Section 4: Resume Tips

Your résumé is a critical part of your application. Federal résumés differ from private-sector résumés and must contain sufficient detail for qualification review.

• Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder when possible. Guidance is available at: https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/how-to/account/documents/resume/
• Include your job title, employer, dates of employment (month and year), hours worked per week, and detailed descriptions of your duties and accomplishments.
• Address each specialized experience requirement directly using clear, specific examples.
• Human Resources specialists and Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) cannot infer experience from job titles or general statements. Your résumé must clearly demonstrate your qualifications.
• Résumés must not exceed two pages under OPM’s 2025 Merit Hiring Plan.
• Do not use AI-generated, plagiarized, or recycled content. Doing so may result in removal from consideration.

Optional: Make Your Résumé Searchable In USAJobs

USAJOBS allows applicants to make their résumés searchable to federal recruiters. When enabled, your résumé may be visible to HR specialists and hiring officials across the federal government who are seeking candidates with your skills and experience.

You may also choose to participate in the USAJOBS Talent Pool, which allows agencies to identify potential candidates for positions that match their background.

Enabling these features does not guarantee outreach or selection, but it may increase your visibility for future opportunities.