Federal Salary Negotiation?

What happens after you receive a federal job offer, do the same rules apply to salary negotiation that you learned about private sector offers? The short answer is no, but there is some hope. You know you want the job and get your foot in the door, even at a GS-04 or GS-05 level when you are qualified for the GS-07 or GS-09 level.

Federal salary guidelines for GS positions are strict. The vast majority of new federal hires come it at the step 1 of the grade they are hired at. Each GS grade has 10 steps (i.e. GS-07 step 01, GS-11 step 07). Each step involves a small pay increase and if you stay at the same grade, you will move up through the steps at set intervals. These are called WGIs (pronounced wigis).

For advancement to steps 2, 3, and 4 - - - 52 calendar weeks

For advancement to steps 5, 6, and 7 - - - 104 calendar weeks

For advancement to steps 8, 9, and 10 - - - 156 calendar weeks 

The number of weeks are an important piece to keep in mind when entering the work force and trying to get a higher salary offer. It is not salary negotiation, which is why you see awkward attempts to identify what it actually is, a superior qualifications hire. The following information was taken directly for the law:

Superior qualifications or special needs determination. An agency may set the payable rate of basic pay of a newly appointed 
employee above the minimum rate of the grade under this section if the candidate meets one of the following criteria:

1. The candidate has superior qualifications. An agency may determine that a candidate has superior qualifications based on the level, type, or quality of the candidate's skills or competencies demonstrated or obtained through experience and/or education, the quality of the candidate's accomplishments compared to others in the field, or other factors that support a superior qualifications determination. The candidate's skills, competencies, experience, education, and/or accomplishments must be relevant to the requirements of the position to be filled. These qualities must be significantly higher than that needed to be minimally required for the position and/or be of a more specialized quality compared to other candidates; or
2. The candidate fills a special agency need. An agency may determine that a candidate fills a special agency need if the type, level, or quality of skills and competencies or other qualities and experiences possessed by the candidate are relevant to the requirements of the position and are essential to accomplishing an important agency mission, goal, or program activity. A candidate also may meet the special needs criteria by meeting agency workforce needs, as documented in the agency's strategic human capital plan.

To set pay above a step one. An agency may consider one or more of the following factors, as applicable in the case at hand, to determine 
the step at which to set an employee's payable rate of basic pay using the superior qualifications and special needs pay-setting authority:

1. The level, type, or quality of the candidate's skills or competencies;
2. The candidate's existing salary, recent salary history, or salary documented in a competing job offer (taking into account the location where the salary was or would be earned and comparing the salary to payable rates of basic pay in the same location); 
3. Significant disparities between Federal and non-Federal salaries for the skills and competencies required in the position to be filled; 
4. Existing labor market conditions and employment trends, including the availability and quality of candidates for the same or similar positions;
5. The success of recent efforts to recruit candidates for the same or similar positions;
6. Recent turnover in the same or similar positions;
7. The importance/criticality of the position to be filled and the effect on the agency if it is not filled or if there is a delay in filling it;
8. The desirability of the geographic location, duties, and/or work environment associated with the position;
9. Agency workforce needs, as documented in the agency's strategic human capital plan; or
10. Other relevant factors.

Although it seems like you should be able to negotiate, it is very difficult to received a higher step when you first start your federal career. The few instances in which I have seen it happen is when someone has direct experience doing the work that they are hired to do. For example, if you have been an electrician for 10 years and you are hired as an electrician, you may be able to received a superior qualifications appointment. It isn't about potential or your other skills not directly related to the position.

If you believe you have directly related experience, feel free to outline that in an email to the hiring official who made the job offer. You will need to show that you have 52 weeks of experience that makes your more qualified than the step one.

Undergraduate Federal Internship Opportunity

SOC 494D (Sociology of Work and Organizations) offers students the opportunity to get 5 upper division Sociology credits in a seminar structure while also participating in an outside internship. Students can come in with an internship in hand, or apply for internships available through the Sociology Department. These unique, high-level internships offer a great opportunity to see how sociology connects to the working world while at the same time earning sociology credit and developing concrete skills desired by employers. Applications for these internships can be found by following the links below:

·          U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO)

·         U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)

·         King County Sexual Assault Resource Center (KCSARC),  CourtWatch Program

What you will do in these internships?

Depending on the internship, duties vary from intake interviewing/counseling, investigative planning, statistical analysis, research and court monitoring, just to name a few. For detailed descriptions and information on each internship opportunity, click on the links above or go to depts.washington.edu/socprac

What is the time commitment?

This is a two-quarter commitment: winter-spring ’10. Students will receive five graded credits as part of Soc 494D in winter and then can apply for 3-5 additional credits with Soc 399 in the subsequent quarter. Depending on the internship, students must commit to working a minimum of six (6) hours/week for nine (9) weeks. There is also some preliminary training required which will be coordinated after students are selected.

Who can apply?

Juniors and seniors are encouraged to apply, especially those who can show some previous experience and skills related to the duties expected of the internship (again, refer to complete internship descriptions on depts.washington.edu/socprac.)  Preference will be given to Sociology majors, but we will consider all applications.

How to apply:

We will require a short application for each position, including a one-page statement of purpose which will also serve as a writing sample. (You are certainly welcome to apply for more than one position.)

DEADLINE for APPLICATIONS: Monday, November 8, 2010.

Questions?

Email Gretchen Ludwig at gludwig@uw.edu or call 206-685-6794

Federal Career Opportunities in the Puget Sound: Environment and Science

Who: Representatives From Local Federal Agencies
What: Panel Discussion
When: October 28, 2010 @ 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Parrington Hall, Commons


Representatives from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), US Geological Survey (USGS), US Army Corps of Engineers, Forest Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will join us for a moderated discussion  followed by an open question and answer period. 

There will also be a short presentation on the breadth of environmental and science careers within the federal government. 

This will be a great chance to hear how a variety of individuals got their start as a federal employee and what positions their agencies will be hiring for in the next few months. 

International Environmental Policy Presentation

Who: Gilbert Castellanos, Environmental Scientist, EPA
What: Presentation
When: October 18, 2010 @ 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Where: Parrington Hall, Room 108 

Please join us for an interesting presentation about UN/NAFTA level international policy discussions. There will be opportunities to ask questions and meet with him 1-on-1.

Gilbert Castellanos is an Environmental Scientist at the Washington, DC offices of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Originally hired into the Federal Government by the US Army Corps of Engineers in San Francisco, Gilbert joined the US EPA in 2002 through the EPA Intern Program.  During his 2-year internship, Gilbert worked in several different EPA offices and with the Department of Interior before taking his current position in 2004 at the Office of International Environmental Policy. 

His responsibilities over the last 4 years have focused on managing the EPA's engagement with multilateral and other international organizations, principally with the United Nations (UN). Recently, Gilbert took over new responsibilities for engaging Canada and Mexico on meeting our commitments to environmental provisions of the North America Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). 

Gilbert graduated with honors in 2000 from the University of California, Berkeley where he received simultaneous degrees from the College of Natural Resources in Environmental Sciences (B.S.) and the College of Letters and Science in Anthropology (B.A.). Originally from California, Gilbert has lived in Arlington, Virginia for the last 7 years.  He is an avid fisherman and enjoys mountain biking and photography.

Presidential Management Fellowship Information Session

Presidential Management Fellowship Information Session

Are you interested in a great job after finishing grad school? One that comes with a salary of $48,000 to $69,000, possible student loan repayment of up to $60,000, extensive training, a great network of mentors, and excellent health and retirement benefits?  

Then consider applying for the Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) - a special, paid, 2-year fellowship program in the federal government, which is exclusively for students finishing a graduate program between 9/1/2010 and 8/31/2011. Come learn about the required application materials, assessments, deadlines, opportunities, and the short-term and long-term benefits associated with being a Presidential Management Fellow.  Also, hear from agencies who hire fellows and from individuals who recently secured or completed PMF positions.  No registration required.  Learn more about PMF at - https://www.pmf.opm.gov/ 

Thurs, 9/30, 4:30-6:00, Smith 120

http://careers.washington.edu/Calendar?trumbaEmbed=view%3Devent%26eventid%3D90588456

This event is only open to UW graduate students.

Job Opportunity: US Department of Labor, Seattle, WA

U.S. Department of Labor

Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs Regional Office

Announces a Career Intern Opportunity 

Job Opportunity: Located in downtown Seattle, the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs (OWCP) is offering a unique and challenging job opportunity for three, two-year, paid internship under the Federal Career Intern Program. During the internship, you will participate in a formal training program with job assignments to develop competencies applicable to our mission and needs.  Upon successful completion of the internship, you will be eligible for a permanent appointment (time spent in the internship is included in total career service.).  The internship is full-time with benefits.

WHAT IS THE JOB?  Workers’ Compensation Claims Examiner, GS-0991

WHAT IS THE STARTING SALARY?  $50,628 - $65,812 per year, GS-09

IS THERE PROMOTION POTENTIAL?  Yes, to GS-12: $73,420 - $95,444 per year 

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR DUTIES? The Office of Workers' Compensation Program provides compensation and medical benefits to injured Federal employees.  As a Claims Examiner, you will make legal and medical decisions to help injured Federal workers.   You will determine their medical benefits, pay and assist injured workers to fully recover, return to modified work or participate in vocational rehabilitation services. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?  Our outstanding benefits package includes:

• Interesting work which Helps People 
• Flexible Schedule 
• Health Care Benefits, Life Insurance
• Flexible Schedule
• Health Care Benefits, Life Insurance

• On-the-job Training
• 2 1/2 Weeks Paid Vacation per year
• Paid Sick Leave and Holidays
• Employer-matching Retirement Plan
• Paid Transportation Subsidies

EMPLOYMENT / ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
U.S. Citizenship
Background Investigation Required 

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?  ONE of the items listed below.

1. Two full academic years of full-time graduate level education (Master’s or equivalent) in a discipline directly related to claims examining.  Related disciplines include, but are not limited to, psychology, public administration, labor relations, business administration, law, finance, economics, political science, statistics, accounting, and other social sciences.  –OR-

2. One year of experience equivalent to the GS-7 (advanced trainee) grade level in the Federal Service assisting with or performing the following:  adjudicating less difficult disability claims for traumatic injuries such as fractures or contusions occurring on the job; applying medical knowledge of various physical and mental impairments and physical requirements for a wide variety of jobs; ensuring that the payments of compensation and related medical expenses by the insurance carrier for the employer are correct and timely; applying workers’ compensation statues, regulations, precedents and guides; developing cases that are contested or likely to be contested in preparation for an informal or pre-hearing conference to be conducted by a higher level claims examiner.  –OR-

      C.  Combination of A and B.

Qualified applicants will be asked to provide a short writing sample during the interview. This sample will be used as an additional source of information regarding your ability to communicate in writing, an important aspect of the work of this position. 

TO APPLY: Email or fax a resume and a copy of all college transcripts (if qualifying based on education), to U.S. Department of Labor, Human Resources Division, ATTN: Annie Tran. Fax: 415-625-2414  Email:  fed-jobs-san@dol.gov.  Reference announcement number FCIP-10-SF-OWCP-024. 
Include month/year dates for all period of employment.  If you have held any part-time positions, include number of hours worked per week.  Your resume and all supporting documentation must provide sufficient information to support your qualifications.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: All application materials must be received in the Human Resources Office by 4:30 p.m. on Monday, September 27, 2010.  Contact Annie Tran at (415) 625-2401 if you have any questions.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.   Hard of hearing or deaf individuals may contact the Human Resources Office via the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339 (TTY/ASCII).

VETERANS:  If you are a veteran of the U.S. military, you must submit a copy of your DD-214, Report of Discharge, with your application (including character of discharge).  If you are a veteran with a service-connected disability, you should also include a SF-15, Application for 10-point Veterans Preference with the appropriate documentation identified on the SF 15.

NOTICE TO APPLICANTS:  The Department of Labor does not recognize academic degrees from schools that are not accredited by an accrediting institution recognized by the Department of Education.  Any applicant falsely claiming an academic degree from federal employment is subject to removal from federal service.  To receive credit for education outside the U.S., you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign credentials.  For a list of private organizations that are accredited to evaluate foreign education, visit www.naces.org/members.htm.

For more information concerning the Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs: http://www.dol.gov/owcp/

Reasonable Accommodation:  The Department of Labor provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis.

Equal Opportunity Specialist Federal Career Intern Full-Time Position

APPLY NOW FOR A GREAT OPPORTUNITY TO WORK FOR THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IN THE SEATTLE AREA!

Job Opportunity:  Seattle, Washington.  The Office of the Federal Contract Compliance Programs is offering one unique and challenging job opportunity for a two-year, paid internship under the Federal Career Intern Program.  During the internship, you will participate in a formal training program with job assignments to develop competencies applicable to our mission and needs.  Upon successful completion of the internship, you will be eligible for a permanent appointment.

WHAT IS THE JOB?  Equal Opportunity Specialist, GS-360-5/7

WHAT IS THE STARTING SALARY?  $33,414.00-$41,390.00/$41,390-$53,811 per year

IS THERE PROMOTION POTENTIAL? Yes, to GS-12

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR DUTIES? The incumbent of this position assists with providing uniformity and consistency in all technical aspects of compliance reviews, complaint investigations and other related activities, as well as regional adherence to agency policy, procedures, directives, etc.  Also assists senior managers in accomplishing the agency's mission.


WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS? Our outstanding benefits package includes:

• Interesting Work
• Flexible Schedule
• Health Care Benefits, Life Insurance
• 2 1/2 Weeks Paid Vacation per year
• Employer-matching Retirement Plan
• Paid Transportation Subsidies
• On-the-job Training
• Paid Sick Leave and Holidays

EMPLOYMENT/ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

• U.S. Citizenship
• Background Investigation Required

WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO I NEED?  For GS-05, you must have one of the items listed below:

A.    Three years of general experience, one year of which was equivalent to the GS-4 (junior trainee) grade level in the Federal service.  Experience must demonstrate ability to analyze problems to identify significant factors, gather pertinent data, and recognize solutions; plan and organize work; and communicate effectively in writing.  Such experience may have been gained in administrative, professional, technical, investigative, or other responsible work.  -OR-

B.     A bachelor’s degree or completion of 4 academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor’s degree. –OR-

C.     A combination of A and B.

For GS-07, you must have one of the items listed below:

A.    One year of experience equivalent to the GS-5 (entry level trainee) grade level which demonstrates knowledge of the principles, concepts, legal requirements, and methodology of an equal opportunity function and ability to apply this knowledge to perform independent assignments for which there are precedents. -OR-
 
B.     A bachelor’s degree or completion of 4 academic years above high school leading to a Bachelor’s degree meeting Superior Academic Achievement requirements.  Superior Academic Achievement is based on (1) class standing, (2) grade-point average, or (3) honor society membership:

1. Class standing -- Applicants must be in the upper third of the graduating class in the college, university, or major subdivision, e.g., the College of Liberal Arts or the School of Business Administration, based on completed courses;
2. Grade-point average (G.P.A.) -- Applicants must have a grade-point average of:
• 3.0 or higher out of a possible 4.0 ("B" or better) as recorded on their official transcript, or as computed based on 4 years of education, or as computed based on courses completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum; or
• 3.5 or higher out of a possible 4.0 ("B+" or better) based on the average of the required courses completed in the major field or the required courses in the major field completed during the final 2 years of the curriculum; OR
3. Election to membership in a national scholastic honor society -- Applicants can be considered eligible based on membership in one of the national scholastic honor societies listed below. These honor societies are listed at http://www.achsnatl.org/quick_link.asp. -OR-

C.     One full academic year of full-time graduate level education (Master’s or equivalent) in a discipline directly related to administrative duties.  Related disciplines include, but are not limited to, public administration, business administration, finance, industrial organizational psychology, accounting, communication, and other business related fields.  –OR-

D.    Combination of education and experience.

To receive credit for education outside the U.S., you must show proof that the education has been submitted to a private organization that specializes in the interpretation of foreign credentials.  For a list of private organizations that are accredited to evaluate foreign education, visit  http://www.naces.org/members.htm.

HOW TO APPLY: Interested candidates should email or fax a resume and all college transcripts (if qualifying based on education), to:  U.S. Department of Labor, Human Resources Division, ATTN: Rebecca Huey; Fax: 415-625-2414, Email:  fed-jobs-san@dol.gov. Please include your name and announcement number FCIP-10-WA-OFCCP-21 on each page of your resume and supporting documents.  Incomplete applications will not be considered.  Please include month/year to/from dates and number of hours per week worked for each period of employment.

VETERANS:  If you are a veteran of the U.S. military, you must submit a copy of your DD-214, Report of Discharge, with your application.  If you are a veteran with a service-connected disability, you should also include a SF-15, Application for 10-point Veterans Preference with the appropriate documentation identified on the SF 15.

APPLICATION DEADLINE:  Application documents must be received in the Human Resources Office by 4:30 p.m. PT on September 10, 2010.  For additional information, contact Rebecca Huey at (415) 625-2405.  

Reasonable Accommodation:  The Department of Labor provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities on a case-by-case basis.

The United States Department of Labor is an Equal Opportunity Employer

UW's Making the Difference Campaign Featured by the National Initiative

UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON’S MAKING THE DIFFERENCE CAMPAIGN TRIPLES FEDERAL EVENTS, INCREASES PRESIDENTIAL MANAGEMENT FELLOWS FINALISTS BY 550%, AND LEADS TO A NEW BOOK!

Since receiving the Partnership for Public Service’s Call to Serve Innovation Grant in February 2009, the University of Washington has made incredible strides towards building and expanding upon existing relationships with federal agencies.

In May 2009, the Partnership came to campus to train over 30 career counselors and faculty from across our three campuses, representing most of the 16 colleges and schools on campus which reach over 92,000 students per year. At the training, there were 13 representatives from nine different federal agencies in the Seattle area, ranging from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Since launching the program, we have gone from hosting 10 federal events in 2008-09, to 45 events in 2009-10! This includes a successful “Find and Apply for Federal Jobs” workshop series offered by the career center, two panels of speakers on federal internship programs, a large government jobs fair and several employer panels focused on federal opportunities.

Additionally, we have create a Steering Committee of staff across campus, presented at the Northwest Career Educators and Employers Association conference, had a brief spot on local television about federal careers and a front-page article in the campus newspaper about the initiative. Based on the successes of last year, we are already organizing our federal events for the upcoming year.

One of the most significant achievements of our program is the increased awareness of federal hiring programs such as the Presidential Management Fellowship (PMF) program. In September 2009, we held the first university-wide PMF presentation, with several PMF finalists in attendance as well as agencies seeking to hire PMFs. This led to an incredible increase in the number of finalists—UW went from having four finalists in 2008-9, to 22 finalists in 2009-10, a 550% increase!

In addition to these increases, we have launched two outreach initiatives to make students aware of federal careers and to engage federal agencies in the region: our Federal Student Ambassadors Program and our Making the Difference Blog. The Federal Student Ambassadors program is modeled on the Partnership’s Federal Service Student Ambassadors, and utilizes a group of 14 students who have already conducted internships in the federal government. These students serve as our team of promoters for federal events, as well as a bridge to the agencies where they have worked. They also contribute to our Making the Difference Blog. This blog has been an excellent way to make students aware of internships and student programs as well as federal careers in general. We also created outreach initiatives including a Facebook page and a poster campaign highlighting federal job opportunities. The secret behind our success is Elizabeth Streett, the Lead Federal Student Ambassador, who has worked to coordinate many events and programs. Her background as a Human Resource Specialist for the Army for three years has been incredibly helpful in this work.

Participation in the Call to Serve program has also helped one of the grant coordinators, Heather Krasna, Director of Career Services at the Evans School of Public Affairs, with her new book, Jobs That Matter: Find a Stable, Fulfilling Career in Public Service. This new book covers careers in federal, state, local and multilateral government entities, as well careers that benefit the public in the nonprofit and corporate sectors.

Heather worked with staff at the Partnership to identify two of the professionals who are profiled in the book, Cathleen Berrick, Managing Director, Homeland Security and Justice at the Government Accountability Office and a Service to America Medals medalist, and Kristen Taddonio, Lead, Strategic Climate Projects, Climate Protection Partnerships Division of the EPA. Heather also had the great privilege of working with the Partnership’s CEO, Max Stier, as he wrote the forward to her book. Max’s summary of Jobs That Matter? “Reading this book is a smart step on the journey to both finding a fulfilling job and serving the nation.”

Check out Heather’s book, Jobs That Matter: Find a Stable, Fulfilling Career in Public Service, on Amazon.com

Networking in Washington D.C.

University of Washington Evans School of Public Affairs Professor Mark Long shares with us his experience searching and networking for internships in Washington D.C. He landed two, one with the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) in Washington D.C.

I worked as a summer intern in D.C. in 1996 for the Office and Management and Budget (OMB), and 1997 for the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).  I served in these positions during the summer after completing an M.P.P. at the University of Michigan and after my first year completed as a Ph.D. student respectively.  When I went about the task of landing a D.C. internship in 1996, I was at a loss for how to find an internship.  The best decision that I made was to travel to D.C. for spring break and use the whole week to make contacts and do informational interviewing.  I started about a month before spring break calling UM alumni who had DC employment (UM kept a directory that students could access).  These were all cold calls, as I didn't know the individuals before making the calls.  I found these alumni to be invaluable sources of information on how to find internships, what the work would be like, and most importantly who to talk to when I arrived.  Many of these alumni provided me introductions to staff who agreed to meet with me for short informational interviews.  I made sure to tell these individuals that I wanted to ask them about their agency/organization even if there were no internships available (as these interviews would provide valuable insights into future possible employment).  By pre-scheduling these informational interviews, I filled about half of the spring break week, but I had numerous gaps in my schedule.  In the down time, I decided to do cold calling on a variety of organizations (e.g., Urban Institute) and was surprised by their willingness to find staff who were willing to meet with me then or later in the week.  Amazingly, a few of these cold calls resulted in internship offers.  I also went through "normal" channels in applying for internships, and I believe that my OMB and CBO internships were secured through these normal channels.  Nonetheless, I found the process of generating and expanding a network to be an invaluable way to get the lay of the land and to increase my chances of landing a job.

Federal Job Qualifications and Eligibility

How do you know if you are qualified for a federal job? What level should you even begin to look for? After you have found the dream job, are you even eligible to apply?

Unfortunately, or fortunately, the federal government can only hire applicants based on their current level of education and experience. As you probably have noticed, most federal jobs are advertised, starting with a GS and a few numbers. The last two numbers in the GS-0132-09, are the grade level. Each GS grade has specific education and/or experience requirements regulated by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). You can click on http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/standards/indexes/num-ndx.asp to reach the complete index of the “qualification standards,” which most federal agencies are required to use. You must know the job series, which is the set of four numbers on the Series & Grade line of the vacancy announcement to look up a specific position. For example, in GS-0132-09/09 you will need to click on the 0100 group, followed by 0132.

Most people with a bachelor’s degree and little to no experience enter the federal system at the GS-05 level. GS-05 level positions require three years of general experience OR a bachelor’s degree. If you are applying to be an engineer or a scientist, there may be required coursework or majors. After the GS-05 level, the qualifications requirements change for assistant, support and clerical positions. The following will be only related to professional, scientific, administrative and management positions. For example, a Management Analyst would gather and analyze data and statistics, coordinate with various high-level officials and perform work without close supervision. A Management Assistant may assist with the above duties, while performing office support work and doing basic research for their organizations. To determine if a specific series is covered by the following, please click on the following link: http://www.opm.gov/qualifications/Standards/group-stds/gs-admin.asp#OCCUPATIONS.

With a Bachelor’s degree and an outstanding academic record, you could qualify for the GS-07 level, skipping the GS-05 altogether after undergrad, if you meet the definition of “Superior Academic Achievement.” Superior Academic Achievement requires a 3.0/4.0 cumulative GPA or 3.5/4.0 major GPA. There are additional alternatives for determining eligibility on the hyperlink. If you do not meet these cut-offs, you can still qualify for the GS-07 with one year of specialized experience directly related to the position or one year of graduate school. All grade levels after the GS-05 level include the option for qualifying based on specialized experience and after GS-11, you cannot use education as a substitute for direct specialized experience.

What exactly is “one year of specialized experience”? It is often difficult to glean from the vacancy announcement. Generally speaking the experience would have to come from a similar position or where you performed a lower level of the duties in another environment. If the duties ask the incumbent to perform independent analysis of budget information, then one year of specialized experience could be budget analysis performed with direct guidance from a supervisor. Unless education is an acceptable substitute, agencies cannot hire you on the potential to perform successfully. Many agencies will hire “developmental” positions, where new hires can start with just a degree and no experience and be promoted into the higher grades in the same field.

The GS-09 level requires one year of specialized experience at the GS-07 level or private sector equivalent OR completion of two years of graduate school leading to a degree (includes JD and LLB). The GS-11 level requires one year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level or equivalent OR 3 years of graduate school leading to a degree (including PhD and LLM). After the GS-11 level, there are no educational substitutes and you must have qualifying experience at the next lower grade level. After this point, the positions progress one grade at a time, GS-11 to GS-12 to GS-13, etc.

ELIGIBILITY

Some jobs posted on USAJobs only accept applications from “status applicants.” If you are in the advanced search window, you will see this box. These five bullet points sum up the people that can apply to positions only open to status candidates. If you have already completed a search and are looking at a list of positions that met your criteria, in the upper left hand corner there is a column that starts with “Current Search.” Here you can see that I have clicked jobs that are only open to Public candidates, which is everyone else that doesn’t mean the criteria above. Unfortunately, there are many more jobs open to status candidates that you will be unable to apply for. There are a variety of reasons why an agency might recruit for status candidates, but I will not get into those here.

If you are confused about your eligibility, there are a few key things you can consider about yourself. If you think you may be one of these, you could be a status candidate.

 

1) Do you have a disability?

2) Have you recently completed Peace Corps or AmeriCorps service?

3) Have you served on active duty in the military?

4) Are you married to someone on active duty in the military?

5) Have you ever worked for the federal government in a non-temporary position? For example, summer student work would not qualify you.

Many of these categories should be fairly straightforward to answer.

For more information, feel free to email me at brownea2 at uw dot edu.

Webinar: Federal Resumes and Cover Letters: The New Federal Application According to S.736

If you are interested in working for the federal government, you need to be aware of how the changes to federal hiring legislation will affect you. This webinar will take a closer look at the Executive Order that forced the changes and how it will impact the everyday applicant.

Free Webinar July 22nd 12 Noon EDT "Federal Resumes and Cover Letters: The New Federal Application According to S.736" presented by Kathryn Troutman hosted by Federally Employed Women. Kathryn Troutman, "The Federal Resume Guru" is the author of numerous books on federal hiring and has insights into the entire process.


The Federally Employed Women's Foundation for Education and Training is offering a Free July 22, 2010 (12 noon EDT) Webinar covering the latest changes (Federal Recruitment and Hiring Process Improvement Act May 18, 2010) regarding federal agency recruitment practices and other very beneficial information. Please share the attached flyer with your colleagues and friends. Space is limited. Free webinar Registration is under "webinar schedule" tab at http://www.fewfoundation.org/. This webinar will be recorded for play back on demand effective July 23rd under "webinar recordiings" on the FEW Foundation website.

This is a great federal government career opportunity with the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, open ONLY until July 12. This is a *very* rare chance to get your foot in the door with the federal government (an employer with perhaps the most job stability of any in the economy, plus excellent benefits and opportunities for promotion, but with very, very rare openings for new external hires). Unfortunately, this opportunity is available for US Citizens only. There are positions nationally, including in Portland OR, paying up to $65,195 to start and having significant promotion potential; after 2 years you would also be able to transfer to other federal agencies. There are numerous other benefits (see below).

If you are interested, visit http://jobsearch.usajobs.gov/search.aspx?q=NRCS+trainee+program&where=&brd=3876&vw=b&FedEmp=N&FedPub=Y&x=51&y=11 and http://www.nedc.nrcs.usda.gov/AdminTrainProg/index.html

I am writing to share an exciting career opportunity that should be of interest to you. The news is that over the next few months the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will be hiring 100 trainees to participate in a new USDA Business Management Leaders Program.

Applicants selected for the program will spend two years getting to know the work of the Agency and becoming familiar with the business aspects of our operations. They will gain valuable experience through a series of rotations in up to seven different USDA locations, ranging from field offices to NHQ. Throughout, they will master administrative skills fundamental to our ability to help people help the land.
We are looking for college graduates with degrees in disciplines like human resources, business administration, management, finance, and contracting. They should also be mobile, in order to take advantage of developmental opportunities and for ultimate assignment upon satisfactory completion of training.

Trainees will begin as GS-7s and 9s, with promotion potential to GS-11. In addition to other federal employee benefits, they will receive paid per diem while on rotational assignments. Those who successfully complete the training program may be converted - non-competitively - to a career or career-conditional appointment anywhere in the U.S. More information is available at USA Jobs at www.usajobs.opm.gov.

NASA Johnson Space Center: Space Grant Internship Program

NASA JSC Space Grant fall internships now available


Washington NASA Space Grant Consortium (WSGC) is now screening student applications for fall internships at NASA Johnson Space Center. The 15-week internships will run from August 30, 2010 to December 10, 2010.
Applicants should submit a completed application form, official transcript, resume and cover letter to the WSGC offices at nasa@uw.edu.
Applications must be received by WSGC no later than July 12.
Questions regarding eligibility should be directed to J. Carlos Chavez at the Washington Space Grant office, 206-543-1943, or jcc5@u.washington.edu.

Apply today for Fall 2010!

Program Objectives

• Build a strong relationship between universities, students, and NASA JSC
• Provide hands-on career exploration opportunities for students
• Provide work exposure to the aerospace industry
• Encourage student interest in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields
• Train and develop students for future employment in the aerospace industry

Applicant Requirements

• Enrolled in an accredited college or university pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science or Systems Engineering (STEM related fields)
• Available to work at NASA JSC a minimum of 15 weeks (duration must be acceptable to the organization) during Spring or Fall semester
• US Citizen
• Minimum GPA of 3.0

University of Washington, a Space Grant Consortia member, will provide students with a $7500 stipend and round-trip travel expenses. For their investment, the university will receive:

• The opportunity for your student to gain a semester-long practical experience in applying principles and theories learned in the classroom
• Career development for your student
• The opportunity for your student to participate in NASA sponsored student activities and social events
• Strengthened affiliation between your university and NASA

A Career with the Social Security Administration in Washington State

What do you think of when you hear Social Security Administration? Chances are you don’t think of an exciting job, but I do. My name is Shandee; I work for the Social Security Administration’s Auburn Teleservice Center and I want to give you a little insight to the career waiting for you.

I am a Teleservice Representative or TSR; I answer calls coming into SSA’s national 800#. This is not your typical call center job, it is mentally challenging and extremely rewarding! I help people from all walks of life, in all the various stages of living. In a typical day I help people solve problems with their benefits; missing checks, changing direct deposit, understanding Medicare Premium Billings. I explain the requirements for Social Security Cards, as well as screen individuals to see if they are eligible for benefits and set up appointments at their local office. I answer medical insurance questions, explain how work or other income affects benefits, and schedule repayment plans. I also advise people of their legal rights and help them to file appeals. As you can see, I have to be able to wear many different hats to do my job well. I have to have good listening and communication skills to be effective. I need to be able to think on my feet and put the pieces of the puzzle together- often people don’t know what to ask for or what they need, they just know what their problem is and it is up to me to help them solve it.

When I started this job, I had no idea just how large Social Security was or how many programs it was involved in. I didn’t realize just how far it would push me, how much I would learn, or the differences I would be making in peoples’ lives. I can tell you, without a doubt, that I have saved lives just by answering the phone and doing my job. I love where I work and the people I work with; they create a supportive environment. SSA promotes internally and has many programs that let you try out new positions to find out where you want your career to go. I recently received a JEP as a Program Analyst in Recruiting. A JEP is a 4 month promotion that allows you to expand your knowledge in another position. I get the pay rate and workload of a Program Analyst, and it has allowed me to reach out to you and show you what an opportunity awaits you here.

Perhaps you are wondering what type of degree is required to start here, the answer is none. If you have a Bachelor’s degree in any field you can start as a GS-5 ($33,414), my degree is in English Literature, old English Literature. With related experience you can hire as a GS-6 ($37,246) or even a GS-7 ($41,390). This is an entry level position with a Career Ladder to GS-8 ($45,383); promotions are usually given every year. After a probationary period is satisfied, you can apply for internal job openings. Being a Federal position we have job security, 10 Federal holidays, paid Vacation and Sick Leave, Retirement, Thrift Savings Plan, Health and Life Insurance.

So what happens after you start? Do we expect you to know all of Social Security overnight? No, we provide 13 weeks paid classroom training, on the job training and mentorship so that you can understand, explain and feel comfortable assisting individuals with all the various programs we administer. There is no end to learning here at Social Security; we continue to receive training even after reaching Journey Level.

We are looking for the next generation of Social Security Leaders, are you ready to answer the call?

If you have questions or want more information e-mail me at wa.fo.atsc.recruiting at ssa dot gov.

Foreign Service Oral Assessment Prep Session

On Tuesday, July 13, 2010 at 3:30 p.m., Mr. Ed Ed Kulakowski, the State Department Diplomat-In-Residence for the West Coast, will be on campus to give tips on taking the Foreign Service Oral Assessment. If you have recently passed the FSOT or are on your way to the FSOA, please join us. It will run for about two hours, so you can join us a little late.

WHO: Candidates who have passed the Foreign Service Officer's Test
WHAT: Diplomat-in-Residence FSOA prep
WHEN: July 13, 3:30 to 5:40 p.m.
WHERE: University of Washington-Seattle, Savery Hall 131, (visit http://www.washington.edu/maps/?l=SAV for a map)

The Oral Assessment is an assessment for selection as an entry level Foreign Service Officer. Oral Assessment exercises: are based on a job analysis of the work of the Foreign Service, reflect the skills, abilities and personal qualities deemed essential to the performance of that work, and are not an adversarial process: you do not compete against other candidates but instead are judged on your capacity to demonstrate the skills and abilities necessary to be an effective Foreign Service Officer.

Edward Kulakowski

Diplomat-in-Residence

Ed Kulakowski, a Senior Foreign Service Officer with the Department of State, currently is the Counselor for Press and Culture at the U.S. Embassy in Warsaw, Poland. He previously served as Cultural Attaché in Moscow, Russia (two tours); Public Affairs Officer in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan; America House Director in Yerevan, Armenia; and with the U.S. Information Agency's (USIA) Voice of America and Exhibits Service in Washington D.C. Mr. Kulakowski was initially recruited from Honolulu, Hawaii by USIA in 1978 to serve as an Exhibit Guide on a U.S. exhibition in the Soviet Union. He received BA (1971) and MA (1973) degrees in Russian and Russian/Soviet Areas Studies from the University of Hawaii and was an exchange student at Leningrad State University in 1973-74.

Careers with the US Department of State

Two UW alumni speakers will discuss careers with the US Department of State and answer your questions. This event is sponsored by the Department of Economics and the Jackson School of International Studies, in partnership with the Evans School of Public Affairs. This is a FREE event.


THURSDAY, JULY 8, 2010

3:30 PM
PARRINGTON COMMONS


Jeff Anders

Jeff Anders earned his BA in Economics from the University of Washington in 1997. After, Mr. Anders joined Milgard Manufacturing of Tacoma, WA as the Central and South American Sales Manager. In 1999 Mr. Anders received his securities license and began working as a financial planner specializing in estate planning for GE Capital. The U.S. Department of State offered Mr. Anders a position as a Diplomatic Courier in January of 2008. For the past two and a half years Mr. Anders' responsibilities have involved moving diplomatic material throughout Europe, Africa and Asia. During this time Mr. Anders developed an algorithm for measuring the efficiency of diplomatic courier trips which has yielded significant savings to the U.S. Government. For this effort, Mr. Anders has been nominated for Diplomatic Security Specialist of the Year.

Philip Wall

Philip Wall earned his MA in East Asian Studies in 1975. He also received an MBA in Finance from UW in 1978. Over the course of his 26-year career with the U.S. Department of State, he served in Washington, D.C. and overseas in China, Taiwan, Pakistan, France, New Zealand, and the Bahamas. He was, at various times, Deputy Chief of Mission in Wellington, Director of East Asian Economic Policy in the State Department, and Foreign Affairs Advisor to the Mayor of San Francisco. Mr. Wall retired in 2005, having attained the senior rank of Minister Counselor. Mr. Wall has extensive experience as a foreign affairs analyst, on issues as varied as human rights in Taiwan, trade relations with China, World Bank development goals, and the origins of the Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s. As a negotiator, he helped remove trade barriers to US agricultural products, create new regional trade agreements, set development priorities in the Asian-Pacific Economic (APEC) forum, and shape the policy research agenda at the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). As a senior diplomat, he directed staff and resources, and shaped foreign policy goals, in several State Department units and at an important overseas mission. Mr. Wall completed his early education at the University of Oklahoma, where he earned a BA in History. During his career, he earned professional-level ratings in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese and French.

For more information about this event, please contact Zoe Williams at zlw at uw dot edu or by phone at 206  543  5945.

Ambassador Profile: Amye Hoerner - Social Security Administration

I am a University of Washington political science major from Bremerton, WA. I have been interning for the SSA since December 2009. I started out in the volunteer intern program and received 15 credits from POLS 496. I am now a paid intern and accumulating leave for every pay period. I love the benefits of working for Social Security.

Outside of work I enjoy traveling, snowboarding, and running. I want to get my Masters in Public Administration and perhaps a J.D.

I started at Social Security with an average GPA, little work experience, and no clue about my future. They promised me a valuable experience to put on my resume. However, this internship has turned out to be more than just an application booster. My supervisor is now my mentor. He has provided me with the best resources and advice. I’ve started networking within Social Security and now have no doubt in my mind that I would love to end up here someday.

Amye Hoerner is a new ambassador joining us this summer and into the next school year. If you have any questions about working for the Social Security Administration, feel free to email amyerae at uw dot edu.

Public Service Career and Internship Fair on July 14!

If you are going to be in DC this summer, don't miss out on the opportunity to network with representatives from more than 75 federal agencies at the Eighth Annual Public Service Career and Internship Fair, hosted by the Partnership for Public Service. This year’s event will take place on July 14 from 3:00-7:00 p.m. at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. Admission is FREE and open to the public!
Agencies will be recruiting for a variety of internships and entry-level jobs including:

* Special Agents
* Engineers
* Program Analysts
* Financial Specialists
* Environmental Scientists
* IT Specialists
* Economists
* Contract Specialists
* And more!

The Public Service Career and Internship Fair is a one of a kind event. No other fair connects so many federal agencies with students and recent graduates eager to pursue government work. At the fair, your students and interns will have the chance to meet and interact with government employees, and learn more about their agencies, missions and available positions.

What You Need to Know:

2010 Public Service Career and Internship Fair

July 14, 2010

3:00-7:00 p.m.

National Building Museum

Washington, D.C.

White House Internship--Fall 2010

"This program will mentor and cultivate young leaders of today and tomorrow and I’m proud that they will have this opportunity to serve…I want to commend all who apply for their desire to help through public service to forge a brighter future for our country.”  —President Barack Obama, May 22, 2009

President Obama believes in the capacity of young people to move America forward. He is committed to providing young leaders from across the nation an opportunity to develop  their leadership skills and fostering a continue commitment to public service through the White House Internship Program. This hands-on program is designed to mentor and cultivate today’s young leaders, strengthen their understanding of the Executive Office of the President and prepare them for future roles in public service. To learn more about the program, please visit whitehouse.gov/internships.

How To Apply: www.whitehouse.gov/internships
A completed application includes:
• two essays
• three letters of recommendation
• resume
Deadline for the Summer Internship Program
Deadline June 6

Student Ambassador Opportunity

Do you have a federal internship in DC lined up for this summer? If so, you should consider applying for the Federal Service Student Ambassador postion.

FEDERAL SERVICE STUDENT AMBASSADORS PROGRAM OVERVIEW

GET PAID FOR TALKING TO YOUR FRIENDS ABOUT YOUR FEDERAL INTERNSHIP! BECOME A FEDERAL SERVICE STUDENT AMBASSADOR!

The Federal Service Student Ambassadors program is designed to increase interest in federal service on college and university campuses through developing a group of passionate student advocates who actively promote public service following their completion of a federal internship. Having already completed a federal internship, student ambassadors are in a unique position to speak to their peers about federal service. Through planning events, networking sessions, and meetings with key faculty and staff members, ambassadors raise awareness of the incredible opportunities and benefits of federal service as well as develop creative and innovation approaches to spread the word about public service.

BENEFITS

Are you looking for an opportunity to develop your professional skills while sharing your passion for public service? This program might just be the experience you are looking for! As a Federal Service Student Ambassador, you will have the unique opportunity to lead a major outreach effort on your campus, create an academic and professional network of contacts, write articles for newspapers and magazines, and coordinate with student organizations on campus—all of which contribute to your professional development!

 

Throughout your ambassadorship you will receive regular feedback and assistance from a Partnership coach as well as other ambassadors. To jumpstart your professional development, you will attend a dynamic two-day training in Washington, DC along with the other 2010-11 ambassadors. Additionally, you will receive a $2,000 stipend for your service.

 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work approximately seven hours/week
• Conduct one introductory meeting with Career Services on your campus
• Conduct one end of year meeting with Career Services on your campus
• Conduct three meetings with faculty members
• Conduct three meetings with student group leaders
• Conduct six one-on-one or group advising sessions
• Conduct six presentations or workshops
• Conduct twelve general marketing activities
• Publish two articles
• Collect information on at least 100 leads (students interested in working or interning for federal government)
• Ensure at least twenty-five of your leads apply for a federal job or internship
• Attend the two-day training in Washington, DC on July 21-22.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Enrolled in an internship with a federal agency in Washington, DC for summer 2010
• Enrolled as a student in an accredited degree granting college or university for the 2010-11 academic year
• Demonstrated commitment to public service
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple and varied assignments
• Active involvement and leadership in extracurricular activities.

ABOUT THE PARTNERSHIP FOR PUBLIC SERVICE

The Partnership for Public Service is a dynamic nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that works to revitalize the federal government by inspiring a new generation to serve and transforming the way government works. For more information about the Partnership for Public Service, visit www.ourpublicservice.org.

TO APPLY, PLEASE VISIT http://apps.makingthedifference.org/studentambassadors/default.aspx.

Cybersecurity Positions with the Federal Government

The Federal government is hiring a significant number of graduates into cybersecurity positions that are opening up in many agencies as a result of continued challenges protecting sensitive government and citizen data. Our Information Assurance and Cybersecurity certificate has launched many careers in Federal government employment. The most recent success story is a graduate from 3 years ago who is now being promoted to Director of an important program within the NSA. He is thrilled with his success and with the work. Stories like this are passed on to students to encourage them to consider conversations with NSA and DHS recruiters who come to campus. As an NSA/DHS Center of Excellence, we are in a position to help the Nation fill the void in cybersecurity expertise.




Dr. Barbara Endicott-Popovsky, Director

Center for Information Assurance and Cybersecurity

University of Washington

Big News: Federal Hiring Process Changing

Heard the news yet? 

Spending your free time writing those pesky KSA's? 

Wondering if the hiring process could just SPEED up a little? 

Click here & here for some exciting updates. 

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): Using a Humanities Degree to Protect Human Health and the Environment

In the summer of 2007, I was pursuing a degree in anthropology at the University of Washington, and I was also an intern at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Wait. What? The EPA is in Washington D.C., and besides, what could an anthropology major possibly do at that agency? How did that work?

EPA has regional offices in ten cities across the country that employ thousands to do the work of the agency in the states—and there are plenty of opportunities for the humanities.

My internships at EPA have included creating an Injury and Illness Prevention Guide for employees, reviewing and managing grants, and working with local water systems to track progress in drinking water regulations. Nearly three years later, I am in the Student Career Experience Program working in strategic planning. I am able to earn my master’s degree in Policy Studies and work in a field directly related to my academic education.

In my current job, I work with staff in all the national and regional programs to manage and track progress in applying EPA’s mission: Protecting human health and the environment. I see the diversity of EPA work performed right here in Seattle and the agency’s local impact.

I recently toured the Wyckoff Eagle Harbor Superfund Site, a former wood-treating facility and shipyard on Bainbridge Island where over twenty years of extensive cleanup work has significantly reduced harmful contaminants in the soil, water and air. Areas of the beach in formerly contaminated sections are open to the public while daily cleanup occurs at the new groundwater treatment plant.

At Wyckoff, EPA works with local agencies and groups to keep the cleanup going regularly. Scientists measure contaminants, community coordinators field residents’ concerns and project managers direct the cleanup—these are all professionals with skills from a spectrum of backgrounds.

My internships have allowed me to pursue my interests, align work with my education, and build professional networks in the growing field of environmental issues. Whether you are a biologist, a psychologist, an accountant or a public relations coordinator, there is probably somewhere in the EPA for you to apply your skills. For me, it’s been a perfect fit—I use my humanities degree everyday to protect human health and the environment.
 
Andrea Schrock is a program analyst in strategic planning and regulatory development for EPA Region 10. She works in the Seattle EPA office.

EEOC Visits the Evans School of Public Affairs

On April 14, 2010, Rodolfo Hurtado spoke about Equal Employment Opportunity laws and how their office protects employees from a variety of offenses. His Seattle Office covers Washington, Oregon, Montana, Idaho, and Alaska. The EEOC deals with 5 laws protecting against discrimination: Genetic Information Non-Disclosure Act (GINA), Equal Pay Act (EPA), Title VII (of the Civil Rights Act), Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the American’s with Disabilities Act (ADA). These laws protect against discrimination based on: gender, age (≥40), disabilities, color, nationality of origin, race, religion, and genetic information. All services provided to a complainant are free. 

Although the EEOC is a federal agency, they protect most employees and job applicant candidates who feel they have been discriminated against based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, age (40 or older), disability or genetic information. Depending on the area of discrimination, different rules apply. All federal employees are covered for all types of discrimination, but for other types of employment the rules vary. If the agency that has discriminated against you is covered by the rules, you can file a complaint as an employee, a job applicant, former employee, or an applicant or participant in a training or apprenticeship program. For more information on requirements for filing a complaint, please visit the EEOC’s website. 

EEOC employees are responsible for investigation, mediation, conciliation, litigation and education. When a claim is submitted an officer will be assigned to investigate and make a finding whether there is or is not reasonable cause. If there is reasonable cause, the case will continue into conciliation and finally litigation. Litigation is the final piece, which most parties would like to avoid. Along the way, the EEOC officer will try mediation to resolve the issues. If you feel you have been discriminated against, you can contact the Seattle EEOC office to see what your next steps should be.

Location:	Federal Office Building 909 First Avenue Suite 400 Seattle, WA 98104-1061
Phone:	1-800-669-4000
Fax:	206-220-6911
TTY:	1-800-669-6820
Office Hours:	The Seattle Field Office is open Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Please call first to obtain information and/or schedule an appointment.