Learn How to Use Your Preferences in the Federal Hiring Process

Veteran hiring preferences are a powerful tool that can give you a significant advantage when applying for federal jobs. However, many veterans are either unaware of how to fully utilize these preferences or may not be taking full advantage of them. In this guide, we’ll provide a more in-depth look at how veteran preferences work, how to claim them, and strategies to maximize their impact on your federal job search.

1. Understanding Veterans’ Preference Categories

There are three main types of veteran hiring preferences that apply to federal job applicants. Understanding each of these categories is essential to ensuring you are maximizing your chances of getting hired.

5-Point Preference

Veterans who served during wartime or during certain designated periods are eligible for a 5-point preference. This means that when federal agencies score applicants, you’ll receive five additional points.

These points can make a big difference when competing for a highly competitive position.

Eligibility Criteria: Veterans who served for at least 180 consecutive days, any part of which occurred during a war, or a campaign or expedition for which a campaign medal has been authorized.

10-Point Preference

Veterans with a service-connected disability or those receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension from the VA are eligible for a 10-point preference. This is the highest level of veteran preference, and it places you ahead of most non-veteran applicants in the selection process.

Eligibility Criteria: A 10-point preference applies to veterans with a disability rating from the VA or those receiving compensation due to service-related injuries. Spouses, widows, and certain family members may also qualify in specific cases.

Zero-Point (XP) Preference

Veterans who do not qualify for 5- or 10-point preferences but meet certain eligibility criteria can still claim “Zero-Point” preference status. This can provide advantages in certain competitive service positions and allow veterans to apply for jobs otherwise closed to the public.

Fast Federal Resumes can help you determine which veteran preference category you fall under and ensure that your resume and application reflect this in the best way possible.

2. Understanding the Application of Veterans’ Preference

Veterans’ preference gives you a significant advantage, but it only applies to certain types of jobs and in specific situations. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

Competitive Service Jobs

In most competitive service positions, federal agencies are required to apply veterans’ preference in hiring decisions. When a hiring manager reviews applications, veterans who meet the qualifications for the job must be given additional consideration before non-veteran applicants. Your 5- or 10-point preference is applied to your final score during this process.

Excepted Service Jobs

Not all federal jobs fall under the competitive service category. Positions in agencies like the CIA, FBI, and certain intelligence agencies may be classified as “excepted service” roles, where veterans’ preference may not apply.

Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans

Veterans’ Recruitment Appointment (VRA): This authority allows agencies to appoint eligible veterans to positions without competition, making it a significant advantage for veterans with little or no prior federal experience.

30% or More Disabled Veteran: Veterans with a 30% or higher disability rating may qualify for direct hire opportunities through this special hiring authority. Agencies may offer non-competitive appointments based on this preference.

Veterans Employment Opportunities Act (VEOA): This law allows veterans to apply for positions that would otherwise be open only to current federal employees. VEOA gives veterans expanded access to internal job openings.

Fast Federal Resumes can help you navigate these hiring authorities and ensure your resume reflects your eligibility, increasing your chances of landing a federal job.

3. How to Claim Your Veterans’ Preference

Claiming your veterans’ preference involves submitting the correct documentation to prove your eligibility. Here’s what you need to know:

Required Documents

DD-214: Your DD-214 is proof of your service and is the most important document for claiming veterans’ preference. Be sure to include a copy of your DD-214 that shows the type of discharge (honorable or general) and dates of service.

VA Disability Letter: If you are claiming a 10-point preference due to a service-connected disability, you will need to submit a letter from the VA that details your disability rating.

SF-15 Form: The SF-15 is required for veterans who are claiming a 10-point preference. This form provides additional proof of eligibility and is used by hiring agencies to verify your veteran status.

Fast Federal Resumes can help you organize your documents and ensure that your submission is complete and accurate, so you don’t miss out on your preference.

Where to Upload Documents

USAJOBS Profile: Make sure to upload your veteran preference documents, such as your DD-214, SF-15, and VA letter, directly to your USAJOBS profile. Once uploaded, they will automatically be included with every federal job application you submit.

Application Submission: When applying for federal jobs, double-check that your veteran status is correctly reflected in your application and that all necessary documents are attached.

4. Maximizing the Impact of Your Veterans’ Preference

Veterans’ preference doesn’t automatically guarantee you’ll get the job, but it can significantly enhance your competitiveness. Here are some strategies for maximizing the impact of your preference:

Tailor Your Resume to Each Job

Veterans’ preference helps you get ahead, but you still need a strong resume to back it up. Make sure your resume is tailored to match the job description and includes relevant skills, experience, and accomplishments. Use keywords from the job announcement to ensure your resume makes it past applicant tracking systems (ATS).

Fast Federal Resumes specializes in creating federal resumes that are keyword-optimized and aligned with job announcements, ensuring your veteran preference isn’t wasted.

Apply Broadly and Strategically

While veterans’ preference gives you an edge, it’s important to cast a wide net. Apply to multiple positions across different agencies, and don’t be afraid to apply for jobs outside your primary career field. Many veterans are hired for roles based on transferable skills, leadership experience, and the flexibility that comes from military service.

Use Veteran-Specific Resources

Take advantage of veteran-specific job boards and programs like VA for Vets, Feds Hire Vets, and veterans’ career fairs. These resources often provide access to jobs that are specifically targeted to veterans and may include special hiring authorities.

Fast Federal Resumes can help you target job openings that are most likely to benefit from your veterans’ preference and provide guidance on broadening your application strategy.

5. Veteran Preference in Interviews and Beyond

Your veteran preference doesn’t just apply to the application process—it can also be a topic of discussion during interviews and evaluations.

Showcase Your Military Experience: During interviews, emphasize how your military service has prepared you for the specific challenges of the job. Highlight your leadership experience, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.

Understand the Interview Process: Federal job interviews are often structured and may follow the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method. Be prepared to answer questions using this format and incorporate examples from your military career that demonstrate your qualifications.

Final Thought:
Veterans’ preference is an invaluable tool that can help you land a federal job, but you need to use it strategically. By understanding the different categories, claiming your preference correctly, and maximizing its impact with a strong resume and application strategy, you can significantly boost your chances of success. Fast Federal Resumes is here to support you at every step of the process—from crafting your resume to ensuring your veteran status is fully leveraged. Reach out to us for a complimentary resume critique and take full advantage of your veterans’ preference today!