FAQ – Practical Guide for Federal Job Seekers
Account & Profile
Q: How do I sign in to USAJOBS?
A: You must use a login.gov account. USAJOBS no longer supports direct sign-in. You can manage your login credentials through login.gov..
Q: How do I create a USAJOBS profile?
A: After signing in with login.gov, you’ll be prompted to build a profile with your contact info, work history, education, and preferences.
Q: Can I update my profile later?
A: Yes. You can edit your profile anytime to reflect new experience, education, or preferences.
Q: What are hiring paths and why do they matter?
A: Hiring paths (e.g., veterans, federal employees, students) determine your eligibility for certain jobs. Select all that apply in your profile.
Resume & Documents
Q: How do I create a resume in USAJOBS?
A: You can build one using the resume builder or upload a PDF. Federal resumes should be detailed—include job titles, dates, hours per week, and accomplishments.
Q: Can I upload multiple resumes?
A: Yes. You can store up to five resumes and choose which one to use for each application.
Q: What documents might I need to apply?
A: Common documents include:
- Transcripts (for education-based jobs)
- SF-50 (for current/former federal employees)
- DD-214 and VA letters (for veterans)
- Certifications or licenses
- Cover letters (optional but helpful)
Q: How do I manage my documents?
A: Upload, label, and organize them in your profile. You can also fax documents if needed.
Job Search & Announcements
Q: How do I search for jobs on USAJOBS?
A: Use filters like location, agency, pay grade, series, and hiring path. You can save searches and receive email alerts.
Q: What should I look for in a job announcement?
A: Read the entire posting. Focus on:
- “This job is open to” → tells you who can apply
- “Clarification from the agency” → gives more eligibility details
- “Requirements” and “Qualifications” → shows what you must meet
- “How to Apply” → outlines the application steps
Q: What is an occupational questionnaire?
A: A scored set of questions used to assess your qualifications. You’ll usually complete it during the application process.
Application Process
Q: How do I apply for a job?
A: Click “Apply” and follow the five-step process:
- Sign in
- Select a resume
- Upload documents
- Answer agency-specific questions
- Review and submit
Q: Can I edit my application before submitting?
A: Yes. You can review, update, and delete information. Progress is saved automatically.
Q: What happens after I click Apply?
A: You’ll be redirected to the agency’s application system. You may need to:
- Provide more personal info
- Upload additional documents
- Answer eligibility questions
- Complete an occupational questionnaire
Submission & Tracking
Q: How do I know my application was received?
A: Go to the “Application” section of your USAJOBS profile. If it says “You applied” with a date, it was successfully submitted.
Q: How do I track my application status?
A: Use the “Track This Application” link in your profile. You’ll see updates like:
- Received
- Reviewed
- Referred
- Not referred
- Selected
- Not selected
Q: Can I withdraw an application?
A: Yes, but only before the closing date. Go to your application and select “Withdraw.”
Contact & Support
Q: Who do I contact if I have questions about a job?
A: Contact the hiring agency directly. Their info is listed under the “How to Apply” section of the job announcement.
Q: Who do I contact for technical issues with USAJOBS?
A: Use the USAJOBS Contact Us page to report issues or get help.