Many a UMGC student, whether recently graduated or still in school, becomes interested in pursuing a federal job. These jobs can range from administrative and cybersecurity positions to tax specialists working in a governmental capacity. You might find that a degree could help land you a job in one of these areas. If you are still in school, you might begin your federal job search now in order to capitalize on one of the many internships or part-time positions offered in the federal job space. The federal job sector presents a wide-open field that is very welcoming to anyone looking for a solid career.
The Government Is Here to Help
While you can surely begin your federal job search by going to the government data base USAJOBS - The Federal Government's official employment site, there are many programs to assist applicants in their federal job search.
The Pathways Internship Programs are especially attractive to UMGC students who are currently pursuing certificates or degrees. Both part-time and full-time paid internships are available through these programs, with a high degree of potential for many of these federal job internships to be converted into a permanent position after students complete their program’s degree or certificate requirements.
The Workforce Recruitment Program or WRP is a recruitment and referral program connecting nationwide federal sector employers with college students and recent graduates with disabilities.
Also, the Virtual Student Federal Service or VSFS connects U.S. Citizens who are enrolled in college with a variety of federal agency internships.
A Spotless Record Doesn’t Hurt
As with most jobs we apply for, federal jobs are filled by comparing one applicant’s past experiences, education, notable skills, and past employment records to another. In a federal job though, a failed drug test or a serious past criminal record could keep one from being hired, more so than if one were applying for a job in the private sector. A spotless work and conduct record surely doesn’t hurt when making your way through a federal job search.
Look at the Local Level
One doesn’t even need to go as far as exploring federal government programs to find help with federal-level jobs. For instance, in Maryland, where UMGC is located, our state Workforce Development partners with federal, state, and local programs to help the unemployed and underemployed across the state find jobs. Maryland is not the only state in the U.S. to offer a program such as this, as much for folks looking for federal jobs as any other.
A Military ‘In’
With UMGC ranking at the top of the scale as one of the most trusted schools for military and veterans, we have a vested interest in seeing ex and current military students find jobs, whether they are interested in federal jobs or not. The good news is that, as stated on the Military Times website, “By law, government agencies must give veterans' preference over other applicants in the hiring process.” So, there are incentives for military personnel seeking federal sector jobs. Of course, one’s service status does not guarantee employment, and the usual scrutiny of federal job applicants still applies if one has been a service member.
The path to a fulfilling career in the federal job sector is an exciting journey for our students and alumni alike. As UMGC continues to be a trusted institution for military and veterans, we remain dedicated to supporting all students on their journey toward successful federal careers.
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