CINXE.COM
General Recruitment and Hiring FAQs | CISA
<!DOCTYPE html> <html lang="en" dir="ltr" prefix="og: https://ogp.me/ns#" class="no-js"> <head> <meta charset="utf-8" /> <link rel="canonical" href="https://www.cisa.gov/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs" /> <meta property="og:site_name" content="Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency CISA" /> <meta property="og:type" content="website" /> <meta property="og:url" content="https://www.cisa.gov/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs" /> <meta property="og:title" content="General Recruitment and Hiring FAQs | CISA" /> <meta name="Generator" content="Drupal 10 (https://www.drupal.org)" /> <meta name="MobileOptimized" content="width" /> <meta name="HandheldFriendly" content="true" /> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" /> <link rel="icon" href="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/favicon.png" type="image/png" /> <title>General Recruitment and Hiring FAQs | CISA</title> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/misc/components/progress.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/misc/components/ajax-progress.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/align.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/fieldgroup.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/container-inline.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/clearfix.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/details.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/hidden.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/item-list.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/js.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/nowrap.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/position-container.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/reset-appearance.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/resize.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/system-status-counter.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/system-status-report-counters.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/system-status-report-general-info.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/system/css/components/tablesort.module.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/filter/css/filter.caption.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/core/modules/media/css/filter.caption.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/modules/contrib/better_social_sharing_buttons/css/better_social_sharing_buttons.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/modules/contrib/ckeditor_accordion/css/accordion.frontend.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/modules/contrib/extlink/css/extlink.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/modules/contrib/paragraphs/css/paragraphs.unpublished.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/profiles/cisad8_gov/modules/custom/toolbar_tasks/css/toolbar.css?ss1oyc" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="//fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Montserrat:wght@400;500;600;700&family=Public+Sans:wght@400;500;600;700&display=swap" /> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/css/styles.css?ss1oyc" /> <script type="application/json" data-drupal-selector="drupal-settings-json">{"path":{"baseUrl":"\/","pathPrefix":"","currentPath":"node\/15826","currentPathIsAdmin":false,"isFront":false,"currentLanguage":"en"},"pluralDelimiter":"\u0003","suppressDeprecationErrors":true,"gtag":{"tagId":"","consentMode":false,"otherIds":[],"events":[],"additionalConfigInfo":[]},"ajaxPageState":{"libraries":"eJxdjkFuxCAMAD_EwpOQAYfQOBjZpt38vhyyu2ovlmdkyZPQDCUq5wYUdQdpvcY0zbhrULtoscsHlmYsEXJmKY17eG9-E-6GvTh82ro-QpE5gPyNrjJXwmhQQ13jP3v4gudfebo69adoSIJQsswzvUwlTkDuXD0QtkYr3mcYtkLcAIEqMHZ9JXyMn33MRE13LE4vNTxDAkVnzJRA1mc9NNzkpm5YKn_Huws60GUtayCG8njjI5f-C5H5ft4","theme":"guswds","theme_token":null},"ajaxTrustedUrl":[],"gtm":{"tagId":null,"settings":{"data_layer":"dataLayer","include_classes":false,"allowlist_classes":"","blocklist_classes":"","include_environment":false,"environment_id":"","environment_token":""},"tagIds":["GTM-53QLXSL9"]},"data":{"extlink":{"extTarget":false,"extTargetAppendNewWindowLabel":"(opens in a new window)","extTargetNoOverride":false,"extNofollow":false,"extTitleNoOverride":false,"extNoreferrer":false,"extFollowNoOverride":false,"extClass":"ext","extLabel":"(link is external)","extImgClass":false,"extSubdomains":true,"extExclude":"(.\\.gov$)|(.\\.mil$)|(.\\.mil\/)|(.\\.gov\/)","extInclude":"","extCssExclude":".c-menu--social,.c-menu--footer,.c-social-links,.c-text-cta--button,.usa-footer__contact-info","extCssInclude":"","extCssExplicit":"","extAlert":true,"extAlertText":"You are now leaving an official website of the United State Government (USG), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). Links to non-USG, non-DHS and non-CISA sites are provided for the visitor\u0027s convenience and do not represent an endorsement by USG, DHS or CISA of any commercial or private issues, products or services. Note that the privacy policy of the linked site may differ from that of USG, DHS and CISA.","extHideIcons":false,"mailtoClass":"mailto","telClass":"","mailtoLabel":"(link sends email)","telLabel":"(link is a phone number)","extUseFontAwesome":false,"extIconPlacement":"append","extPreventOrphan":false,"extFaLinkClasses":"fa fa-external-link","extFaMailtoClasses":"fa fa-envelope-o","extAdditionalLinkClasses":"","extAdditionalMailtoClasses":"","extAdditionalTelClasses":"","extFaTelClasses":"fa fa-phone","whitelistedDomains":[],"extExcludeNoreferrer":""}},"ckeditorAccordion":{"accordionStyle":{"collapseAll":1,"keepRowsOpen":0,"animateAccordionOpenAndClose":1,"openTabsWithHash":1}},"user":{"uid":0,"permissionsHash":"0f75d40308887aebba0d5b0d2671305b73c9431902f86e672380a6dc6ab97d07"}}</script> <script src="/core/misc/drupalSettingsLoader.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/google_tag/js/gtag.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/google_tag/js/gtm.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="https://dap.digitalgov.gov/Universal-Federated-Analytics-Min.js?agency=DHS&subagency=CISA&yt=true" id="_fed_an_ua_tag" async></script> </head> <body class="path-node not-front node-page node-page--node-type-page" id="top"> <div class="c-skiplinks"> <a href="#main" class="c-skiplinks__link u-visually-hidden u-focusable">Skip to main content</a> </div> <noscript><iframe src="https://www.googletagmanager.com/ns.html?id=GTM-53QLXSL9" height="0" width="0" style="display:none;visibility:hidden"></iframe></noscript> <div class="dialog-off-canvas-main-canvas" data-off-canvas-main-canvas> <div class="l-site-container"> <section class="usa-banner" aria-label="Official government website"> <div class="usa-accordion"> <header class="usa-banner__header"> <div class="usa-banner__inner"> <div class="grid-col-auto"> <img class="usa-banner__header-flag" src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/images/us_flag_small.png" alt="U.S. flag" /> </div> <div class="grid-col-fill tablet:grid-col-auto"> <p class="usa-banner__header-text">An official website of the United States government</p> <p class="usa-banner__header-action" aria-hidden="true">Here’s how you know</p></div> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-banner__button" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="gov-banner"> <span class="usa-banner__button-text">Here’s how you know</span> </button> </div> </header> <div class="usa-banner__content usa-accordion__content" id="gov-banner"> <div class="grid-row grid-gap-lg"> <div class="usa-banner__guidance tablet:grid-col-6"> <img class="usa-banner__icon usa-media-block__img" src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/images/icon-dot-gov.svg" alt="Dot gov"> <div class="usa-media-block__body"> <p> <strong>Official websites use .gov</strong> <br> A <strong>.gov</strong> website belongs to an official government organization in the United States. </p> </div> </div> <div class="usa-banner__guidance tablet:grid-col-6"> <img class="usa-banner__icon usa-media-block__img" src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/images/icon-https.svg" alt="HTTPS"> <div class="usa-media-block__body"> <p> <strong>Secure .gov websites use HTTPS</strong> <br> A <strong>lock</strong> (<span class="icon-lock"><svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" width="52" height="64" viewBox="0 0 52 64" class="usa-banner__lock-image" role="img" aria-labelledby="banner-lock-title banner-lock-description"><title id="banner-lock-title">Lock</title><desc id="banner-lock-description">A locked padlock</desc><path fill="#000000" fill-rule="evenodd" d="M26 0c10.493 0 19 8.507 19 19v9h3a4 4 0 0 1 4 4v28a4 4 0 0 1-4 4H4a4 4 0 0 1-4-4V32a4 4 0 0 1 4-4h3v-9C7 8.507 15.507 0 26 0zm0 8c-5.979 0-10.843 4.77-10.996 10.712L15 19v9h22v-9c0-6.075-4.925-11-11-11z"/></svg></span>) or <strong>https://</strong> means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. </p> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </section> <div class="c-block c-global-header-btns c-global-btns"> <div class="l-constrain l-constrain"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div id="block-globalbuttons" class="c-block c-block--provider-block-content c-block--id-block-content83069f9f-34fc-4d54-86ec-936a204f8088"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div class="c-field c-field--name-body c-field--type-text-with-summary c-field--label-hidden"> <div class="c-field__content"><p><a class="c-button c-button--basic c-button--blue" href="/resources-tools/resources/free-cybersecurity-services-and-tools" title="Free Cyber Services">Free Cyber Services</a><a class="c-button c-button--basic c-button--green60" href="/securebydesign">Secure by design </a><a class="c-button c-button--basic c-button--teal" href="/node/18883">Secure Our World</a><a class="c-button c-button--campaign" href="/node/8056">Shields Up</a><a class="c-button c-button--report" href="/report">Report A Cyber Issue</a></p></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="usa-overlay"></div> <header class="usa-header usa-header--extended" role="banner"> <div class="usa-navbar"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="usa-navbar__row"> <div class="c-block c-site-header"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div id="block-guswds-cisaheaderblock" class="c-block c-block--provider-block-content c-block--id-block-contentbc4e6844-86b4-4e20-b163-a73bda3d1d76"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div class="c-field c-field--name-body c-field--type-text-with-summary c-field--label-hidden"> <div class="c-field__content"><a href="/"><img src = "/sites/default/files/images/SVG/header_logo_tagline_update.svg" alt="Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency logo America’s Cyber Security Defense Agency National Coordinator For Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience"/><img class="print-only" src = "/sites/default/files/images/SVG/header_logo_tagline_update.png" alt="Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency logo America’s Cyber Security Defense Agency National Coordinator For Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience"/></a></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="c-block c-site-header-mobile"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div id="block-guswds-cisaheaderblockmobile" class="c-block c-block--provider-block-content c-block--id-block-content283396c9-cd36-4ce3-b1e2-9b5576ab4f50"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div class="c-field c-field--name-body c-field--type-text-with-summary c-field--label-hidden"> <div class="c-field__content"><a href="/"><img src = "/sites/default/files/images/SVG/mobile_logo_wordmark.svg" alt="CISA Logo"/></a></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="usa-navbar__search"> <div class="usa-navbar__search-header"> <p>Search</p> </div> <div class="usa-search"> <script async src=https://cse.google.com/cse.js?cx=ffc4c79e29d5b3a8c></script> <div class="gcse-searchbox-only" data-resultsurl="/search"> </div> </div> </div> <button class="mobile-menu-button usa-menu-btn">Menu</button> </div> </div> </div> <div class="c-block c-tagline-mobile"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div id="block-guswds-mobiletaglinecontainer" class="c-block c-block--provider-block-content c-block--id-block-contentc8d12e9d-7e48-4708-90c1-563609c4b566"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div class="c-field c-field--name-body c-field--type-text-with-summary c-field--label-hidden"> <div class="c-field__content"><p><center><img src = "/sites/default/files/images/SVG/header_tagline_mobile_update.svg" alt = "America's Cyber Defense Agency" /></center></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <nav class="usa-nav" role="navigation" aria-label="Primary navigation"> <div class="usa-nav__inner l-constrain"> <div class="usa-nav__row"> <button class="usa-nav__close">Close</button> <div class="usa-search"> <script async src=https://cse.google.com/cse.js?cx=ffc4c79e29d5b3a8c></script> <div class="gcse-searchbox-only" data-resultsurl="/search"> </div> </div> <ul class="usa-nav__primary usa-accordion"> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item topics"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="basic-mega-nav-section-1"> <span>Topics</span> </button> <div id="basic-mega-nav-section-1" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="usa-megamenu__parent-link"> <a href="/topics">Topics</a> </div> <div class="usa-megamenu__menu-items"> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/cybersecurity-best-practices"> <span>Cybersecurity Best Practices</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/cyber-threats-and-advisories"> <span>Cyber Threats and Advisories</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/critical-infrastructure-security-and-resilience"> <span>Critical Infrastructure Security and Resilience</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/election-security"> <span>Election Security</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/emergency-communications"> <span>Emergency Communications</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/industrial-control-systems"> <span>Industrial Control Systems</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/information-communications-technology-supply-chain-security"> <span>Information and Communications Technology Supply Chain Security</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/partnerships-and-collaboration"> <span>Partnerships and Collaboration</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/physical-security"> <span>Physical Security</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/topics/risk-management"> <span>Risk Management</span> </a> </div> </div> </div> <div class="c-menu-feature-links"> <div class="c-menu-feature-links__title"> <a href="/audiences"> How can we help? </a> </div> <div class="c-menu-feature-links__content"><a href="/topics/government">Government</a><a href="/topics/educational-institutions">Educational Institutions</a><a href="/topics/industry">Industry</a><a href="/topics/state-local-tribal-and-territorial">State, Local, Tribal, and Territorial</a><a href="/topics/individuals-and-families">Individuals and Families</a><a href="/topics/small-and-medium-businesses">Small and Medium Businesses</a><a href="/audiences/find-help-locally">Find Help Locally</a><a href="/audiences/faith-based-community">Faith-Based Community</a><a href="/audiences/executives">Executives</a><a href="/audiences/high-risk-communities">High-Risk Communities</a></div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item spotlight"> <a href="/spotlight" class="usa-nav__link" > <span>Spotlight</span> </a> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item resources--tools"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="basic-mega-nav-section-3"> <span>Resources & Tools</span> </button> <div id="basic-mega-nav-section-3" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="usa-megamenu__parent-link"> <a href="/resources-tools">Resources & Tools</a> </div> <div class="usa-megamenu__menu-items"> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/resources-tools/all-resources-tools"> <span>All Resources & Tools</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/resources-tools/services"> <span>Services</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/resources-tools/programs"> <span>Programs</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/resources-tools/resources"> <span>Resources</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/resources-tools/training"> <span>Training</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/resources-tools/groups"> <span>Groups</span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item news--events"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="basic-mega-nav-section-4"> <span>News & Events</span> </button> <div id="basic-mega-nav-section-4" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="usa-megamenu__parent-link"> <a href="/news-events">News & Events</a> </div> <div class="usa-megamenu__menu-items"> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/news-events/news"> <span>News</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/news-events/events"> <span>Events</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/news-events/cybersecurity-advisories"> <span>Cybersecurity Alerts & Advisories</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/news-events/directives"> <span>Directives</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/news-events/request-speaker"> <span>Request a CISA Speaker</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/news-events/congressional-testimony"> <span>Congressional Testimony</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/cisa-conferences"> <span>CISA Conferences</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/cisa-live"> <span>CISA Live!</span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item careers"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link usa-current" aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="basic-mega-nav-section-5"> <span>Careers</span> </button> <div id="basic-mega-nav-section-5" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="usa-megamenu__parent-link"> <a href="/careers">Careers</a> </div> <div class="usa-megamenu__menu-items"> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/careers/benefits-perks"> <span>Benefits & Perks</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/careers/hirevue-applicant-reasonable-accommodations-process"> <span>HireVue Applicant Reasonable Accommodations Process</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs"> <span>Hiring</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/careers/resume-application-tips"> <span>Resume & Application Tips</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/students-recent-graduates-employment-opportunities"> <span>Students & Recent Graduates</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/careers/veteran-and-military-spouse-employment-opportunities"> <span>Veteran and Military Spouses</span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> <li class="usa-nav__primary-item about"> <button class="usa-accordion__button usa-nav__link " aria-expanded="false" aria-controls="basic-mega-nav-section-6"> <span>About</span> </button> <div id="basic-mega-nav-section-6" class="usa-nav__submenu usa-megamenu" hidden=""> <div class="usa-megamenu__parent-link"> <a href="/about">About</a> </div> <div class="usa-megamenu__menu-items"> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/about/divisions-offices"> <span>Divisions & Offices</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/about/regions"> <span>Regions</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/about/leadership"> <span>Leadership</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/doing-business-cisa"> <span>Doing Business with CISA</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/site-links"> <span>Site Links</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/cisa-github"> <span>CISA GitHub</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/cisa-central"> <span>CISA Central</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/about/contact-us"> <span>Contact Us </span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/about/contact-us/subscribe-updates-cisa"> <span>Subscribe</span> </a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-col"> <div class="usa-nav__submenu-item"> <a href="/eeo-policies"> <span>Policies & Plans</span> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </li> </ul> <div class="c-block c-global-menu-btns c-global-btns"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div id="block-globalbuttons" class="c-block c-block--provider-block-content c-block--id-block-content83069f9f-34fc-4d54-86ec-936a204f8088"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div class="c-field c-field--name-body c-field--type-text-with-summary c-field--label-hidden"> <div class="c-field__content"><p><a class="c-button c-button--basic c-button--blue" href="/resources-tools/resources/free-cybersecurity-services-and-tools" title="Free Cyber Services">Free Cyber Services</a><a class="c-button c-button--basic c-button--green60" href="/securebydesign">Secure by design </a><a class="c-button c-button--basic c-button--teal" href="/node/18883">Secure Our World</a><a class="c-button c-button--campaign" href="/node/8056">Shields Up</a><a class="c-button c-button--report" href="/report">Report A Cyber Issue</a></p></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </nav> </header> <div class="l-breadcrumb"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="l-breadcrumb__row"> <nav aria-labelledby="breadcrumb-label" class="c-breadcrumb" role="navigation"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div id="breadcrumb-label" class="c-breadcrumb__title u-visually-hidden">Breadcrumb</div> <ol class="c-breadcrumb__list"> <li class="c-breadcrumb__item"> <a class="c-breadcrumb__link" href="/">Home</a> </li> <li class="c-breadcrumb__item"> <a class="c-breadcrumb__link" href="/careers">Careers</a> </li> <li class="c-breadcrumb__item"> <span aria-current="page"> General Recruitment and Hiring FAQs </span> </li> </ol> </div> </nav> <div id="block-bettersocialsharingbuttons" class="c-block c-block--social-share c-block--provider-better-social-sharing-buttons c-block--id-social-sharing-buttons-block"> <div class="c-block__content"> <div class="c-block__row"> <span>Share:</span> <div style="display: none"><link rel="preload" href="/modules/contrib/better_social_sharing_buttons/assets/dist/sprites/social-icons--no-color.svg" as="image" type="image/svg+xml" crossorigin="anonymous" /></div> <div class="social-sharing-buttons"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https://www.cisa.gov/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs&title=General%20Recruitment%20and%20Hiring%20FAQs" target="_blank" title="Share to Facebook" aria-label="Share to Facebook" class="social-sharing-buttons-button share-facebook" rel="noopener"> <svg aria-hidden="true" width="18px" height="18px" style="border-radius:3px;"> <use href="/modules/contrib/better_social_sharing_buttons/assets/dist/sprites/social-icons--no-color.svg#facebook" /> </svg> </a> <a href="https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=General%20Recruitment%20and%20Hiring%20FAQs+https://www.cisa.gov/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs" target="_blank" title="Share to X" aria-label="Share to X" class="social-sharing-buttons-button share-x" rel="noopener"> <svg aria-hidden="true" width="18px" height="18px" style="border-radius:3px;"> <use href="/modules/contrib/better_social_sharing_buttons/assets/dist/sprites/social-icons--no-color.svg#x" /> </svg> </a> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https://www.cisa.gov/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs" target="_blank" title="Share to Linkedin" aria-label="Share to Linkedin" class="social-sharing-buttons-button share-linkedin" rel="noopener"> <svg aria-hidden="true" width="18px" height="18px" style="border-radius:3px;"> <use href="/modules/contrib/better_social_sharing_buttons/assets/dist/sprites/social-icons--no-color.svg#linkedin" /> </svg> </a> <a href="mailto:?subject=General%20Recruitment%20and%20Hiring%20FAQs&body=https://www.cisa.gov/general-recruitment-and-hiring-faqs" title="Share to Email" aria-label="Share to Email" class="social-sharing-buttons-button share-email" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> <svg aria-hidden="true" width="18px" height="18px" style="border-radius:3px;"> <use href="/modules/contrib/better_social_sharing_buttons/assets/dist/sprites/social-icons--no-color.svg#email" /> </svg> </a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <main id="main" class="c-main" role="main" tabindex="-1"> <div class="l-content"> <article class="c-article"> <div class="c-page-title"> <div class="c-page-title__inner l-constrain"> <div class="c-page-title__row"> <div class="c-page-title__content"> <h1 class="c-page-title__title"> <span>General Recruitment and Hiring FAQs</span> </h1> </div> </div> <div class="c-page-title__decoration"></div> </div> </div> <div class="c-wysiwyg"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="c-wysiwyg__inner"> <div class="c-field c-field--name-body c-field--type-text-with-summary c-field--label-hidden"> <div class="c-field__content"><figure class="c-figure c-figure--large c-figure--image u-align-left" role="group"><div class="c-figure__media"><img loading="lazy" src="/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/2024-04/Spring%20into%20CISA_01.jpg?itok=CMWUD1qG" width="1024" height="683" alt="OCHCO staff photo (diverse group of men and women wearing pink) at Spring into CISA: In-Person Hiring Event. Group is in front of event branding and computer screens."></div></figure><p>CISA searches for talented and highly motivated professionals across many career fields to continue our mission of securing the nation's critical infrastructure. As most know, the federal hiring process is different than applying for a position in the private sector. While the process can be confusing to navigate, we have gathered our most frequently asked questions and provided answers to assist you in applying for a position with CISA.</p><h4>How To Apply</h4><dl class="ckeditor-accordion"><dt>Where can I find CISA’s job announcements?</dt><dd><p>There are several paths to federal employment with CISA!<br><br>Please visit <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/" title="USAJOBS">www.usajobs.gov</a> and keyword search for “Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.” </p><p>Applications are also accepted through the <a href="https://dhscs.usajobs.gov/Home" title="DHS Cybersecurity Talent Management System">DHS Cybersecurity Talent Management System</a> (CTMS).</p></dd><dt>How do I apply through USAJOBS?</dt><dd><p>Create your account on <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/" title="USAJOBs">www.usajobs.gov</a>; upload your resume and supporting documents, as requested in the announcement. Click the “Apply” button on the announcement, attach your resume, supporting documents, and answer the assessment questions. You may also be directed to submit a longer USAHire Assessment. </p></dd><dt>What is the Cyber Talent Management System (CTMS)?</dt><dd><p><a href="https://dhscs.usajobs.gov/" title="DHS Cybersecurity Service">The DHS Cybersecurity Service</a> is supported by a new federal personnel system called the DHS Cybersecurity Talent Management System (CTMS), which will modernize federal hiring through a new, streamlined hiring process, competitive compensation structures and meaningful career development opportunities. </p></dd><dt>How do I apply through the DHS Cybersecurity Service? </dt><dd><p>To learn more about available opportunities, please visit the <a href="https://dhscs.usajobs.gov/Apply" title="DHS Cybersecurity Service portal">DHS Cybersecurity Service portal</a>. <a href="https://dhscs.usajobs.gov/media/microsite/dhscs/resources/Application_Process.pdf" title="Application Process overview">You can download a brief overview of the application process</a>, including information on how to apply and what to expect. </p></dd><dt>Do I have to apply through USAJOBS? </dt><dd><p>We always recommend that you apply online to any job announcement that interests you. CISA also hosts <a href="/job-offer-hiring-events-faqs" title="Hiring Events">hiring events</a> where eligible and qualified candidates may be selected. Learn more about <a href="/special-recruitment-opportunities" title="Special Recruitment opportunities">special recruitment opportunities</a> and the documents needed when applying. Candidates not eligible for at least one of the special recruitment opportunities must apply to <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Search/Results?a=HSCA" title="CISA Vacancies">CISA's vacancies online</a> or <a href="https://dhscs.usajobs.gov/Apply" title="CTMS">through CTMS</a>. </p></dd><dt>How do I participate in a CISA career fair or hiring event?</dt><dd><p>CISA participates in both virtual and in-person hiring events. The best way to participate is to find career and hiring events <a href="/news-events/events?f%5B0%5D=event_type%3A49" title="CISA is Attending">CISA is attending</a> and then register to attend. You can also subscribe to our distribution list or follow us on social media to find out about our upcoming events. Some of these events are one-stop hiring events, where qualified and eligible candidates can meet with recruiters and hiring teams, interview with hiring officials and receive a job offer as part of the event. Others are more general or targeted to specific populations, like veterans. Learn more about <a href="/job-offer-hiring-events-faqs" title="Hiring Events and How to Prepare">hiring events and how to prepare</a>.</p></dd><dt>How can I stay up-to-date on future job opportunities?</dt><dd><p>To receive email notifications when new CISA positions are announced, set up a “saved search” on <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/" title="USAJOBs">www.usajobs.gov</a> (account creation is required) with keyword “Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.” Find us on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/cybersecurity-and-infrastructure-security-agency" title="LinkedIn">LinkedIn</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/cisagov/" title="Twitter">Twitter</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CISA/" title="Facebook">Facebook</a>, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cisagov/" title="Instagram">Instagram</a>, and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxyq9roe-npgzrVwbpoAy0A" title="YouTube">YouTube</a>. You can also check our <a href="/news-events/events?f%5B0%5D=event_type%3A49" title="Hiring Events">hiring events page</a> to be the first to know when CISA will conduct the next hiring event! Finally, <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCISA/subscriber/new?qsp=CODE_RED" title="Subscribe to Email Updates">subscribe to receive email updates</a> on one or more of our careers subscription topics.</p></dd></dl><h4>Hiring Process</h4><dl class="ckeditor-accordion"><dt>I applied and did not hear anything back. What does this mean?</dt><dd><p>Applications go through a pre-screening process before reaching hiring managers for review. USAJOBS will notify you if you have been referred to a hiring manager or did not pass the pre-screening process. You can also check the status on your USAJOBS application dashboard or reach out to the contact information at the bottom of the announcement. You can view the announcements for positions that have closed by accessing your USAJOBS application dashboard. </p></dd><dt>What is a tentative job offer?</dt><dd><p>Congratulations! This means you have been tentatively selected for a position with CISA. All tentative offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of pre-employment requirements listed in your tentative offer letter. </p></dd><dt>I just received my tentative job offer! When should I give notice to my current employer?</dt><dd><p>After receiving your tentative job offer, you will begin the pre-employment process, which includes drug testing and a background investigation. <strong>You should not give notice to your current employer until you have been notified you have successfully completed all pre-employment requirements and have a firm offer in hand.</strong> A CISA HR Specialist will reach out to you and coordinate a mutually agreeable official start date. You’ll then receive an official firm offer letter with a reporting date and instructions.</p></dd><dt>How long does the pre-employment process take?</dt><dd><p>The pre-employment process can take weeks or months depending on the depth of the background check and your responsiveness to the different steps (i.e., drug testing, completing security forms, etc.). </p></dd></dl><h4>General Hiring FAQs </h4><dl class="ckeditor-accordion"><dt>Do I need a clearance to apply?</dt><dd><p><strong>No, you do not need clearance to apply.</strong> If you are selected for a position, a CISA staff member will provide you instructions on how to begin the necessary clearance process once you accept the tentative job offer.</p></dd><dt>What is the difference between the levels of security clearance?</dt><dd><p>Public trust is a suitability check for a low-risk federal position, but it is not a security clearance. Non-Critical Sensitive, Critical Sensitive and Special Sensitive require more in-depth background checks necessary for access to increasingly sensitive information. They are also known as Secret, Top Secret and Top Secret/SCI. Details about the different levels of security clearance are available on <a href="https://www.usajobs.gov/Help/faq/job-announcement/security-clearances/" title="USAJOBs Help and FAQs">USAJOBS Help and FAQ pages</a>.</p></dd><dt>What does promotion potential mean?</dt><dd><p>Promotion potential is the highest advancement level that a position can reach. Generally, once an employee in the <a href="https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/pay-leave/pay-systems/general-schedule/" title="General Schedule">General Schedule</a> reaches the highest promotion level in his/her position, they need to apply for positions that have higher promotion potential in order to receive further promotions.</p></dd><dt>What entry-level opportunities does CISA offer?</dt><dd><p>CISA offers entry-level positions based on prior work experience or education level. Learn more about our <a href="/students-recent-graduates-employment-opportunities" title="Programs for Students and Recent Graduates">programs tailored for students and recent graduates</a>. </p></dd><dt>What types of cyber certifications are required to seek employment at CISA?</dt><dd><p>Cyber certifications are <strong>not a requirement</strong> for employment at CISA. Once onboard, CISA invests in all its employees with training money that can be put towards a certification. This will be a discussion with your supervisor when you develop your performance plan and individual development plans.</p><p>However, our employees often find these certifications helpful to their work:</p><ul><li>CompTIA – Security+ ISC<sup>2</sup></li><li>Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)</li><li>EC-Council – Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)</li><li>ISACA – Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)</li><li>ISACA – Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)</li><li>PMI – Project Management Professional (PMP)</li></ul></dd><dt>I do not possess any cyber experience. Can I still apply?</dt><dd><p><strong>Yes, you can still apply to positions</strong> based on your level of education. CISA also has opportunities in many other career fields, such as human resources, security and risk analysis, chemical security, stakeholder engagement, supply chain management, critical infrastructure, telecommunications, business, finance, legal, communications, and privacy. Opportunities are located in the Washington D.C. metro area as well as within <a href="/about/regions" title="CISA Regional Areas">CISA’s regional areas</a>. Explore our <a href="/work-cisa" title="Mission areas and Career Opportunities">mission areas and career opportunities</a> now. </p></dd><dt>Is remote or hybrid work available?</dt><dd><p><strong>Yes</strong>, CISA is proud to offer flexible schedules and work opportunities. As a growing federal agency, remote and hybrid work is vital in keeping our workforce connected across the nation. Many positions are eligible for remote work and hybrid/telework opportunities, dependent on the duties of the individual position. </p></dd><dt>What will my work schedule be?</dt><dd><p>Your work schedule will be negotiated with your supervisor at the time of hire and/or during your first week onboard. Most CISA positions are full-time; many positions are eligible for flexible work schedules and/or remote work or telework opportunities. Work schedule information and available flexibilities are also listed in the job opportunity announcement. </p></dd><dt>What will happen during my first few days as a new employee with CISA?</dt><dd><p>You’ll attend a robust orientation that will help acclimate you to the organization and introduce you to benefits and other important employment information. You’ll also meet your sponsor (a current CISA employee who will familiarize you with your new office), receive security briefings, receive your credentials and IT equipment, and, finally, meet your supervisor and team. For most employees, the orientation and onboarding activities are completed virtually. CISA's onboarding team will be with you every step of the way!</p></dd></dl><div class="c-text-cta"><div class="l-constrain c-text-cta__inner"><div class="c-text-cta"><div class="l-constrain c-text-cta__inner"><div class="c-text-cta__content"><h2>Contact Us</h2><div class="c-text-cta__summary"><p>Still have a hiring related question? We're here to help! Send us an email at <a href="mailto:Careers@cisa.dhs.gov" title="CISA Careers email">Careers@cisa.dhs.gov</a> to access our team of recruiters who are happy to give you further guidance.</p><p>Stay in the know! Sign up to receive career news and updates directly to your email.</p></div><p><a class="c-button c-button--on-dark" href="/subscribe-updates-cisa" title="Subscribe">subscribe</a></p></div></div></div></div></div></div></div> </div> </div> </div> </article> </div> </main> <footer class="usa-footer usa-footer--slim" role="contentinfo"> <div class="usa-footer__return-to-top"> <div class="l-constrain"> <a href="#top">Return to top</a> </div> </div> <div class="usa-footer__upper"> <div class="l-constrain"> <ul class="c-menu c-menu--footer-main"> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/topics" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/7329">Topics</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/spotlight" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/7330">Spotlight</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/resources-tools" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/7331">Resources & Tools</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/news-events" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/7332">News & Events</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/careers" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/7323">Careers</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/about" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6944">About</a> </li> </ul> </div> </div> <div class="usa-footer__main"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="usa-footer__main-row"> <div class="usa-footer__brand"> <a class="c-site-name c-site-name--footer" href="/" rel="home" title="Go to the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency homepage"> <span class="c-site-name__text">Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency</span> </a> </div> <div class="usa-footer__contact"> <ul class="c-menu c-menu--social"> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/CISA" class="c-menu__link--facebook c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">Facebook</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://twitter.com/CISAgov" class="c-menu__link--twitter c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">Twitter</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/cybersecurity-and-infrastructure-security-agency" class="c-menu__link--linkedin c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">LinkedIn</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@cisagov" class="c-menu__link--youtube c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">YouTube</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cisagov" class="c-menu__link--instagram c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">Instagram</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/subscribe-updates-cisa" class="c-menu__link--rss c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">RSS</a> </li> </ul> <div class="usa-footer__contact-info"> <span>CISA Central</span> <a href="tel:1-844-Say-CISA">1-844-Say-CISA</a> <a href="mailto:SayCISA@cisa.dhs.gov">SayCISA@cisa.dhs.gov</a> </div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="usa-footer__lower"> <div class="l-constrain"> <div class="usa-footer__lower-row"> <div class="usa-footer__lower-left"> <div class="c-dhs-logo"> <div class="c-dhs-logo__seal">DHS Seal</div> <div class="c-dhs-logo__content"> <div class="c-dhs-logo__url">CISA.gov</div> <div class="c-dhs-logo__text">An official website of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security</div> </div> </div> <ul class="c-menu c-menu--footer"> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/about" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="About CISA" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/6944">About CISA</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.dhs.gov/performance-financial-reports" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="Budget and Performance" aria-current="false">Budget and Performance</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.dhs.gov" title="Department of Homeland Security" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">DHS.gov</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.dhs.gov/foia" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="FOIA Requests" aria-current="false">FOIA Requests</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/no-fear-act" title="No FEAR Act Reporting" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/21494">No FEAR Act</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.oig.dhs.gov/" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="Office of Inspector General" aria-current="false">Office of Inspector General</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/privacy-policy" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="Privacy Policy" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="node/16115">Privacy Policy</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USDHSCISA/subscriber/new?topic_id=USDHSCISA_138" title="Subscribe to Email Updates" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false">Subscribe</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="The White House" aria-current="false">The White House</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="https://www.usa.gov/" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" title="USA.gov" aria-current="false">USA.gov</a> </li> <li class="c-menu__item"> <a href="/forms/feedback" title="Website Feedback" class="c-menu__link js-top-level" aria-current="false" data-drupal-link-system-path="forms/feedback">Website Feedback</a> </li> </ul> </div> <div class="usa-footer__lower-right"> <iframe src="https://www.dhs.gov/ntas/" name="National Terrorism Advisory System" title="National Terrorism Advisory System" width="170" height="180" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" seamless border="0" ></iframe> </div> </div> </div> </div> </footer> </div> </div> <script src="/core/assets/vendor/jquery/jquery.min.js?v=3.7.1"></script> <script src="/core/assets/vendor/once/once.min.js?v=1.0.1"></script> <script src="/core/misc/drupal.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/misc/drupal.init.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/assets/vendor/tabbable/index.umd.min.js?v=6.2.0"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/ckeditor_accordion/js/accordion.frontend.min.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/extlink/js/extlink.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/misc/jquery.form.js?v=4.3.0"></script> <script src="/core/misc/progress.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/assets/vendor/loadjs/loadjs.min.js?v=4.3.0"></script> <script src="/core/misc/debounce.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/misc/announce.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/misc/message.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/core/misc/ajax.js?v=10.4.1"></script> <script src="/modules/contrib/google_tag/js/gtag.ajax.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/js/breadcrumb.es6.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/js/common.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/js/uswds-init.es6.js?ss1oyc"></script> <script src="/profiles/cisad8_gov/themes/custom/gesso/dist/js/uswds.es6.js?ss1oyc"></script> </body> </html>