From USAJOBS Help
When you leave the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps VISTA, you have a certification of non-competitive eligibility for Federal jobs. This means that a Federal agency can hire you outside of a formal competitive announcement process for a vacant position. Appointments must be made within 1 year after the Volunteer completes the qualifying service. The agency may extend the period for 2 more years to a total of 3 years if the individual, after the qualifying service, is in the military service; is studying at a recognized institution of higher learning; or has been involved in another activity which, in the agency's view, warrants an extension.
When searching for jobs on USAJOBS.gov, go to the advanced search page and elect yes to whether you are an applicant with non-competitive eligibility in the applicant eligibility section. Also, be sure to note your service in the Peace Corps or AmeriCorps VISTA on your resume and attach your description of service to your application.
Please know that agencies can only hire an eligible volunteer for positions an individual is qualified to perform. Thus, non-competitive eligibility does not necessarily entitle an individual to a position within the federal government. Instead, the individual must meet qualification standards and additional requirements, such as a background investigation.
