IV. The Merit System Process

The majority of jobs in the Federal government are in the "competitive service," which means that they are filled under a merit system; therefore, you must compete with other similarly qualified applicants and be found among the best qualified in order to be referred for further consideration. The initial form of competition is accomplished based upon review of your application, and occurs before the interview process, which is another key difference from the private sector. Again, this is why it is so critically important to submit a full and complete resume.

If you have never held a permanent job in the Federal competitive service, you are a nonstatus applicant and may apply only to vacancy announcements which accept applications from nonstatus applicants, i.e., jobs advertised as "open to all sources," or "open to all qualified persons." There are exceptions to this rule that apply to certain veterans, persons with disabilities, and persons who qualify under other special appointing authorities described on page 5 in this guide.

If you are among those subsequently contacted for an interview, this process is no different from that in the private sector. Your College Career Services Office can offer assistance on interview techniques.

Exhibit 1

Exhibit 2

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Starting Your Career at the U.S. Department of Labor

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