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 as you transition from service—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. For example: The core objectives of most AmeriCorps*VISTA projects 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.

Applying for Federal Positions

If you serve in AmeriCorps*VISTA, your experience can help you get hired by the federal government. When you satisfactorily complete one full year of AmeriCorps*VISTA service, you earn non-competitive eligibility for federal government jobs. This means that a federal government hiring official may hire you without having to compete with the general public provided that you meet the minimum qualifications for the job. 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, contact the AmeriCorps*VISTA Certifying Officer giving your full name (including names you may have used during service), Social Security Number, and dates of service. A letter will then be sent to you. Duplicate the letter and submit copies with your federal job applications. Please contact: AmeriCorps*VISTA Certifying Officer at alumni@americorps.org.

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.