Federal Resume Format Guide: How to Write an OPM-Compliant Resume (2026)
Master the federal resume format with this complete guide. Learn OPM requirements, required fields like hours per week, CCAR format, and avoid auto-rejection on USAJOBS.
Learn how to write OPM-compliant resumes, navigate USAJOBS, and land your federal career.
Your corporate resume won't work for government jobs. Learn the 7 critical differences between federal and private sector resumes that determine whether you get hired.
87% of federal resumes fail OPM compliance. Learn the exact OPM requirements, common rejection reasons, and how to pass the initial screening on USAJOBS.
Master the CCAR format (Challenge-Context-Action-Result) used by federal HR specialists. Includes real examples, templates, and tips to get your resume referred.
Master the GS pay scale for federal resumes. Learn how to document your grade, series, and pay information correctly to meet USAJOBS requirements.
Complete guide to veterans preference in federal hiring. Learn 5-point vs 10-point preference, required documentation, and how to claim preference on USAJOBS.
Missing hours per week is the top reason federal resumes get rejected. Learn exactly how to document this OPM-required field for every position and avoid auto-disqualification.
Honest comparison of the top federal resume builders. Find OPM-compliant tools that include required fields, check compliance, and actually help you get hired on USAJOBS.
Avoid these 12 critical federal resume mistakes that auto-reject qualified candidates. Fix missing hours per week, supervisor info, and other OPM compliance issues.
Supervisor contact info is required on federal resumes. Learn how to handle former employers, hostile supervisors, closed companies, and 'may we contact' questions.