Regardless of the government job you’re applying for, you’ll need a federal resume that gives an in-depth overview of your professional journey. It must provide evidence of success in past positions and demonstrate to governmental agencies that you meet or exceed the position’s requirements. In this guide, we’ll provide strategies and tips to help you craft a federal resume that makes it through human resources and into the hands of hiring managers.
Key Takeaways
Emphasize specializations: Whether you’ve held positions in the federal government or in the private sector, discuss some of the specialized skills you’ve acquired. Do you have a unique skill set such as being multilingual or military experience? Include anything that can set your resume apart.
Detail quantifiable achievements: Federal government jobs are all about accountability and following protocol. With data, show how you’ve performed in past roles and the impact it had on your agency or organizational goals.
Use keywords for applicant tracking systems (ATS): ATS might be the first to look at your resume, so load it up with keywords and phrases from the job description so your attributes match those the hiring manager is seeking.
How To Write a Federal Resume Example
For a professional look, use a resume template to help you assemble your document. At the very least, your federal resume should include these sections:
Contact information
Profile
Professional experience
Education and certifications
Key skills
1. Share your contact information
The contact information section of a federal resume contains more information than a resume for a nongovernmental job. Include your full name, mailing address, phone number, email, and links to online professional profiles or portfolios.
Then, provide information such as the announcement number, your current job title, and your highest previous grade if you’ve worked in a federal position before. Also include your citizenship status, veteran’s preference points, and whether or not hiring managers can contact your current supervisor.
Example
Your Name
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code LinkedIn | Portfolio
Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: N/A Contact Current Employer: Yes
2. Summarize your federal qualifications in a dynamic profile
Your resume profile is like a personal briefing to the federal hiring committee. It should concisely outline your core qualifications and provide a quick, insightful snapshot of your experience. A few sentences should be sufficient. This is a great place to integrate keywords from the job announcement in the form of skills, qualifications, and certifications.
Senior-Level Profile Example
A seasoned executive leader with over a decade in prominent roles within federal government agencies including the Department of Homeland Security and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Known for policy development, strategic decision-making, team leadership, and effective communication dealing with complex regulatory matters. Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), and Certified in Federal Regulations (CFR), underscoring advanced knowledge and expertise across federal regulations.
Entry-Level Profile Example
A results-driven federal program analyst with experience in monitoring and managing federal programs within the Department of Homeland Security. Known for robust skills in compliance and policy development, a keen understanding of government operations, and excellent communication and troubleshooting capabilities. Certified Government Auditing Professional reflecting high competence in public safety, community well-being, and federal procedures.
3. Add your federal job experience with compelling examples
This is where you’ll detail your previous positions, federal or otherwise. Government agencies are looking for in-depth descriptions to prove you’re fully qualified for the job. If you want to join one of the 4.5 million federal employees, you’ll need to describe your work history at length.
Senior-Level Professional Experience Example
Senior Policy Analyst, Department of Homeland Security, Washington, D.C. | March 2019 – present
Designed, developed, and implemented key policy initiatives aligned with the strategic goals of the organization
Analyzed complex security situations and made strategic-level decisions that safeguarded national interests
Acted as a senior advisor to high-ranking officials on critical issues related to national security, presenting comprehensive briefs based on clear, concise, and relevant information
Created effective partnerships with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies
Deputy Director, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Washington, D.C. | August 2015 – February 2019
Played a pivotal role in shaping FEMA’s policies and directives aimed at emergency management and disaster resilience
Led a team of expert analysts and coordinators; during leadership tenure, the team successfully managed crisis response for over 50 significant national emergencies
Effectively communicated complicated regulatory matters with stakeholders at all levels, ensuring transparency and upholding the federal rules and regulations
Participated in national security meetings and briefings
Special Agent, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), New York, NY June 2010 – July 2015
Investigated criminal misuse of firearms and explosives, firearms trafficking, acts of arson
Conducted routine bomb threat management training for private and government organizations
Prepared written reports and thoroughly communicated findings and conclusions to superiors and in courtroom proceedings
Entry-Level Professional Experience Example
Federal Program Analyst, Department of Homeland Security, Washington, D.C. | June 2018 – present
Regularly review reports and perform data analysis to evaluate the efficiency and efficacy of multiple federal government programs, leading to a 25% increase in operational productiveness
Instrumental in implementing and managing four new federal government initiatives contributing to increased program effectiveness
Assisted in professional compliance monitoring, ensuring adherence to all agency policies and federal regulations
Led up to 10-person emergency response exercise teams, including over 100 Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) compliant drills
Policy Development Associate, American Red Cross Atlanta, GA | January 2016 – May 2018
Conducted extensive research on various policy issues resulting in the drafting of five policy proposals adopted by the organization
Provided background materials for senior-level staff meetings enhancing communication and understanding of upcoming policy changes
Developed a strong understanding of government operations and an ability to interpret and apply policies and regulations
Collaborated with local organizations and community groups to ensure coordination and cooperation
Intern, Office of U.S. Congress 5th District of Illinois | September 2014 – December 2015
Promoted community events and engaged with social media followers, increasing followers by 125% during internship
Responded to over 10 constituent inquiries each day by phone and email to hear their concerns and provide resolution or direct them to appropriate contacts
Provided on-site assistance and support at community events and community board meetings
Conducted research using source material including Library of Congress, ProQuest, and JSTOR
Resume writer’s tip: Quantify your experience
As you craft your professional experience section, use numbers when possible to describe your past positions. The best place to do this is within the bullet points of your job descriptions. Percentages, dollar amounts, and other metrics help the hiring manager see what kind of value and results you could bring to their team.
Do
“Maintain a 60% to 70% space utilization rate to increase overall workspace efficiency.”
Don’t
“Monitor office space utilization rate to improve efficiency.”
Resume writer’s tip: Tailor your resume for each application
Federal employment outlook is on the rise overall, but competition is usually fierce. A generic, one-size-fits-all template won’t stand up to well-tailored resumes. Government agencies are looking for candidates who match their precise specifications, and aligning your resume with the job announcement is your best strategy.
Study the announcement, follow instructions, and do your best to demonstrate exactly what they’re looking for. This looks like incorporating keywords from the job description and providing any information specifically requested.
What if you don’t have experience?
Not every government job requires previous federal experience, and you may even qualify to apply if you have a certain level of postsecondary education. Instead of relying on an extensive work history, you can describe your time participating in school, extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or personal projects and the transferable skills earned there.
The key is to provide details and examples of past success related to the job you’re applying for. For example, suppose you’re applying for a federal project management position. You could leverage your involvement in a volunteer organization where you led a community project. Outline how you applied project management principles to set goals, allocate resources, and meet deadlines.
4. Include education and certifications related to government jobs
The academic requirements for federal jobs will vary greatly depending on the specific position, agency, and level of responsibility. From administrative roles to highly specialized technical positions, the minimum level of education will be spelled out in the job description.
List any relevant or required degrees or diplomas, providing the institution name, location, completion date, and GPA if requested. If you’ve earned certifications in software proficiencies or specialized skills related to the position, include those in a separate section.
Education
Template:
[Degree Name]
[School Name], [City, State Abbreviation] | [Graduation Year]
Example:
Master of Public Policy
American University, Washington, D.C. | 2017
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
American University, Washington, D.C. | 2015
Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), National Contract Management Association (NCMA), 2021
Federal Certification in Contract Compliance (FCCC), The American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity (AAAED), 2020
Certified Federal Financial Management (CFFM), Association of Government Accountants (AGA), 2019
5. Include a list of skills and proficiencies related to federal work
Before a hiring manager even sees a resume, agencies often use an ATS and conduct an official review by human resources personnel. To get through each round of inspection, include keywords in your resume. A key skills list is the perfect place to do this. When listing key skills on your federal resume, be sure to include a mixture of both technical and interpersonal abilities required for the job.
Key Skills and Proficiencies
Budgeting
Conflict resolution
Cultural competency
Cybersecurity
Data analysis
Emergency response planning
Emotional intelligence
Foreign language proficiency
Grant writing
Negotiation
Policy development
Resume writer’s tip: Use strong action verbs
Action verbs are often tagged as keywords by hiring managers. Using these dynamic words can help your resume perform well when put through an ATS. They also allow for concise communication, avoiding phrases like “I was responsible for…” Use some of the action verbs below in the professional experience section of your federal resume:
Action Verbs
Administered
Analyzed
Collaborated
Coordinated
Developed
Evaluated
Facilitated
Implemented
Monitored
Negotiated
Organized
Oversaw
Researched
Streamlined
Tailored
How To Pick the Best Federal Resume Template
The best resume template for a federal worker is one that is clean and professional. Do not try to impress recruiters with colorful paper, illustrations, or fonts. Keep your federal resume neat, space out sections so they are easy to read, and be sure any indented sections line up.
Federal Text-Only Resume Templates and Examples
left
Entry level
Midlevel
Senior level
right
Your Name
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code LinkedIn | Portfolio
Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: N/A Contact Current Employer: Yes
Profile
A results-driven federal program analyst with experience in monitoring and managing federal programs within the Department of Homeland Security. Known for robust skills in compliance and policy development, a keen understanding of government operations, and excellent communication and troubleshooting capabilities. Certified Government Auditing Professional reflecting high competence in public safety, community well-being, and federal procedures.
Key Skills
Communications
Compliance assessment
Federal program analysis
Policy development support
Understanding of government operations
Professional Experience
Federal Program Analyst, Department of Homeland Security, Washington, D.C. | June 2018 – present
Regularly review reports and perform data analysis to evaluate the efficiency and efficacy of multiple federal government programs, leading to a 25% increase in operational efficiency
Instrumental in implementing and managing four new federal government initiatives contributing to increased program effectiveness
Assisted in professional compliance monitoring, ensuring adherence to all agency policies and federal regulations
Led up to 10-person emergency response exercise teams, including over 100 Homeland Security Exercise and Evaluation Program (HSEEP) compliant drills
Policy Development Associate, American Red Cross Atlanta, GA | January 2016 – May 2018
Conducted extensive research on various policy issues resulting in the drafting of five policy proposals adopted by the organization
Provided background materials for senior-level staff meetings enhancing communication and understanding of upcoming policy changes
Developed a strong understanding of government operations and an ability to interpret and apply policies and regulations
Collaborated with local organizations and community groups to ensure coordination and cooperation
Intern, Office of U.S. Congress 5th District of Illinois | September 2014 – December 2015
Promoted community events and engaged with social media followers, increasing followers by 125% during internship
Responded to over 10 constituent inquiries each day by phone and email to hear their concerns and provide resolution or direct them to appropriate contacts
Provided on-site assistance and support at community events and community board meetings
Conducted research using source material including Library of Congress, ProQuest, and JSTOR
Education
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
University of Chicago, Chicago, IL | 2015
Certifications
Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP), Institute of Internal Auditors, 2019
Federal Acquisition Certification in Contracting (FAC-C), U.S. Department of Defense, 2018
Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), Association of Government Accountants, 2016
Your Name
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code LinkedIn | Portfolio
Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: N/A Contact Current Employer: Yes
Profile
A highly skilled public safety professional with a Juris Doctor degree from Georgetown Law and a robust background in federal public safety and community well-being. Implements policies across a variety of national agencies, managing staff effectively, and impeccable recordkeeping coupled with strong data analysis skills. A leader in policy analysis, strategic planning, and federal regulations, backed by relevant federal certifications.
Key Skills
Data analysis and reporting
Knowledge of federal laws and regulations
Policy analysis
Staff management
Strategic planning
Professional Experience
Public Safety Supervisor, FEMA, Washington, D.C. | January 2019 – present
Managed a team of over 10 junior safety Inspectors, ensuring efficient implementation of federal safety regulations
Successfully implemented more than five new public safety policies that have significantly improved community preparedness for disasters
Authored monthly and annual progress reports documenting department activities, which were lauded for their accuracy and comprehensiveness
Reviewed and updated the organization’s standing operating procedure
Policy Implementation Officer, Department of Homeland Security, Washington, D.C. | June 2015 – December 2018
Worked on the development and implementation of homeland security policies in line with federal laws and regulations
Participated in strategic plan development, carrying out comprehensive policy analysis
Processed and analyzed data from multiple sources to create thorough reports, contributing to informed decision-making within the department
Trained and qualified over 120 newly hired personnel
Junior Office Assistant, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. | October 2014 – May 2015
Conducted surveys and research and analyzed data for various public health studies
Led information sessions at community outreach events, fielding questions from constituents
Helped implement three new summer youth physical fitness programs
Education
Juris Doctor
Georgetown Law, Washington, D.C. | 2018
Master of Public Policy
American University, Washington, D.C. | 2017
Bachelor of Arts in Public Administration
American University, Washington, D.C. | 2015
Certifications
Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), National Contract Management Association (NCMA), 2021
Federal Certification in Contract Compliance (FCCC), The American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity (AAAED), 2020
Certified Federal Financial Management (CFFM), Association of Government Accountants (AGA), 2019
Your Name
(123) 456-7890 [email protected]
City, State Abbreviation Zip Code LinkedIn | Portfolio
Citizenship: United States of America Veterans’ Preference: N/A Contact Current Employer: Yes
Profile
A seasoned executive leader with over a decade in prominent roles within federal government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA. Known for policy development, strategic decision-making, team leadership, and effective communication dealing with complex regulatory matters. Holds several certifications, including CGFM, CFCM, and CFR, underscoring advanced knowledge and expertise across federal regulations.
Key Skills
Brief writing
Emergency management
Leadership
Policy development
Strategic planning
Professional Experience
Senior Policy Analyst, Department of Homeland Security, Washington, D.C. | March 2019 – present
Designed, developed, and implemented key policy initiatives aligned with the strategic goals of the organization
Analyzed complex security situations and made strategic-level decisions that safeguarded national interests
Acted as a senior advisor to high-ranking officials on critical issues related to national security, presenting comprehensive briefs based on clear, concise, and relevant information
Developed effective partnerships with other federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies
Deputy Director, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Washington, D.C. | August 2015 – February 2019
Played a pivotal role in shaping FEMA’s policies and directives aimed at emergency management and disaster resilience
Led a team of expert analysts and coordinators; during leadership tenure, the team successfully managed crisis response for over 50 significant national emergencies
Effectively communicated complicated regulatory matters with stakeholders at all levels, ensuring transparency and upholding the federal rules and regulations
Participated in national security meetings and briefings
Special Agent, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), New York, NY | June 2010 – July 2015
Investigated criminal misuse of firearms and explosives, firearms trafficking, acts of arson
Conducted routine bomb threat management training for private and government organizations
Prepared written reports and thoroughly communicated findings and conclusions to superiors and in courtroom proceedings
Education
Juris Doctor (JD)
St. John’s University, Queens, NY | 2015
Master of Public Administration (MPA)
City College of New York, New York, NY | 2013
Bachelor of Political Science
St. John’s University, Queens, NY | 2008
Certifications
Certified Government Financial Manager (CGFM), Association of Government Accountants (AGA), 2019
Certified Federal Contract Manager (CFCM), National Contract Management Association (NCMA), 2017
Certified in Federal Regulations (CFR), The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), 2015
Frequently Asked Questions: Federal Resume Examples and Advice
How do you align your resume with a federal job description?
According to USAJobs.gov, a federal resume typically has more information and details than a civilian resume. What’s most important is that when applying for a particular position, you align your skills with those the government agency is seeking. Incorporate some of the same keywords from the job announcement and pay special attention to eligibility requirements.
What is the best federal resume format?
In most cases, a reverse-chronological order format is the most common way to apply for a federal position. It gives recruiters a narrative of your job history while also highlighting your key accomplishments and qualifications.
Expert advice:
Include a cover letter with your resume
Including a corresponding cover letter with your resume can help you stand out and call attention to any unique details you want to share. For example, if you worked in the private sector, you can discuss transferable skills that you have attained. Review our lawyer cover letter for some ideas. Other cover letter examples to review include our law enforcement cover letter guide and our social work cover letter.
Andrew Stoner is an executive career coach and resume writer with 17 years of experience as a hiring manager and operations leader at two Fortune 500 Financial Services companies, and as the career services director at two major university business schools.
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