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Careers Q&As

Documentation

Why do I have to provide a detailed resume?

I submitted my CV with the dates and titles of all my positions, along with a listing of publications. Yet, I was found not qualified and the reason was because my application did not provide enough information. Why is this?

I submitted all of my documentation, but I just realized that I need to edit my documents. May I resubmit revised versions?

I submitted a curriculum vitae (CV) instead of a resume and was not referred, despite meeting all the qualification requirements. Is a CV an acceptable format to list my qualifications, etc.?

Can you provide some resume writing tips regarding addressing the required qualifications for a position?

Eligibility/Qualifications

Which jobs am I eligible to apply for?

What is the assessment passing score for the vacancy, and can I get detailed information about my score?

What are the requirements for becoming an ATF criminal investigator (special agent)?

What are minimum or basic qualifications and how does it affect me as an applicant?

I was previously qualified for a position with a specific title, series, and grade by ATF. Does that mean I will automatically qualify for all future positions with this title and grade?

I received a notice indicating I was eligible, but not referred for a position. Last time that I applied for the same type of position I was referred, so I don’t understand why I wasn’t referred this time.

I received a notice indicating I was eligible, but not referred for a position. Does this mean that I am qualified for the job?

Can a criminal investigator with another Federal agency lateral over to ATF?

Are resumes scanned for keywords by an automated system to find applicants qualified in the ATF application process?

Experience

Some positions have a “specialized experience/educational” requirement. How can I know whether I meet those specialized qualifications?

I’ve been out of the workforce for the past several years. How should I choose which experience(s) to include? Is there a timeframe that deems some work experience or jobs “outdated” or “irrelevant” because they were so long ago?

Is it advisable to apply to jobs for which I do not have experience with? For example, if I have a Law enforcement background, but want to pursue an administrative position, or vice versa?

I have only worked in the private sector and do not know how to equate my experience to the GS scale. How can I figure this out?

I have had background checks conducted on me in private sector positions. Do these background checks carry over to the federal government, or do I need to start the process all over again? Why is it necessary if I do not have any criminal record?

I earned my degree(s) abroad under an entirely different grading system and curriculum. How can I verify that my international degree is acceptable here?

How can I decide which work or educational experiences are relevant to the position I am applying for? Should I over-include, when in doubt, or exclude from my resume?

Hiring Process

Will ATF consider applicants with an arrest record or with a history of drug use?

Why is a background investigation needed?

Why does the hiring process take so long?

Is there any way I can track where my application is in the process once I submit it? How will I know if I am being considered or not?