Jump-Start Your Career in Government
Ever looked at a government building and daydreamed about working as one of those caffeinated civil servants behind the scenes? You’re in the right place! Whether you want to be a budget ninja, policy powerhouse, or are just really good at deciphering acronyms, Hiatt is here to turn your career aspirations from a “bureaucratic maze” to a “pathway of possibilities.”
But we couldn’t do it alone, which is why we brought in industry expert Johan Bos-Beijer.
With nearly 30 years of experience working or consulting for government agencies like the U.S. Department of Education and the Office of Inspector General, Johan has the industry knowledge few others possess. Here’s his top advice for students interested in government careers…
Develop a Basic Understanding of Government
This is the most important step. There are hundreds of agencies, commissions, institutes and other structures in government. You don’t need to deep dive into details but should explore extensively.
For example, did you know the Department of Energy handles a broad range of responsibilities including nuclear development and disposal? Are you aware that the Department of Education is much more than loans and grants? General Services Administration has three distinct significant areas of responsibility around the world; acquisition, technology transformation, and public buildings. But did you know it also manages a multi-million dollar art collection and services all former President and Vice President housing and staffing?
The Fiscal Services Bureau of the Treasury handles 90% of all government payments. Did you know that those payments include trillions of dollars for everything from social security to student loans/grants, veterans benefits, state benefits, refunds, debit cards, etc? Payments are just one service in addition to their other responsibilities in servicing bond purchases, auctions, accounting and reporting services throughout government.
There is a great site that has the US Government Manual which is a resource in discovering and exploring the range of opportunities in public service. The government is global so explore overseas opportunities as well. There are also opportunities in think tanks and consultants or contractors which provide insight and expertise to the government sector.
Start Early and Update Constantly
As you discover opportunities and areas that interest you geographically as well as topically keep track of those resources and bookmark them. You will be amazed at what you find as you explore including the fact that the government hires for every type of expertise and skills including diverse areas such as engineering, domain subject matter expertise, analysts, artists, statisticians, conservationists, fleet management, scientists, landscapers, sociological experts, service management, customer experience, psychologists, historians, contracting, legal, property management, technology of every kind including legacy systems, and much more.
Consider what interests you and discover where those interests exist as opportunities in government. Look at individual agency sites for details and to learn about their structure and programs. Programs update, change, and new ones are created. Become familiar with the language and terminology. Understand the security clearance and residency requirements for positions.
Consider what you post on social media as that can influence your eligibility. Follow government agency social media to stay updated. There are also many fellowships and internships so apply early.
Get Set Up on USAJobs.gov
This is the federal government career platform where you can load a master resume as well as multiple tailored resumes and supporting documents that will be necessary as you submit your application in response to vacancy announcements. It also provides the capability to make your resume searchable by prospective employers in government. Set up your key word searches to discover opportunities just like you would for internet search alerts.
General terms like “analyst” will produce too many results but tuning your search for specific terminology will tailor results to your interests. When you apply for positions emulate the language of the vacancy announcement. Tailor your resume to the job and incorporate language from the vacancy announcement. Remember to prepare a multi-page detailed federal style resume as shown on the site, unlike private sector where brevity is most important. Never get discouraged as persistence and patience pays off since many factors influence hiring.
Stay Aware of What is Happening in the Government
Public Service is a special calling and impacts millions of people. It also often leads to opportunities in the private sector as much of the government is managed using contractors and consultants. Pay attention to what is a priority now, what may be in the future, and where there is increased need or funding in government. Reading agency reports will show you pathways to planned or future opportunities, for example Artificial Intelligence is a current trend which was hardly referred to years ago.
The government employs almost 3 million civilians and hires approximately 100,000 per year. There can be approximately 15,000 to 20,000 open vacancy announcements daily. Look at the General Schedule pay listed on the Office of Personnel Management site as pay is determined by base pay plus locality adjustments depending on where the job is located. Only approximately 20% of Government jobs are in Washington DC. Many government jobs are also available at the state and local levels so explore those as well. There are benefits available when working in public service as well as incentive programs such as the student loan repayment program.
Develop Experience in Addition to Your Education
Showing that you have hands on or practitioner experience is very important even if it is not a traditional job. Join an association, work together with other students and faculty on projects, join a common interest community, find a seasonal internship, volunteer, create a club on campus, and start developing a network of contacts now.
Being able to show these activities on your resume is very beneficial as it shows that you have applied your skills, education, and interests as part of developing your career. Since Government careers often include work with or for consultants and contractors capturing what you ‘did’ in addition to what you ‘learned’ demonstrates practical understanding of how to apply concepts to work activities, engage with people for common solutions, and navigating diverse environments.
Regardless of your training, skills, and education there are positions that can utilize your abilities and qualifications. Consider obtaining certifications in special topics to augment your experience such as data analytics, negotiation and facilitation, public speaking, etc.
Want to learn more about a potential career in government? Johan wants to connect with current Brandeis undergraduate students on LinkedIn! Just send him a message explaining that you read his article on Hiatt’s website.