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Getting a Government Job - Frequently Asked Questions
Kyle Stone | GovCentral Contributing Writer
These FAQs are intended to answer some of the most common questions we receive here at GovCentral asking how to land a career as a government worker. We encourage anyone interested in a government career to begin their journey by using the comprehensive guides we have put together. These guides cover everything you’ll need to know on how to separate yourself from the competition in your job search:
Ten Steps to Getting a Government Job – this guide will walk you through the entire process of searching for a job with a law enforcement agency.
5 Steps to Getting a Security Clearance – If your job requires access to classified government documents or if you work in a government-secured facility, you must hold a security clearance.
The Ultimate Government Job Search Tool – GovCentral’s editors have created nuanced ways of sorting and ranking government job listings. Our aim: to inspire you to think differently about your job search.
If after reading the Ten Steps guides, or the FAQs below, you still have questions, please visit the Considering Government Jobs discussion forum and review the past discussions or ask your own question there.
I am not a United States citizen, can I still work for the government?
Laws and hiring policies differ from state to state and agency to agency regarding citizenship requirements. Generally, most departments require you to be either a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident alien. If you have more specific questions regarding citizenship requirements, see this page.
I have a felony conviction, can I still become government employee?
No. Felonies, weather committed as a juvenile or adult, and whether sealed or not, are automatic disqualifiers for a position as a government worker.
How do I search for a government job?
The GovCentral Jobs Center has the largest database of government jobs available on the Internet. Our job search integrates USAJOBS job listings and Monster.com job listings with functionality and features not available on these sites. You can locate openings in your area – for local and state jobs – through our job search engine.
Are there any scholarships available to help me afford a degree which will prepare me for a government career?
If you are attending a program that is affiliated with a college or university, and are receiving college credits for your time at the academy, then you may be eligible to receive traditional scholarships, grants, and/or financial aid. GovCentral has put together a large database of government scholarships, and it is free to use for all GovCentral visitors.
cdfrank
about 1 month ago
2 comments
How does a bankruptcy effect getting or retaining a govermental job? How does it effect getting or retaining a security clearance?
planojones
9 months ago
12 comments
Would anyone care to comment on what exactly the correct meaning of "Qualified and Referred" means?
My concern here in the midwest is; is it possible that particular statement could mean a variety of outcomes, based upon whether its an Air Force Base HR office, or EPA, or FAA or another government agency. Additionally, isn't it true, that certain personnel (those individuals with the selection authority) perhaps a 1st line supervisor, or even the Unit Chief could, interpret the entire process any way they chose? Do candidates who are considered qualified and "Referred" have any percentage of a chance at being selected in the future?
I'm relatively new in the system (haven't really more than a years experience at seriously seeking next higher position or appointment) so, please direct my path the correct way. I've looked for a reference concerning my question on all of the WS I have available only to find that most folks assume they are referred for consideration and expect an interview.