Ten Common Misconceptions About Federal Employers That Aren't Always True
Jobs Available at Federal Employers
Government jobs are subject to Federal civil service rules and regulations, which are further augmented by additional statutes and Executive orders. Agencies are able to offer competitive compensation and benefits packages.
Administrative employees are responsible for managing processes like payroll, training, and standard operating procedures. They work in offices and government buildings and also at remote sites.
Administrative
The government agencies need people to perform a variety administrative tasks, which range from data collection and analysis to specialized research. Some of these jobs require a bachelor’s degree while others require only a high-school diploma or GED. fela lawsuit settlements what the position it's crucial to follow the directions in the job advertisement carefully to ensure that your application is complete and satisfies all requirements.
As a Federal employee, you are protected from discrimination on the basis of race, gender or religion, age, national origin or sexual orientation by civil service laws and Executive Orders, including Title VII. These laws apply to all aspects of employment, including hiring and firing, compensation, assignments and classification promotions, transfers, and layoff. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission enforces these laws.
Working for the Federal Government also has a benefit that is that the government will do all it can to help you find a job if the one you have is eliminated as a result of the budget being cut or a consolidation. This doesn't mean you can't be fired if there's a valid reason, such as poor performance, disciplinary action, or budget reductions.
Many federal employers offer good retirement and health benefits, including defined benefit pensions. In addition, federal employees are eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program to help pay off educational loans. Most organizations have an Employee Assistance Program staffed by qualified professionals who assist employees in dealing with stress, depression and substance abuse. These programs can also aid with child or elder care. They can also assist with financial issues, such as balancing your checkbook or filing your taxes. The federal government also provides flexible work options like telework or reduced work schedules.
Professionals
Federal workers have a wide selection of opportunities to get meaningful jobs. They can assist in the development of vaccines, fight discrimination based on race and sexuality and tackle climate change issues. They also enjoy great compensation and benefits like low-cost life insurance, flexible schedules like telecommuting and generous sick and vacation time. Many agencies offer educational assistance including financial aid for graduate degrees.
Many employees find the work challenging and demanding but also rewarding. They feel that their work has a purpose and contributes to the public. The federal government is responsible for a number of the top jobs on the list of "Best Workplaces".
Federal job applicants can use various ways to look into career paths and apply, but the most effective method is via USAJobs. The site has a variety of resources to help you explore careers and applying for jobs, including tips on navigating the lengthy and detailed federal application process.
There is a common misconception that you must be connected to someone from the federal government to be eligible for an opportunity. The majority of positions in the federal government are open to anyone. All applications are reviewed and the most qualified candidates are referred to hiring managers. The site also offers an invaluable resource to find positions that are available to you based on your particular major or background.
Technical
The federal government offers a wide variety of technical jobs that allow applicants to utilize their knowledge and skills. Tech jobs in the federal government are generally more lucrative and offer advantages that are competitive compared to those in private industry. Average salaries are higher in the federal sector than in the private and non-profit sectors and pension and health insurance plans are better than those in the majority of private businesses.
A report published in January shows that the number of federal positions has increased on Handshake by 22% since last year. As a result, the number of applicants to these positions has increased by 55 percent. The increased job security, benefits, and the work-life integration that come with working for the government attracts those who are interested.
A career in tech within the federal government is an excellent choice for those who are interested in working in a wide range of industries that include national security medical, science and research. Federal agencies require employees to design buildings, carry out medical research and ensure safety of airplanes. There are also positions for people with a background in technology including managing and maintaining computer systems.
Qualification standards for these roles will vary based on the agency, but include the person's education background as well as relevant work experience. For instance computer-related jobs could require a bachelor's degree in information technology or a related field, in addition to knowledge of databases. The applicant will also need to be knowledgeable about the transfer of information from source to destination and have an knowledge of how to build and support a system. Digital forensics and Web administrators analyst are two computer-related jobs that are available in the government. These positions aren't as common in the federal government as are those with a military focus however, they are still present in some agencies such as the Department of Defense and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Blue-Collar
Federal employees can pick from a variety of blue-collar positions. They are mostly work-related positions that include jobs such as plumbers, welders, electricians and construction workers. Many of these jobs require training or apprenticeships that are specialized. They can pay hourly wages or be salary-based, and are often accompanied by benefits of unions.
Blue-collar jobs are more physically demanding than white collar jobs, but they also provide a sense of security. These workers will always be required to offer the skills and services they provide. Toilet pipes can break, wires can burn, and packages must be delivered. The work-life balance can be difficult, but there are a myriad of ways that these workers can keep a healthy equilibrium and work at home or on weekends.
Similar to their counterparts in the private sector, federal workers perform many valuable and important tasks, including the development of vaccines against deadly diseases to fighting discrimination based on race and gender and combating climate change. Many people decide to work in the government because of the job security and the opportunity to serve their country.
If a job announcement states that it is open to “Agency Employees,” this means that current Federal employees of the Department that published the vacancy could apply. It is crucial to read the "Area of Belief" or "Who Can Apply" section, as certain announcements do not specify that students and temporary Federal employees (also called time-limited Federal employees) are not eligible.
One of the best ways to locate a Federal blue-collar job is to network and meet with people who are already working in the field. It's not uncommon for friends or relative to know someone who works in the field that you are interested in, so don't be afraid to contact your social circle.
Clerical
Clerical jobs, sometimes called administrative or office support roles, focus on handling the details and completing routine tasks for organizations. The most common clerical jobs include answering calls, handling customer or office requests and recording and maintaining important records and company information. They may also perform office machine duties such as operating photocopiers, voicemail systems, and scanners. Office clerks are also responsible to communicate with colleagues or clients to answer questions, answer messages, or address complaints from customers. Other common clerical duties include updating mailing databases and delivering and picking up documents and mail, as well as handling packages.
Office clerks are employed in a variety of different industries and government agencies. A medical billing clerk, for instance is responsible for preparing and filing insurance claims and handles incoming and outgoing mail at an health care facility. A receptionist at a hospital handles front desk phones, directs visitors or patients to rooms for patients and keeps inpatient and outpatient records.
The qualifications most relevant to clerical positions will depend on the job and industry. For most entry-level positions, computer skills are essential. A high school diploma or its equivalent is also required. The ability to work under pressure and pay attention to detail are also desirable qualifications for clerical jobs. Math is useful for clerical jobs, since many of them require some sort of working with numbers. The most qualified candidates have a professional demeanor and are proficient in proper telephone etiquette as well as email protocol. They also must have a great customer service experience. It may be useful to give examples of when they have demonstrated excellent customer service or problem-solving abilities in previous positions.