Are you seeking a fulfilling career path within the U.S. Federal Government? The Government Print Office (GPO) offers a unique opportunity to contribute to vital public services. As the official printing and digital content dissemination agency, GPO prides itself on a dedicated workforce passionate about their craft. If you are an energetic and innovative individual, GPO could be the ideal place to leverage your talents in a challenging yet rewarding environment.
Why Choose a Career at the Government Print Office?
Employees at the Government Print Office are not just staff members; they are skilled professionals who take immense pride in their abilities and dedication to public service. The GPO boasts a diverse team, encompassing a wide range of administrative and technical expertise. This dynamic agency provides essential and innovative services to other federal agencies, managing everything from printing and publishing to the secure storage and distribution of critical digital content. For individuals seeking more than just a job, but a career where inventiveness is valued and contributions are meaningful, the Government Print Office offers a compelling prospect.
Alt text: Dedicated professionals at the Government Print Office collaborating on a project.
Applying for Positions at the Government Print Office
Navigating the federal job application process might seem daunting, but resources are readily available to guide you. The USAJOBS Resource Center is your primary point of reference for comprehensive instructions on applying for any Federal job, including those at the Government Print Office. Detailed guidance, including video tutorials, can be found on the How to Apply for Federal Jobs resource, ensuring you understand each step.
To enhance your application and avoid common errors, it is highly recommended to download and review the helpful guide on Top Job Application Mistakes. This resource provides invaluable insights into crafting a strong application that stands out.
Regularly reviewing vacancy announcements is crucial. Explore the list of openings at the Government Print Office and identify positions that align with your skills and interests. Carefully follow the specific instructions detailed in each announcement. For those new to Federal Government employment, prioritize vacancy announcements explicitly open to “all U.S. citizens” to ensure eligibility.
Alt text: Step-by-step guide to successfully completing a federal job application for the Government Print Office.
Essential Information for Your GPO Job Application
To effectively evaluate your qualifications and confirm your eligibility for Federal employment, the Government Print Office requires specific information within your application. To expedite the selection process, ensure your resume or application is concise, focused, and includes only the requested materials. Always remember to clearly state the announcement number, job title, and grade level(s) for each position you are applying for. Applying for a specific announcement is mandatory for consideration.
Your resume must include the following information, where applicable:
- Full legal name, complete mailing address (including zip code), and both daytime and evening telephone numbers with area codes.
- Country of citizenship – note that most Federal jobs, including those at the Government Print Office, require United States citizenship.
- Details regarding veteran’s preference and any relevant supporting documentation, if applicable.
- Reinstatement eligibility documentation, if applicable. This may include attaching your SF 50 form as proof of your career or career-conditional status.
- Highest Federal civilian grade held previously, including the job series and dates held.
- Name, city, and state of your high school and the date of your diploma or GED.
- Name, city, and state of all colleges and universities attended, listing the type and year of any degrees received. If no degree was obtained, specify the total credits earned and whether they are semester or quarter hours. Only send copies of your college transcripts if specifically requested in the job vacancy announcement.
For further guidance on crafting an effective resume for federal positions, resources like Resume Writing are available, offering valuable tips. Additionally, understanding how to communicate your qualifications effectively is key, as highlighted in resources like 5 Tips for Communicating Your Qualifications. If you have military experience, it’s helpful to understand how military rank and grade translate to Federal pay grades, as discussed in Does Military Rank and Grade Qualify Me for a Specific Federal Pay Grade or Level?.
When detailing your work experience, include both paid and non-paid roles. For each role, provide the following (job descriptions are not required):
- Job title, including series and grade if it was a Federal position.
- Detailed description of duties and accomplishments.
- Employer’s full name and address.
- Supervisor’s name and current phone number.
- Precise starting and ending dates (month and year), hours worked per week, and salary earned.
- Indicate whether the Government Print Office may contact your current supervisor.
- List any job-related training courses, including the title and year of completion.
- Specify job-related skills such as other languages spoken, computer software/hardware proficiencies, tools operation, typing speed, etc.
Further enhance your application by including:
- Job-related certifications and licenses (only current ones).
- Job-related honors, awards, and special accomplishments, such as publications, memberships in professional or honor societies, leadership activities, public speaking engagements, and performance awards. Include dates but do not send supporting documents unless requested.
- Directly address the knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) listed in each vacancy announcement. It is often beneficial to submit a separate narrative, dedicating one page per KSA statement, as part of your complete application package.
Key Eligibility Requirements for GPO Employment
Individuals with prior military service may be eligible for veterans’ preference, offering additional points in the hiring process. If you are a veteran, attach a copy of your most recent DD-214, Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, or an official letter from the Veterans Administration that substantiates your military service.
To claim a 5-point veterans’ preference, simply attach a copy of your DD-214. For those claiming a 10-point veterans’ preference, you must attach an SF-15, Application for 10-Point Veterans’ Preference, along with all required supporting documentation as outlined in the form. More detailed information regarding veterans’ preference and eligibility can be found at FedsHireVets.gov.
Citizenship is a fundamental requirement for Federal employment at the Government Print Office. You must be a United States citizen to be considered for any position.
In compliance with the Selective Service System, if you are a male over the age of 18, born after December 31, 1959, you are generally required to have registered with the Selective Service System (or have a recognized exemption) to be eligible for a Federal job.
Prior to being hired at the Government Print Office, you will be required to complete a Declaration for Federal Employment. This form is used to determine your suitability for Federal employment and authorizes a comprehensive background investigation. You will also be required to sign and certify the accuracy of all information provided in your application. Be aware that any false statements made at any point in your application process can lead to disqualification from hiring, termination after employment begins, and potential fines or imprisonment.
For further clarification on any aspect of Federal employment, visit the Frequently Asked Questions section on the USAJOBS website. To explore current job vacancies at the Government Print Office and across the Federal government, you can Search Current Job Vacancies. Embark on a rewarding career path at the Government Print Office and contribute to the essential services that support the nation.
