Potential employers recognize the value of AmeriCorps service. Though your service is not considered employment, the experience you develop through service shows your ability to handle tough tasks, your commitment to seeing things through, and your dedication to working on challenging issues.

You can put your AmeriCorps experience to good use in your career—and your service may give you direct help in being considered for some federal positions.

Build Your Resume

How you include your AmeriCorps experience on your resume and in interviews is important. You should describe briefly but clearly the AmeriCorps program where you served and what you did. Many AmeriCorps assignments include civic engagement, nonprofit and project development, and fundraising. Do not forget to list these skills on your resume.

Ask your project supervisors or co-workers if you can list them as references so potential employers can hear about your successes and accomplishments.

Network with AmeriCorps Alumni

Researching and networking to find jobs is essential when transitioning from one career to another. AmeriCorps alumni can be an excellent resource. Often it is personal connections that help you can get your foot in the door.  Network with fellow alums by joining AmeriCorps Alums, the official organization for AmeriCorps alumni created by alums, for alums.

In addition, you may be able to network with alumni through your program.

Applying for Federal Positions

If you served as an AmeriCorps VISTA (Volunteer In Service to America), your experience can help you get hired by the federal government. Available for one year after you satisfactorily complete a full year of VISTA service, you earn non-competitive eligibility for federal jobs.

After you satisfactorily complete a full year of service, you earn non-competitive eligibility for federal jobs for one year. This one year of non-competitive eligibility begins the first day after you complete your full year of service. Non-Competitive eligibility does not mean that you are guaranteed a federal civil service job. You must locate an agency with a vacancy and interest that agency in hiring you. This benefit does not apply for other AmeriCorps programs.

• To establish your non-competitive status, you'll need proof of eligibility. Once you've completed service, log onto the My AmeriCorps Portal to print off a letter of VISTA certification. Visit my.americorps.gov to register. Visit the Service Letters link to create and print your letter. If your letter is incorrect or the Portal cannot locate your record, please contact the VISTA Member Support Unit at vistamembersupportunit@cns.gov.

Work for the Corporation for National and Community Service

If you're interested in working for the Corporation for National and Community Service, the independent federal agency that oversees AmeriCorps, Senior Corps, and Learn and Serve America, please see the Corporation's list of employment opportunities.