years of experience. As the lead editor at a boutique career consulting firm, Frank developed an innovative approach to resume writing that empowers job seekers to tell their professional stories. His approach involves creating accomplishment-driven documents that balance keyword optimization with personal branding. Frank is a Certified Professional Resume Writer (CPRW) with the Professional Association of Resume Writers and Career Coaches (PAWRCC).

Ernestine Council

Expert Recruiter

Ernestine Council is an accomplished chief recruiting executive with over 20 years of experience leading talent acquisition strategies and building high-performing teams across diverse industries. Council has a proven track record of attracting and retaining top talent through innovative recruitment practices and fostering inclusive workplace cultures. Passionate about building engaged workforces, optimizing processes, and driving recruiting excellence.

Check Out Related Examples

Firefighter Resume Examples and Templates

Law Enforcement Resume Examples and Templates

Military Nurse Resume and Templates Examples

Build a Resume to Enhance Your Career

• Create a Resume Guide Learn More
• How to Describe Your Current Job Responsibilities Learn More
• How to List Critical Thinking Skills on Your Resume Learn More
• How to Show Analytical Skills on Your Resume Learn More

Essential Guides for Your Job Search

• How to Write a Resume Learn More
• How to Write a Cover Letter Learn More
• Thank You Note Examples Learn More
• Resignation Letter Examples Learn More

Protect your data

This site uses cookies and related technologies for site operation, and analytics as described in our Privacy Policy . You may choose to consent to our use of these technologies, reject non-essential technologies, or further manage your preferences.

• Resume and Cover Letter

How to Write a Federal Resume

7 min read · Updated on July 30, 2024

If you're searching for a job in the federal government, you're going to need a resume different from the norm.

Writing a resume that gets results is tough. Writing a federal resume? Things just got even more complicated. If you're interested in working for the U.S. government, your traditional resume will need to undergo a serious overhaul to meet the strict application requirements. The rules for writing a federal resume are different than those for a professional resume; from page length to the number of details on your education, the resume format is a whole different game when you have your eyes set on a career in government.

To get a better understanding of the differences between a federal resume and one for the traditional job search, we sat down with TC Paulson, one of TopResume's senior resume writers. Along the way, she shared her top tips for writing a successful federal resume that will help you get the interview and explained how TopResume can help write your federal resume .

TopResume: Why do job seekers need a special resume when applying for a position in the federal government?

TC Paulson: The federal application path itself is a more lengthy, involved, and comprehensive journey, so your resume needs to reflect that. However, it's not just about developing a resume as complex as a government process — there are lots of required elements you won't find in a typical corporate hiring process, and it's important that you include them all.

TR: So a federal resume is different. What does it look like?

TP: First and foremost, you can expect a federal resume to be longer than a private sector one. A typical private-sector resume will be 1–2 pages in length , but to include all the critical data essential for the federal application process you might find yourself needing 3-7 pages for your resume, depending on the length and breadth of your work experience.

Related:   What You Need to Know About Applying to Federal Jobs

TR: What should a federal resume include?

TP: Like any traditional resume, a federal resume is a key tool in the first phase of the job application process. It is designed to showcase that you have the required qualifications for the specific job you are targeting.

A federal resume needs to keep pace with government policies and procedures for hiring, which means following mandated changes required by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). It's important that you redesign your resume so it complies with the core elements required by the majority of government agencies, all while, of course, including unique aspects of each specific job. It should detail the key aspects of your qualifications, including your experience, education, certifications, and any other relevant data. In addition, the header should contain your personal data including your name, contact information, citizenship, Veterans Preference, and federal employment history (as applicable).

Overall, it should contain the following categories of information:

Professional Job History and/or Military Career

This section doesn't start off too differently from a traditional resume: Begin with your experience. List your professional and/or military career history with your role titles, employers' names, and a detailed description of each job so the reviewer knows your daily responsibilities. Be sure to brag about your work experience on your resume to display your individual value. Then, add an extra layer of information to satisfy the requirements for a federal resume, such as the start and end months of each job, your salary, hours worked per week, and your supervisor's' contact information.

While you generally include education and degrees on a traditional resume, a federal resume requires you to dig much further into the details of your educational background. This means your GPA, credit hours earned, date of degree completion, and any awards or special recognition you may have earned along the way. Yep. They want it all.

Relevant Training and Certifications

Earned a certificate? Finished a course or training program? They want to know about it when you're applying to work in the U.S. government. And don't forget to name the granting organization and date you completed the program!

Additional Details

They may not fit into any other category, but they're still necessary to include on a federal resume. If you're part of any associations, have given presentations, or written publications, include these details in your resume. Also, if you speak any other languages or are proficient in certain technologies, include those as well. And last but certainly not least, include a list of references, the nature of your relationship with each person, and their contact information. These can be past supervisors, managers, mentors, or even colleagues — just make sure they're willing and ready to talk you up.

See why federal resumes are longer?

Sample Federal Resume

Click on the image below to view a sample federal resume:

TR: What is a vacancy announcement and why is it important when writing a federal resume?

TP: A vacancy announcement is the federal version of a private sector job posting. Just like we recommend targeting a traditional resume toward your specific job goals, your federal resume should also highlight your qualifications for the specific job you're targeting in your job search. Hiring managers — whether they're working for the federal government or for the private sector — don't appreciate a resume that takes the “jack of all trades” approach. Customize your resume to demonstrate how you're a good fit for the role you're pursuing, and your application will stand a better chance of making it to the top of the pile.

The vacancy announcement is a great place to source the information you'll need to customize your federal resume — in fact, it's required! Because of the strong focus on addressing core elements of specific vacancies or job series, a federal resume must include key details of the vacancy announcement as required by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) and the agency posting the opening. It's important to pay attention to this key piece of information so you can craft the most effective resume possible.

Related:   How to Customize Your Resume for a Specific Job Posting

TR: Is it really necessary to employ a resume-writing service to write a federal resume?

TP: You can certainly write your federal resume on your own, but letting a professional resume-writing service like TopResume do it for you will save you time and, more importantly, optimize your chances of landing the interview. Resume writing is a crucial part of landing the position you want, so why not leave this sensitive and complex job to an expert?

Our federal resume writers are carefully selected to ensure that they are knowledgeable of the general application process for federal jobs, the structure of the USAJOBS website , the elements of a vacancy announcement, and TopResume's resume-writing standards. Armed with your critical information and their expert knowledge of the process, your TopResume federal resume writer will craft a federal resume that will leave you feeling confident in your applications.

TR: What tips can you give to someone looking to use a federal resume-writing service?

TP: Your federal resume will go through a scoring process when you apply for a job. To help you score higher, your federal resume writer will need your help!

Thoroughly review the requirements in the vacancy announcement and select the details and achievements from your background that align with those requirements. As you invest in this service, take the time to provide your writer with comprehensive information, quantifiable data, and specific achievements. With this, your professional resume writer will be able to develop an interview-winning document for you.

After your writer has delivered your final document, the rest is up to you. Follow the directions in the application process and pay attention to additional questions or essay requirements. And of course, be mindful of the application deadline!

Click on the following link for more information on what to include in your federal resume .

Looking for a position in the federal workforce? Hire a TopResume federal resume writer today !

Recommended Reading:

Interesting Jobs: Before He Became President

The Modern Guide to Career Transition

What Makes an Effective Job Search?

Related Articles:

Perfect Resume Guide for Recent College Graduates

Do Hiring Managers Actually Read Cover Letters?

How to Create a Resume With No Education

See how your resume stacks up.

Career Advice Newsletter

Our experts gather the best career & resume tips weekly. Delivered weekly, always free.

Thanks! Career advice is on its way.

Share this article:

Let's stay in touch.

Subscribe today to get job tips and career advice that will come in handy.

Your information is secure. Please read our privacy policy for more information.

• How to Write a Federal Resume: Tips and Instructions
• Federal Resume Guide
• Resume Writing Help

Last Updated on 01/17/2024

It is crucial to follow the rules of the game to find the offer in the federal job market. To understand how to make a federal resume successful and eye-catching, start by going into further depth about what qualifies you for the target role. Your market research matters a lot — it will provide you with significant hints on what keywords and details the recruiter wants to see in such documents.

Whether you are making your first steps as a federal worker or want to upgrade your approach, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, let’s discuss helpful insights about how to organize the information you have to tailor your resume for government jobs to the insider market requirements. Mind the gap!

Need help in writing a resume? Take a look at the best federal resume writing services and military to civilian resume writing services reviews to consider.

Table of Contents

• 1.1 What Does a Federal Resume Look Like?
• 2 Private vs. Federal Job Resumes: What’s the Difference?
• 3.1 1. How Format a Federal Resume
• 3.2 2. Candidate Data
• 3.3 3. Skills Summary
• 3.4 4. Work Experience
• 3.5 5. Education
• 3.6 6. Additional Training
• 3.7 7. Professionals Associations
• 3.8 8. References
• 3.9 9. Language Skills
• 3.10 10. Volunteer Work and Community Roles
• 3.11 11. Professional Publications
• 3.12 View a Federal Resume Sample
• 4 Government Skills for Resume
• 5 Keywords for Government Resume
• 6 How Long Should a Federal Resume Be?
• 7 How to Write a Federal Resume for USAJOBS: Dos and Don’ts to Know
• 8 Common Mistakes When Writing a Federal Resume
• 9 Final Thoughts

What is a Federal Resume?

A federal resume is a kind of resume suitable for a federal job application. Whether you want to enter this labor market in the USA or seek another career opportunity as a current federal employee, customizing this resume for every role you consider is essential.

What Does a Federal Resume Look Like?

Compared to one-page resumes typical for private sector jobs, federal resumes commonly resemble a self-representation story. Given how much in-depth information such a file can provide, underlining and italics in formatting are welcome. It will remind you of an article or a unique type of academic article if you wish.

Please ensure your copy has clear and clean formatting. It is better to prefer a few typefaces for the entire document — one for headings and another for text parts. Say “no” to horizontal lines, images, infographics, and bold fonts. Such files have to be readable and scannable, which is why plain formatting styles are preferable.

Private vs. Federal Job Resumes: What’s the Difference?

Analogically to how private sector and federal sector jobs are distinctive phenomena in the US labor market, requirements for a resume for government employment and in the private workforce won’t be the same. Moreover, it is a huge mistake to underestimate the importance of such peculiarities — your application for a certain position can’t become a universal tool for other offers too. You will only lose scores in your candidate rating and miss out on dream professional opportunities.

Let’s take a closer look at what aspects distinguish a government style resume from its “opponent” in the market. Check the table below for an in-depth insight.

Whatever federal job you have in mind, the target company’s HR specialists have a certain list of criteria that applications must satisfy. By ignoring the distinctive features between federal and private resumes, you are automatically self-excluded from the lucrative job-hunting pool you want to join.

Unlike the case of resumes in the private sector, you won’t be able to take one file and send it to dozens of companies at once. Without a doubt, the governmental resume is the key tool for communicating your experience in the field, as well as your skills and education. Contrary to private resumes, a federal resume is better not to transform into an enlistment of academic certifications and accomplishments.

How to Write a Federal Resume

• any military experience
• relevant training and certifications
• publications or presentations related to a federal job
• list of languages
• information about technical proficiency and association memberships
• list of managers, mentors, colleagues or managers willing to act as references.

One of the most important components in a federal resume is the opening paragraph. This paragraph highlights the candidate’s qualifications, achievements and experiences in an attempt to sell the employer by presenting arguments on why hiring the candidate would be in the company’s best interest.

Finally, a federal resume might also include personal information that is often not included in a civilian resume, such as social security number and salary information.

1. How Format a Federal Resume

You are free to choose whether to represent the information in chronological or reverse chronological order, but the latter is more common. When it relates to structural peculiarity, don’t hesitate to compare different ready-made templates — it will be easier for you to locate one that matches your experiences and skills this way. The basic federal format resume boils down to the following.

The federal resume outline format is a prevalent style accepted by most government agencies . It features:

• ALL CAPS HEADERS
• Small paragraphs
• Few bullet points

To make your accomplishments stand out, list them as one or two sentence paragraphs so that nothing gets overlooked.

Another federal government resume format looks more like a traditional resume. It will use:

• Bold headings in a larger font
• Larger blocks of narrative text to describe work history
• More bullet lists

2. Candidate Data

Aside from personal information about your name and date of birth, please add your citizenship status. It would be great to mention your role in the Armed Forces, especially if you want to get the most out of veterans’ preference in the federal job market:

• Citizenship — one of the first steps of how to create a federal resume is to specify whether you have it or are going to apply for a job under the Work Visa roof.
• Federal experience — indicate any state government, federal, or military position.
• Clearance — if the target position requires access to restricted databases, this status will come in handy. Even if it’s not active at the moment, it will be beneficial to mention the level you reached.
• Special hiring authority — it defines special opportunities for people with disabilities to get better offers in the job market. There are several criteria to check and see whether you are a truly eligible candidate for the deal. If you see a special icon on the hiring platform, it means this paragraph will be a nice bonus. Make you get acquainted with the agency’s clarification about their eligibility ranges.
• Objective — specify your interest in a full-time or part-time position and provide information about the federal and sub-agency behind the offer.

3. Skills Summary

This part isn’t as brief as in a standard job application:

• The introduction — that’s where you enlist all the specific skills for a role you are applying to. Don’t forget to use and highlight keywords to make it more meaningful and attention-grabbing.
• Body — in the second paragraph, complement your introduction with good examples of these skills have helped you perform your duties in practice.
• Acquired sets of talents — here you can describe what other skills you find relevant and will let you establish a nice employee identity in the eyes of potential recruiters for the target role. It is a must to back up your story with excellent examples — be specific with dates and numbers.

4. Work Experience

This part of the government formatted resume provides details about your years of service, position, title, employer, and GS level. Some agencies may also ask you to mention your salary for those positions.

In the Work Experience section of a federal resume, it is important to include several components for each job descriptions or work experience listed:

• The start and end dates, including the month and year.
• The level of experience (e.g. manager, supervisor, etc.) and how long the experience was at each level.
• The average weekly number of hours worked.
• Relevant accomplishments and achievements.
• Related experience and particular experience that addresses the required qualifications.
• In many cases, salary information should be included.

An example of an entry in the Work Experience section of a federal resume is as follows:

Program Manager  June 2003 — December 2018 Hours per week : 40 Salary : $56,000 per year. • Experience #1 • Experience #2 • Accomplishment #1 • Accomplishment #2

Technology enthusiast certified in multiple programming languages with previous security clearance at the Department of Defense desires participation in the vital scientific mission of NASA by executing strategic contract initiatives.

The applicant’s military career information can also be included in this section of a federal resume.

5. Education

High-paying federal jobs vary in terms of education requirements. While some positions are pretty easy to get started, e.g. postal clerks and court reporters, others are more specific about your background as a prospective candidate for several positions in international relations, public administration, science, and other fields. Here you are supposed to write about your college, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree. Specify the years of studies, state, city, and university you graduated from.

6. Additional Training

It is good to mention you have been a regular visitor of online courses, webinars, and offline seminars. To make your statement more confident and convincing, state the center whether these activities took place (like the institute), the number of hours in training, and your accomplishments during the studies.

7. Professionals Associations

Once again, another bullet list will be straightforward and concise enough for an applicant to include in the government resume . For instance, those could be:

8. References

Don’t write

• “References available upon request”
• A list of qualified supervisors, managers, or mentors that will provide information about the candidate’s qualifications, dependability, work ethic and skills.

9. Language Skills

Individuals with high levels of proficiency or fluency in languages, except English, should include this information in their federal resume. This includes the American Sign Language and any spoken language.

10. Volunteer Work and Community Roles

Employers and hiring agencies often prefer candidates with a variety of relevant experience. However, this experience does not only have to come in the way of paid employment. Relevant volunteer work and community service experience can provide valuable experience and demonstrate the skills, which are necessary to do a job . Community roles can also include being a member of the Board of Directors, leading community initiatives or participating in the local government.

11. Professional Publications

Finally, a federal resume should include the titles of any professional or academic publication that the applicant has written or contributed to, including the date of publication.

View a Federal Resume Sample

We have crafted several federal resume samples , approved by hiring managers and certified writers. Take a look and get inspired.

Government Skills for Resume

Provide as much detail as possible. Unlike a private sector resume, you aren’t restricted to a one-page format. If you have a lot of experience to describe, go for it. However, please don’t get it wrong — it doesn’t mean you have to write a poem instead of following the steps of how to build a federal resume . Keeping the data provided concise, coherent, easy to perceive, and in a readable format is crucial.

NB. Check the position’s requirements first and include your education and experience that match an ideal candidate’s qualifications.

Another crucial detail is that you can add any experience you find important to the list of skills. Your task isn’t to boast of your potential but to advertise your expertise in the target field to people who don’t know you and how cool of a specialist you might be.

A good government job resume should inform the recruiter about must-haves and unique skillsets you have. The right strategy will let you ensure your identity and qualifications in the eyes of the company’s HR specialist:

• Accountant — problem-solving, critical thinking, accounts payable, cash flow monitoring, financial needs planning, fixed assets impairment assessment, and so on.
• Medical officer — public health, disease examination and diagnostics, direct patient care, internal medicine, hypertension, etc.
• Registered nurse — record keeping and paperwork, attention to patients’ worries and requests, empathy, clinical procedure knowledge, and counseling.

Keywords for Government Resume

This guide on how to write resume for federal government jobs would be incomplete without tips on including and arranging keywords. It is better to avoid overly stereotypical notions if they don’t match the qualifications this or that position requires. 

You have to ensure HR specialists will be able to perceive crucial facts from your resume quickly and without difficulty:

• Don’t hesitate to capitalize them whenever needed.
• Think about how you distribute keywords in the text. Try to use them as a focal point at the paragraph’s beginning.
• It isn’t compulsory for every part of the resume to be filled in with the targeted keywords. Make their use purposeful and avoid overwhelming the copy with cliche constructions.

There is no universal list of keywords for government resumes . The best practice is to check what terms are relevant for human resources specialists, mechanical engineers, customs officers, etc. individually. Let’s illustrate a few federal jobs and matching keywords for a resume to include:

• Accountant — detail-oriented, forecasting, budgeting, financial reporting, auditing, etc.
• Medical officer — board certification, medical records, clinical research, and healthcare management.
• Patent administrator — patent litigation, intellectual property, patentability, legal writing, and so on.

How Long Should a Federal Resume Be?

On average, three to six pages long will provide you with enough room to write about all the job-related information. How many pages should a federal resume be ? There are no strict requirements for the size of such documents. A lot may depend on your overall career and expertise in the target field.

At the same time, nobody asks you to create a dissertation — no need for ten pages and above. This way, you won’t showcase your expertise qualitatively. More likely, it will seem like you are far from a model employee because of your inability to submit well-structured and revised resumes to federal agencies.

How to Write a Federal Resume for USAJOBS: Dos and Don’ts to Know

It is better to avoid drastic experiments with your approach to resume writing for government jobs . To stay on the safe side, create the right resume format for USA jobs with the USAJobs’ Resume Builder . Here are some considerations to take into account to improve the quality of your government resume :

• Don’t use a passive voice to talk about your past experiences. Once the draft is complete, edit and proofread it to avoid any grammar and other mistakes. With online tools like Grammarly , for example, it won’t be a daunting task for non-experts.
• Your resume writing for government jobs has to be as detailed as possible. You don’t have to stick to the jobs and experiences you were financially rewarded for. The primary goal is to prove your qualifications, so any volunteer positions, college, or sports activities.
• To make things simpler, you can categorize your skill sets and diversify your hard, soft, and language skills.
• Boost your education summary with other qualifications, including leadership activities, honors, publications, training courses, and more.

Common Mistakes When Writing a Federal Resume

When writing a federal resume, it is important to avoid making the following common mistakes that can hurt the candidate’s chances of being hired:

No:  Using the same resume or opening summary for every job .

Yes:   The opening paragraph should sell the applicant and be filled with accomplishments, experiences, awards, certifications and skills the applicant possesses that are directly related to the specific qualifications listed in a job announcement.

No:  Including irrelevant or outdated work experience.

Yes:     Job experience should go back a maximum of 10 years, with a focus on more recent experience.

No:  Applying for job s but not meeting the qualifications.

Yes:   Emphasize your transferable skills.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, preparing a successful government resume depends on how thorough your preparations, data analysis, and market research are. Review job announcements in detail to ensure your application will cater to the target agency’s and position’s specifications. The level of information transparency and quality will also help you get ready for an in-depth questionnaire in a federal job interview. Although the scope of work is demanding in terms of time and other resources, your diligence will surely pay off.

Check Out the Related Articles: 

• How to Choose the Best Resume Writing Service

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *