Build a federal resume
Federal resumes are the application
Federal resumes are longer than private-sector resumes and should include a more detailed overview of experiences, including dates, hours worked, experience level and specific examples.
- Length: Under two pages
- Use the resume builder on USA Jobs for a uniform appearance that includes all required information: USAJOBS Help Center - How to create a resume.
- For tips on writing a strong resume, visit USAJOBS Help Center - How do I write a resume for a federal job?and review Resumes | Oklahoma State University.
Federal resumes
Work experience
Include
Relevant experience for the position:
- Part-time jobs
- Full-time roles
- Internships
- Volunteer engagements
- Community involvement
- Leadership positions
Employer details
- Name
- Location
- Position title
- Start and end date
- Hours worked per week
- Responsibilities
- Accomplishments (specific, detailed and measurable)
Optional information
- Supervisor’s contact information
- Salary
Education
Include
- All basic information about schools attended and coursework completed
- Applicants should list degrees from accredited schools or programs
Required information:
- Schools attended
- Degrees obtained
Optional details:
- GPA
- Relevant coursework
- Academic papers
- Projects
- Key presentations
- Honors received
- Other important academic accomplishments
Additional information
Take advantage of the 2-page length by highlighting your top skills revlevant to the position.
Include
- Job related training, such as certifications
- Language skills
- Affiliations, such as professional organizations, industry affiliations or national societies
- Professional publications
- Additional references
Some applications include a questionnaire to validate that the candidate has the skills listed on their resume.
Prepare your family and friends for a background check after you apply.
Federal resume tips
Tip #1: Read the entire announcement
Tailor the resume to the job announcement by mirroring language in your bullet points.
- Use keywords and phrases.
- Pull up the job announcement and match the language in your resume to the description.
- Do not copy and paste from the position description; use your own words.
Tip #2: Explain what you did and how you did it
- Percentages
- Numbers
- Data
Highlight your skills and achievements. Give the agency a clear reason to hire you.
- Be honest.
- Include academic projects and volunteer work.
- Be specific about how you completed your work.
- Focus on accomplishments, not just duties.
- Keep your audience in mind and incorporate your research about the agency and hiring contact.
Tip #3: Proofread thoroughly
- Spelling and grammar matter.
- Be concise and clear and avoid acronyms and jargon.
- Be honest about your experience.
- Introduce work experience on the first page.
- Save multiple copies of your resume to show different skills and qualifications.