The Department of the Navy (DON) has a wide variety of occupations that are available to veterans who are preparing for the civilian workforce. Applying to positions within the federal government is one way to continue serving the United States. Below are step-by-step guides to help apply for federal employment with the DON.
All of the DON job opportunity announcements are posted on USAJOBS. Carefully follow the “How to Apply” section within the job opportunity announcement.
Applying For Civilian Jobs
All of the Department of the Navy job opportunity announcements are posted on USAJOBS. Carefully follow the “How to Apply” section.
STEP 1: Set Up Your USAJOBS account.
Go to USAJOBS and create an account. Using the USAJOBS resume builder, enter information for your federal resume.
STEP 2: Get Your Military Education and Training Transcripts and Upload
Get the Sailor/Marine American Council on Education Registry Transcript(SMART) by clicking here. SMART documents American Council on Education (ACE) recommended college credit for military training and occupational experience. SMART is an academically accepted record that is validated by ACE.
Upload documents such as SMART Transcripts, DD 214 (Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty), SF 15 (Application for 10-pt veteran preference). If not yet separated, you can get a Statement of Service from your local Personnel Support Detachment that describes your "Character of Service". Upon separation, you will be required to submit a copy of your DD 214 (member-4). (Log in to your account and go to My Account, Saved Documents).
STEP 3: Search for job opportunities
Find out how your military occupation codes relate to federal civilian jobs and then begin searching for federal jobs.
STEP 4: Review announcements and set up notifications
Note: USAJOBS allows applicants to store up to five different resumes. Click here for detailed guidance on the job application process.
Additional Resources
Tutorials/Webcasts on finding and applying for a federal government job using USAJOBS can also be viewed via YouTube: Find & Apply for a job with the Federal Government Tutorial.
Contact a transition assistance counselor at your local Fleet and Family Service Center. Programs and services are currently delivered from 81 sites worldwide, with 58 of those sites delivering a full portfolio of programs and services. Find your local Fleet and Family Support Center.
Veterans should first pursue the resources and support provided through their local Fleet and Family Support Centers (FFSC). Resources and information are also available through the Feds Hire Vets website. Additional questions on DON civilian employment information may be directed to the DON Employment Information Center by emailing DONeic@navy.mil or calling 1-800-378-4559.