Why Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder?
The official USAJOBS resume builder is the required format for most federal job applications, including USPS positions. Unlike private-sector resumes, federal resumes need specific details that demonstrate your qualifications.
Key Benefits:
✔ Guaranteed compliance with federal hiring standards
✔ Detailed format that highlights required experience
✔ Direct integration with USAJOBS application system
✔ Auto-saves your work for future applications
How to Create a Winning Federal Resume
Step 1: Access the Resume Builder
- Go to USAJOBS.gov
- Create an account or log in
- Click “Resumes” in your profile menu
- Select “Create New Resume”
Step 2: Essential Sections to Include
1. Personal Information
- Full legal name
- Contact details
- Country of citizenship (required for federal jobs)
2. Work Experience
- Detailed descriptions (not just job titles)
- Include hours worked per week
- List supervisor contact info (name/phone/email)
- Use action verbs (managed, developed, implemented)
3. Education
- Schools attended with dates
- Degrees/certificates earned
- Relevant coursework (if entry-level)
4. Job-Related Training
- Certifications
- Workshops
- Military training (if applicable)
5. Additional Skills
- Technical proficiencies
- Languages
- Equipment operation
Pro Tips for Federal Resumes
1. Be Extremely Detailed
Federal resumes typically run 3-5 pages (vs. private sector’s 1-2 pages). Include:
- Exact dates (month/year) for all positions
- Salary history for each role
- Specific accomplishments with metrics
2. Mirror the Job Announcement
- Use keywords from the “Requirements” section
- Match your experience to each qualification
- Include specialized experience verbatim
3. Formatting Matters
- Use simple, readable fonts (Arial 11-12pt)
- Avoid tables/graphics (they don’t parse well)
- Save as PDF when finalizing
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Being too brief (unlike private sector resumes)
❌ Omitting required information (like hours worked/week)
❌ Using vague descriptions instead of concrete achievements
❌ Forgetting to update between applications
Sample Resume Section for USPS Jobs
WORK EXPERIENCE
City Carrier Assistant
USPS – Denver, CO | 06/2022-Present | 40 hrs/week
Salary: $19.33/hour | Supervisor: John Smith (555-123-4567)
- Delivered mail to 600+ daily addresses across 15-mile route
- Maintained 98% on-time delivery rate in all weather conditions
- Trained 5 new hires on postal regulations and safety protocols
- Operated LLV delivery vehicles with perfect safety record
How to Save and Use Your Resume
- Save multiple versions tailored to different job series
- Upload to USAJOBS when applying
- Print copies for interviews/reference
Need help tailoring your resume for a specific USPS position?
Reply with the job announcement number or title for customized advice!
Bonus: The USAJOBS resume builder automatically formats your resume to meet Office of Personnel Management (OPM) standards, significantly increasing your chances of getting referred to hiring managers.