I have been applying to federal jobs for six months and have been rejected every time. Is it even possible for non-veterans to get federal jobs? Any tips?

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It is possible, but quite challenging. Your best ways in:

1) Apply on a posting that's using a direct hire authority, that removes vets pref from the equation
2) Be a contractor and have the HM at your agency write a posting specifically for you
3) Have a disability that qualifies you for the Schedule A hiring authority

likehelpful

Well, it’s possible. I just got one; but my background is exactly what they were looking for.

likehelpful

But the other new guy who has the same position as me has no federal background, and didn’t have any connection, and told me he had been applying for a while. So it’s definitely possible

helpful

It’s possible - maybe try looking at agencies that have hiring events

helpful

Thanks! Just found the events page on USAJOBS – good to know.

I’m a disabled vet and still couldn’t get past the initial screening. I’m happy I didn’t though, the pay sucks!

helpful

Some good tips here. Also look for excepted service jobs, they have far more latitude in hiring compared to CS.

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Can you explain the difference between the two?

Are you getting any referrals, or just straight rejections? Are you using the USAJobs resume builder or a standard private sector resume? What grades and job series are you applying for? How many YOE do you have?

I was a fed HM at two civilian agencies, happy to answer any questions you might have.

Sure, go for it

Apply to the PMF program

Only applies if you’re right out of grad school.

likesmart

Do your best to have your resume match the job description key words as much as possible

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