A Comprehensive Guide to Government Job guides readers through the federal employment process from start to finish. It explains what jobs are available, how to locate them and how to complete the employment application (OF-612).

Many government jobs provide excellent job security and offer impressive pension and retirement packages. They also offer flexibility in work schedules.

Job Descriptions

Government jobs might evoke a cynical response from some, but those who want to serve their country unselfishly and see themselves as part of the solution to homelessness, finding cures for disease or keeping food supplies safe might find a career in public service rewarding. Dedicated civil servants can make small differences that blossom into system-wide changes.

The responsibilities and duties of any job should be clearly stated, and applicants should be able to discern whether the position fits their skills and experience. Physical requirements, such as how many hours per week a job requires sitting, standing or lifting, should also be described.

Jobs listed on USAJobs are organized into occupational series – or family groups – and classified as either GS or Wage Grade (WG). Position classification standards and functional guides define federal white collar occupations and establish official position titles.

Job Requirements

Government jobs are not only plentiful, but provide stability and job security rarely found in the private sector. Uncle Sam is hiring in many fields, from secretaries to scientists and soldiers to park rangers and postal workers.

Unlike a resume, the federal employment application OF-612 requires extensive details about your work history and education. The book describes the kinds of information required, such as start and end dates (including month and year), number of hours worked per week, supervisor names, addresses and phone numbers.

It also covers civil service exam requirements, overseas jobs and the many special hiring programs for veterans and students. The book explains the government employment process from an insider's perspective and provides a checklist to guide you throughout the job search.

Salary Ranges

The vast majority of government jobs are paid on a government-regulated pay scale known as the General Schedule. The lowest-level GS positions pay between GS-5 and GS-9; the highest is the president of the United States, who earns about $143,000 a year. Locality pay and special rate requests can boost a basic federal salary even further.

But the government offers a lot more than just money: it gives you the opportunity to make a difference in your country, state and community. Whether you want to work in the great outdoors as a park ranger or patrol the corridors of Washington, there's a government job for you. The secret to getting it is knowing the rules of the game.

Benefits

A government job offers a stable income and excellent benefits. Although it can be stressful and tedious, many people find a sense of purpose in their work. It can be satisfying to make a difference by solving problems like homelessness or finding cures for diseases.

The perks of working in the government include excellent health care and retirement plans and tuition waivers for higher education. Employees also receive a competitive vacation package and ample sick time.

In addition, the government is not as prone to layoffs as the private sector. While agencies may close or morph into new forms, there is always the need for employees to perform essential services. This stability is a great benefit for those who are concerned about financial security.

Interviewing

A government interview can seem daunting because federal agencies follow a specific process for hiring employees. This often leads to a long wait between being referred and actually receiving an interview. During this time, it's important to continue working on your job search and researching the agency.

Research the host government's strategic plans, most recent budget and financial history. If possible, find out how it's responding to its current challenges.

Practice your answers to questions the interviewers may ask. Make sure your answers are concise and specific to the role. Remember that humans have short attention spans, and if your answers are too lengthy you may lose the interviewer's interest. Follow up shortly after the interview with a brief email or letter thanking the interviewers for their time.