If you’re applying for federal jobs on USAJOBS.gov, you need a specialized resume format that differs significantly from private-sector resumes. Here’s your complete guide to crafting a federal resume that gets noticed.
Why Federal Resumes Are Different
Federal resumes require:
- More detail (typically 3-5 pages)
- Specific information mandated by HR
- Keyword optimization for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS)
- Clear demonstration of specialized experience
Step-by-Step USAJOBS Resume Format
1. Contact Information (Top of Page)
- Full legal name
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Email (professional, not quirky)
- Optional: LinkedIn profile (if relevant)
2. Job Information (For Each Position)
For EVERY job listed (last 10 years typically required):
- Job title (exactly as it appears on your SF-50 if former fed)
- Employer name and location
- Dates employed (month/year to month/year)
- Hours per week (full-time = 40)
- Salary (optional but helpful)
- Supervisor name/contact (optional)
- Detailed duties/accomplishments (5-8 bullet points per job)
3. Education Section
- Degree(s) earned
- Institution name/location
- Major/minor
- GPA (if 3.5+)
- Relevant coursework (if entry-level)
4. Additional Sections to Include
- Certifications/Licenses
- Specialized Training
- Awards/Honors
- Volunteer Work (if relevant)
- Clearances (if holding active security clearance)
Proven Tips for Success
- Mirror the Job Announcement
- Use keywords from the “Duties” and “Qualifications” sections
- Match verb tenses (“managed” vs “manage”)
- Quantify Your Impact
- “Processed 50+ claims weekly with 98% accuracy”
- “Supervised team of 12 customer service reps”
- Use the CCAR Method for Accomplishments
- Challenge
- Context
- Action
- Result
- Avoid These Common Mistakes
- Using private-sector resume templates
- Omitting required information
- Being too brief in duty descriptions
- Forgetting to proofread (spelling errors are disqualifying)
Sample Federal Resume Bullet Points
Before (Private-Sector Style):
“Managed office operations”
After (Federal Style):
“Directed daily operations for 15-person HR office supporting 500+ employees. Developed new filing system that reduced document retrieval time by 30%. Trained 5 new staff members on federal recordkeeping procedures. Received ‘Exceeds Expectations’ rating in all performance evaluations.”
Where to Get Help
- Free Resources:
- USAJOBS Resume Builder
- OPM Resume Writing Guide
- Professional Services:
- Certified Federal Resume Writers (search NRWA)
- CareerOneStop centers
Final Checklist Before Submitting
✓ All required sections included
✓ Keywords from announcement incorporated
✓ Length appropriate (3-5 pages typically)
✓ No sensitive personal information (SSN, DOB)
✓ Saved in compatible format (PDF or Word)
Need help tailoring your resume for a specific federal job series? Share the announcement number or job title, and I can provide more targeted suggestions!