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Early careers

The federal government offers a variety of internships, development programs and entry-level roles to help you launch a rewarding career in public service.

Just starting out in your career? Read this first.

The federal hiring process is unique. To be successful, you may need to rethink the way you format your resume, learn how to identify the jobs you're eligible to apply for and understand how your qualifications will be reviewed.

Taking the time to understand the federal hiring process opens the door to exciting new career options. The federal government is a diverse employer that's made up of hundreds of agencies and departments, each with a unique mission supported by a variety of career fields.

Whatever your interests, you can find federal opportunities to do your best work in a field you enjoy. You'll earn competitive benefits and pay while growing your career and making a difference in the lives of the people you serve, and at a scale you won't find anywhere else.

Learn more about the federal application process

Here's what you need to know before you apply for your first federal job.

  • How does the application process work?

     
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  • What jobs am I eligible to apply for?

     
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  • What should I include on my resume?

     
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  • What documents do I need to provide when I apply?

     
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Our commitment to diversity

As the nation's largest employer, the federal government must be a model for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility as we recruit the next generation of public servants to take on complex national and global issues.

Federal employees do important work that affects millions of people, ranging from developing vaccines for deadly diseases, to fighting fires to communicating policy changes. The federal government is committed to strengthening our workforce and advancing equity by drawing from the diversity of the nation.

Opportunities for students and recent graduates

  • Student programs
    If you're a current student in high school, college, trade school, or other qualifying educational institution, you may be eligible to participate in a federal student program. These programs offer paid opportunities to work at federal agencies while completing your education.
    Search student internships Explore student programs
  • Recent graduate programs
    If you've graduated from a qualifying educational institution or certificate program within the last two years, you may be eligible to participate in a federal recent graduate program. These programs offer paid career development, training and mentorship opportunities with federal agencies.
    Search recent graduate jobs Explore recent graduate programs

Don't know where to start?

Take the USAJOBS Career Explorer questionnaire to find out which federal career fields might best fit your background and interests.

Find your fit