Career Resources
Our Career Resources are designed to support your professional development and job search journey. Here, you'll find valuable tools, tips, and opportunities to help you navigate your career path with confidence and success.
Helpful Resume Tips
Whether you're a current federal employee or just starting your career in the federal government, your resume serves as the main tool for showcasing your education, skills, and experience.
Navigating USAJOBS
Tips for navigating USAJOBS, the official U.S. federal job portal that connects seekers with diverse employment opportunities and resources for searching, applying, and creating profiles.
Find Your Path
Answer a short series of questions and be matched with a DOI career that best suits your interests and experience.
Career and Internship Resources
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Internship, Recent Graduate and Fellowship Opportunities
The USGS has many different internship and volunteer opportunities that provide valuable on the job experience to students and recent graduates at all educational levels. Individuals who successfully complete a Pathways Program may be eligible for noncompetitive conversion to a term or permanent job in the Federal Government.
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Employment and Information Center
Why is it great to work for the USGS? Embark on an exciting future! From the peaks of the highest mountains to the depths of the deepest seas, the U.S. Geological Survey has career opportunities that make a difference in both the lives of others and in the environment.
Informational Fliers and Handouts
Internships and Fellowships
Employment Opportunities
Pathways Internship Program
Top 10 Tips for Applying on USAJOBS for a Federal Job
1. Eligibility (Who May Apply): Some jobs may only be open to current or former federal employees (i.e., “Status” candidates), students, or recent graduates. Make sure you are eligible to apply for the specific vacancy.
2. Application Deadlines: Most job announcements are open for only a specific amount of time and may have an application limit, which means they may close prior to the closing date. Applicants must apply online via USAJOBS before midnight EST on the closing date of the announcement or before the listed applicant limit is reached.
3. Location: The duty location is listed in the vacancy announcement and is not negotiable unless specifically listed decision made at the time of selection or advertised as remote.
4. Qualifications and Evaluations: Review this section of the job announcement to make sure you meet the qualification requirements listed in the announcement. Some positions may require a specific educational degree or specific coursework to qualify. This section also explains how applications will be evaluated and any additional assessments that will be required.
5. Resume: Your resume is your application, and it must show how your skills and experiences meet the qualifications. Ensure your resume is tailored specifically to the position you are applying for. For each work experience, include the start and end dates (month and year), the number of hours you worked per week, and your level of experience to show you can perform the required tasks.
6. Required Documents: Applicants often fail to provide the required supporting documentation listed in the job announcement, such as academic transcripts. Failure to provide these documents may disqualify you for the position.
7. Next Steps: The federal hiring process can be lengthy, and you may be asked to complete additional assessments, such as questionnaires or writing samples. Due to the volume of applications and the review process, it may take several weeks before you receive any notification. Once our Human Resources Office has reviewed applications, you will receive an e-mail informing you whether you have been referred to the hiring manager and deemed qualified for the position.
8. Point of Contact: Each vacancy announcement includes a point of contact—reach out if you have questions about your application status.
9. USAJOBS Resources: Use the resources available on USAJOBS, including the Help Center and FAQs, to navigate the application process.
10. Make Your Resume Searchable: Opt-in to make your resume searchable by recruiters, increasing your visibility for potential job opportunities.