Applying for a federal government position, particularly with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), might seem like a daunting task, especially when it comes to navigating the USAJOBS portal. Many applicants assume a comprehensive resume is mandatory. However, for certain roles within the TSA, specifically Transportation Security Officer (TSO) and Security Support Assistant (SSA) positions, a resume is not required during the initial application phase on USAJOBS. This guide will provide you with clear, step-by-step instructions on how to successfully apply for these Transportation Security Administration (TSA) positions on USAJOBS without submitting a traditional resume.
For TSO and SSA roles, the application process on USAJOBS is streamlined to focus on your eligibility and qualifications through a series of questionnaires. Bypassing the resume section is perfectly acceptable and officially supported for these specific Transportation Security Administration (TSA) positions. Here’s how to navigate the application process effectively:
Step-by-Step Guide to Skip the Resume on USAJOBS for TSA Applications:
Step 1: Access the Resume Page and Select “Build Resume”
After you’ve created your USAJOBS profile and logged in through login.gov, and you’ve navigated to the “Select Resume” page within the application for a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) position (TSO or SSA), you’ll see options to upload or build a resume. To proceed without a resume, you need to choose the “Build Resume” option. Don’t worry, we won’t actually be building a traditional resume.
Step 2: Enter Placeholder Text in the Resume Builder
The Resume Builder interface will appear, prompting you to name your resume. In the “Resume Name Field,” simply enter placeholder text. Something like “TSO application,” “SSA Application,” or even “Blank” will suffice. After entering the placeholder text, click “Next” to move forward.
Step 3: Indicate No Work Experience or Education
You will now be directed to sections for “Work Experience” and “Education.” Under “Add Work Experience,” locate and select the checkbox next to “I do not wish to provide work experience.” Click “Next.” Repeat this process for the “Education” section by selecting “I do not wish to provide education” and clicking “Next.” Finally, check the box next to “References available upon request” and click “Finish.” This effectively completes the ‘resume’ section without requiring any actual resume content.
Step 4: Acknowledge and Save on the Review Package Screen
Once you reach the “Review Package” screen, carefully look for a checkbox that states, “I acknowledge that I have reviewed my resume and document(s).” Tick this checkbox to confirm, even though you’ve essentially created a blank resume. Then, click “Save and Continue” to proceed with the rest of the application.
Step 5: Complete the Remaining Application Sections
With the resume hurdle cleared, continue to complete the remaining sections of the USAJOBS application. This includes providing:
- Contact Information: Ensure your contact details are accurate and up-to-date.
- Demographic Details and Personal Information: Fill out the required demographic and personal information sections truthfully and completely.
- Eligibility Questionnaire: This is a critical part of your application. Pay close attention to all questions, especially questions 15-18, as these are directly relevant to the TSO role and your eligibility for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) positions. Question 18 specifically concerns Selective Service registration verification, which is a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policy requirement for male applicants born after December 31, 1959. Questions 19-54 relate to felony convictions within the last 10 years, which is also relevant to Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security clearance standards.
Important Reminders for Your TSA Application:
- Review Thoroughly: Before submitting your application, meticulously review all the information you have provided to ensure accuracy and completeness.
- Upload Required Documents: While a resume isn’t mandatory for TSO/SSA, ensure you upload any other documents specifically requested in the job announcement.
- Veterans Preference: If you are a veteran, remember to upload your DD-214 form to claim veterans’ preference, which provides special consideration during the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) hiring process.
By following these steps, you can confidently apply for Transportation Security Administration (TSA) TSO and SSA positions on USAJOBS without a resume, focusing on accurately completing the questionnaires and providing all other necessary information. Candidates who meet the minimum eligibility criteria will then proceed to the subsequent stages of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) recruitment process.
