Using USAJOBS: FAQ

1. Where do I find information about GSA job postings?
2. How do I apply for a GSA job posting?
3. The GSA application process asks for my Social Security number. What if I don’t have one?
4. Can I submit one application and automatically be considered for all positions that match my qualifications?
5. I don't work at GSA, but would like to apply for a job that is open to "GSA Employees Only". Can I apply and be considered?
6. What documents do I need to provide GSA to be considered for a job?
7. Who do I contact with a question about a job announcement?
8. The job announcement requires I submit college transcripts, proof of licenses, or certifications — how do I submit them?
9. What is a Standard Form 50 and how do I know if I need it?
10. A job I want to apply for closed yesterday. Can I still submit an application?

 1. Where do I find information about GSA job postings?

The GSAjobs system has been integrated with the Office of Personnel Management’s USAJOBS system as of December 2, 2009. USAJOBS is the federal government’s official career website. It provides centralized access to public job openings for all federal agencies, including GSA.  All current GSA job postings are listed on the USAJOBS website - www.usajobs.gov.

 2. How do I apply for a GSA job posting?

Application requirements vary by position, so it is important to review the job announcement for specific instructions.  For an overview of the general application process, please refer to Using USAJOBS.

 3. The GSA application process asks for my Social Security number. What if I don’t have one?

You need a Social Security number to hold a federal position.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you are entitled to a Social Security number.

If you are not a U.S. citizen, in most cases you cannot hold federal employment.  However, for certain positions and in particular situations, GSA can hire non-citizens.  Those individuals must meet certain legal requirements, as described by the United States Office of Personnel Management (OPM).

 4. Can I submit one application and automatically be considered for all positions that match my qualifications?

No, you must submit a separate application for each job opening. But you can use the resume and other information in your USAJOBS account. Don’t forget that you can create up to five resumes in your account and can tailor them to different types of jobs.

 5. I don't work at GSA, but would like to apply for a job that is open to GSA employees only. Can I apply and be considered?

No. Prior to advertising the job, GSA determines the pool of applicants for the position - GSA employees only, current and former federal employees, or the general public. Once we have made this determination, we only consider applications from that pool.

 6. What documents do I need to provide GSA to be considered for a job?

Application requirements vary by position, so it is important to review the job announcement for the list of required application materials.

TIP: It’s always a good idea to print out the job announcement for later reference. You should carefully review the entire job announcement for full "How to Apply" instructions.

 7. Who do I contact with a question about a job announcement?

Each job announcement includes a point of contact who you can speak to should you have a question.

 8. The job announcement requires I submit college transcripts, proof of licenses, or certifications – how do I submit them?

Refer to the job announcement for specific instructions on how to provide these documents to GSA. The entire application must be received by 11:59 p.m. eastern time of the closing date of the announcement. Generally, a photocopy is sufficient at the application stage. However, if you ultimately are selected for the position, you will be required to provide an official version of any submitted documentation.

 9. What is a Standard Form 50 and how do I know if I need it?

Standard Form 50 is the Notification of Personnel Action. It applies to you only if you are a current or former federal employee and are applying for an announcement restricted to such group. If you are, you must include a copy of your most recent Standard Form 50 with your application as proof of federal service and civil service status.  See “Required Forms” section of the job announcement.

 10. I just found out about a job announcement that closed yesterday. May I still submit an application?

As a general rule, we will not consider applications submitted past the official closing date listed on the vacancy announcement unless an exception has been granted.  For announcements open to U.S. Citizens, preference eligible applicants meeting specific requirements may be entitled to file late up until the time that a certificate is issued to the selecting official.  Refer to www.fedshirevets.gov for more information on the specific requirements.