USAJOBS Resume Help

How do I write a resume for a federal job?

Federal agencies only accept resumes up to two pages in length to comply with the Merit Hiring Plan. USAJOBS will not allow you to upload or build resumes longer than two pages, and you will need to update the resumes in your profile before applying to a job.

USAJOBS can help you with your resume. Use the USAJOBS resume builder to help you build a resume tailored to the job you want to apply to.

What do I do before I write my resume?

Before you write your resume, read the job announcement closely. Some sections will tell you whether you qualify for the job and what to include in your resume.

  • Duties describe the job’s daily activities and responsibilities.
  • Requirements include the Qualifications, Specialized experience and Education.
  • How to apply may include a link to a preview of an assessment questionnaire, if that is required.
  • How you will be evaluated may include criteria, like submitting a writing sample or completing a job assessment.
  • Required documents help you understand what other documents you may need to provide.

What do I have to include on my resume?

Your resume is how you communicate your education, skills and experience. You must show how you meet the qualifications and requirements in the job announcement.

There are several things to consider when creating your resume for a federal job.

  • Your resume must be two pages or less and explain why you are qualified for the job.
  • Use plain language. Avoid using acronyms and terms that are not easily understood. The hiring agency will not make assumptions about what’s in your resume.
  • Make sure your work experience addresses the requirements and qualifications in the job announcement.
  • You should tailor your resume to include experience relevant to each job you want to apply for.

Include important contact information at the top

Include current contact information. Most job applications require this information:

  • Full name
  • Your email address
  • Your phone number

Read the job announcement carefully to make sure you have included all required contact information.

Add relevant work experience.

For each relevant work experience, make sure you include:

  • Employer name
  • Job title
  • Start and end dates (include the month and year).
  • The number of hours you worked per week.
  • Brief descriptions that show you can perform the tasks at the required level listed in the job announcement.
  • Series and grade for federal jobs only.

Example:

Program Analyst GS-343-11
January 2009–present
40 Hours/week

Describe your experience that shows you can perform any tasks listed in the job announcement.

  • “Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y], by doing [Z].”
  • “Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y], by doing [Z].”
  • “Accomplished [X] as measured by [Y], by doing [Z].”

Add your education, certificates or licensures if required

When the job announcement requires position-specific education, license or certification information, make sure you include them in your resume and provide any required documents like transcripts, certifications or licenses.

Education information should include:

  • Name of school/institution
  • Completion date
  • Degree type
  • Grade point average (GPA)

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