Getting Started
Whenever available, use the Community's on-line methods of submitting resumes. Agencies are increasingly moving to this method of resume submission; some of the agencies only accept resumes in this fashion.
Read and follow the specific application requirements set forth by each agency. To do otherwise will adversely affect your application for employment. This page includes suggestions for ways to improve and tailor your resume for Information Technology occupations. However, in the event that these guidelines conflict with a specific agency's instructions, disregard these recommendations and follow the agency's requirements.
Review the Content Suggestions outlined below. Highlight these areas in your resume when they are relevant to the requirements specified in the job vacancy announcement.
Content Suggestions
Technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): Individuals working within the Information Technology Career specialize in several different technical areas such as Network Security, Telecommunications, Software Design, Hardware Development, and Customer Service. As a result, relevant skills, knowledge, and education vary according to the specialty area in which the individual works. Carefully read the job vacancy announcement and ensure your resume includes job-related technical expertise. Specifically outline your knowledge of computer programming languages. Other technical KSAs may include:
- Application Programming
- Cable Installation
- Computer File Maintenance
- Configuration Management
- Component Testing
- Database Engineering
- Hardware Engineering
- Installation
- Information Security
- Life Cycle Management
- Networks Engineering
- Security Engineering
- Software Engineering
- System Testing and Evaluation
- Systems Programming
- Technical Assistance
- Technology Design
- Troubleshooting and Repairing
- Web Technology
Education: Include diplomas or degrees awarded from educational institutions. Many of the agencies require a bachelor's degree or a more advanced degree (or related experience) in computer science, computer engineering, information systems, mathematics, network engineering, or a related field. Do not submit transcripts unless the agency requests them. Some agencies request grade point averages for each educational institution you have attended.
General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): While technical KSAs may vary depending on the specific agency and job vacancy announcement, many general KSAs are relevant to any Information Technology occupation. Whenever possible, highlight your capabilities in these areas. In particular, emphasize:
- Oral communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Interpersonal skills
- Written communication skills
- Project management skills (important for some positions)
- Customer service skills
- The ability to work in a team environment (i.e., to be a "team player")
Internships or Related Experience: Include job-related experience such as summer internships with government or industry.
Military Experience: Specify any military experience you possess including your rank and job-related experience.
Professional Licenses and Certifications: List job-related licenses and certifications.
Training Courses: Outline any professional training you may have obtained that is directly relevant to the job vacancy.
Honors, Awards, and Other Accomplishments: List any honors, awards, or other accomplishments that are job-related and demonstrate your technical expertise. For example, list professional memberships or performance awards you have received.
Clearances: It is to your advantage to indicate if you currently or previously possess(ed) a clearance (such as a Top Secret clearance).
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