WORKING FOR THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT
By Carol Stanton, CGS Career Counselor

Would it surprise you to know that the federal government is the nation's largest employer, with a workforce of over 1.8 million civilians? Would it surprise you to know that the federal government filled 135,000 positions in 2002? Estimates are that in the next few years, more than 50% of federal employees are eligible to retire. With a tight economy and rampant corporate down-sizing, the federal government has become a great place to look for a job!

Why work for the federal government?

Working for the federal government gives you a chance to contribute to your country through public service. In light of the events of the past few years, it has become clear that the federal government has a significant role in everything from national securityto protecting the water we drink and the food we eat. 

     The federal government has a vast array of agencies and need for many different types of skills. Whether you're an accountant, a social worker or an engineer, it's possible to pair your skills and degree with an agency that may be of particular interest to you.  Jobs are located in areas all over the country. Over 84% of the jobs are located outside of Washington D.C. There are 70 federal agencies in the western Pennsylvania area that employ over 22,000 people.

How can find out about jobs with the federal government?

It's a good idea to research the federal Web sites to become familiar with the various jobs and agencies. There are a number of excellent Web sites. Every government job is posted on www.usajobs.opm.gov . The Partnership for Public Services Web site, www.calltoserve.org , also offers information about the various agencies and how to apply, rating factors, internships, 10 Tips for Landing a Federal Job, etc. Jobs specifically for students are listed on www.studentjobs.gov and for federal internships go to www.opm.gov/careerintern . In addition, if you are interested in a specific agency, you should go to that particular agency's Web site.

George Buck, Director of the Federal Executive Board of Pittsburgh, had this advice about finding a job in the federal government: "The key is to become familiar with the resources that provide information for federal government vacancies. There are over 10,000 jobs posted on the website of the Office of Personnel Management (www.usajobs.opm.gov ). So, learn about the Web sites, how to apply, and what qualifications are necessary. Many jobs just require a bachelor's degree but some want specialized training. Also, get to know someone from the federal agency that you are interested in. Attending Federal Career Day is a good opportunity to meet people from the various agencies. It is highly recommended that students do internships. This is a great way to get acquainted with a federal agency. If someone needs help in locating a contact in a federal agency, contact me at the Federal Executive Board of Pittsburgh."

Which agencies have offices in Pittsburgh?

      Some of the federal agencies with offices in Pittsburgh include:  FBI, Peace Corps, Social Security Administration, Bureau of Public Debt, National Credit Union, Federal Mediation Service, IRS-Criminal Investigation Division, Department of Veterans Affairs, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, Department of Energy, National Labor Relations Board, Department of Labor, Department of the Interior, Department of Treasury, Department of Housing and Urban Development, Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Postal Inspectors, U.S. Attorney's Office and the office of Senator Rick Santorum.  

     With the expectation of many job openings in the next few years, the federal agencies are making an effort to educate and recruit new talent. The University of Pittsburgh and other area colleges have been hosting Federal Career Days each year so that students and alumni can find out about job opportunities. Check the University of Pittsburgh Career Services website (www.careers.pitt.edu ) for the date of the next Federal Career Day in Pittsburgh.

     Even if you never thought about working for the federal government, you should explore their websites. There are many benefits to working for the federal government and many opportunities to use your talents to serve the country. Contact your CGS Career Counselor for more information about working for the federal government or for any other career services at
412 624-1689 or email cstanton@pitt.edu .