If you’re looking to make a difference and explore a wide array of opportunities, you may consider exploring the world of the Federal government. And yet, it’s not always an easy industry to navigate. Some government hiring happens very early since it can be a slow process and often requires the issuing of government clearances or lengthy background checks. Also, depending on the opportunity, the posting could be on a variety of different job sites. Understanding timelines and where to look can be difficult, which is why the Federal Internship Finder and USAJOBS are key resources for a successful recruiting experience.
The Federal Internship Finder: Your Starting Point
The Federal Internship Finder, a resource offered by the Partnership for Public Service, can be a helpful platform for discovering internship opportunities within the U.S. federal government. This tool consolidates a wide range of internships from various government agencies, allowing you to explore (on one platform) opportunities that align with your academic interests and career goals. Whether you’re passionate about public policy, environmental science, technology, healthcare, or another field, there’s an internship waiting for you.
Why Consider a Federal Internship?
- Diverse Opportunities: The federal government offers internships across numerous fields, providing you with a unique chance to explore different career paths.
- Real-World Impact: As a federal intern, you’ll contribute to meaningful projects that have a real impact on the country.
- Professional Growth: Federal internships offer you the chance to develop essential skills, expand your professional network, and gain a deeper understanding of your field.
USAJOBS: Your Gateway to Federal Employment
USAJOBS is the official job site of the U.S. federal government, where you can find not only full-time positions but also internships and entry-level jobs. It’s a comprehensive resource for discovering opportunities that fit your background, education, and career goals. You can filter searches by location and agency to make it easier to find an ideal match.
Tip: Set up email alerts on USAJOBS to be notified when new internships or jobs matching your criteria are posted.
Creating a Federal Resume
Applying for a federal internship or job requires a specific type of resume called a Federal resume. USAJobs has a Federal Resume Builder, so be sure to take advantage of that. Here are some tips to help you craft one:
- Include All Relevant Details: Federal resumes are typically longer than private-sector resumes. Be thorough in listing your work experiences, including details like duties, accomplishments, and the number of hours worked per week.
- Use Keywords: Carefully read the job announcement and incorporate relevant keywords from the “Qualifications” and “Duties” sections into your resume.
- Quantify Your Achievements: Use numbers to describe your accomplishments, such as “Managed a team of 5” or “Increased program participation by 20%.”
- Focus on Results: Highlight how your work made a difference in previous roles. What problems did you solve? What impact did you have?
For more detailed guidance on creating a federal resume, visit the USAJOBS Resume Builder.
Take the Next Step
Exploring internships through the Federal Internship Finder and USAJOBS is a strategic move for any student serious about a career in public service. By taking advantage of these resources and crafting a strong Federal resume, you’re setting yourself up for a future filled with impactful opportunities.
Start your journey today by exploring federal internships here and setting up your USAJOBS profile here. Also check out the Penn Career Services Government, Law, & Public Policy community for more tips and resources!
