Getting Started
Whenever available, use the Community's on-line methods of submitting resumes. Agencies are increasingly moving to this method of resume submission; some of the agencies only accept resumes in this fashion.
Read and follow the specific application requirements set forth by each agency. To do otherwise will adversely affect your application for employment. This page includes suggestions for ways to improve and tailor your resume for Science and Technology occupations. However, in the event that these guidelines conflict with a specific agency's instructions, disregard these recommendations and follow the agency's requirements.
Review the Content Suggestions outlined below. Highlight these areas in your resume when the suggestions correspond to the requirements specified in the job vacancy announcement.
Content Suggestions
Technical Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): The Engineering and Science Career encompasses a wide variety of work assignments including Scientific and Technical (S&T) intelligence research and development, analysis, collection, and/or operations. S&T analysts and engineers solve complex intelligence problems in such areas as foreign weapons development, weapons proliferation, information warfare, and emerging technology. The relevant skills, knowledge, and education vary according to the specialty area in which the individual works. Carefully read the job vacancy announcement and ensure your resume includes job-related technical expertise. Examples include mathematics, aerospace engineering, or physics.
Education: Include diplomas or degrees awarded from educational institutions. Many of the agencies require a bachelor's degree or a more advanced degree. Do not submit transcripts unless the agency requests them. Some agencies request grade point averages for each educational institution you have attended. Incumbents within the Science and Technology Career often have a bachelor's degree in one of the following scientific disciplines: biology, biotechnology, chemistry, life science, mathematics, microbiology, pharmacology, physics, toxicology, or one of the many engineering disciplines (e.g., aerospace, civil, computer, electrical, electronic, mechanical, materiel, nuclear).
General Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): While technical KSAs may vary depending on the specific agency and job vacancy announcement, many general KSAs are relevant to any Science and Technology occupation. Whenever possible, highlight your capabilities in these areas. In particular, emphasize:
- Critical thinking/analytical skills
- Written communication skills
- Problem-solving skills
- Research skills (e.g., to collect and evaluate data, synthesize large amounts of information)
- Oral expression (briefing) skills
- Reading comprehension skills
- The ability to think creatively
- The ability to work in a team environment (to be a "team player")
- The ability to use the Internet as a research tool
Foreign Language: Foreign language proficiency is essential (or desirable) for some job vacancies. It is to your advantage to disclose any expertise you have in this area. Be specific. List each language. If known, outline your level of proficiency with respect to key tasks such as reading, writing, listening, translation, and transcription. Specific training courses, other instruction, or experience in foreign languages should also be outlined.
Internships or Related Experience: Include job-related experience such as summer internships with government or industry. Laboratory or other research experience may be important for some positions.
Military Experience: Specify any military experience you possess including your rank and job-related experience.
Specialized Background: If relevant, include any specialized background you may have such as previous employment as a military or civilian pilot, navigator, or air traffic controller.
Overseas/In Country Experience: Previous travel, study, work abroad, or residency in overseas locations may be important for some positions. Outline your familiarity with each country/region.
Publications: List or reference publications (or presentations at professional conferences) that demonstrate your technical expertise. In some cases, resume page limits may not allow you to list publications or presentations. However, some on-line resume capabilities include an open text "comments" field for you to provide additional information. If relevant, you may want to mention that you have published in the technical area.
Professional Licenses and Certifications: List job-related licenses and certifications.
Training Courses: Outline any professional training you may have obtained that is directly relevant to the job vacancy.
Honors, Awards, and Other Accomplishments: List any honors, awards, or other accomplishments that are job-related and demonstrate your technical expertise. For example, list professional memberships or performance awards you have received. Mention participation or leadership roles in college and community groups.
Clearances: It is to your advantage to indicate if you currently or previously possess(ed) a clearance (such as a Top Secret clearance).
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