Skip to main content

Job application process

Applying for a federal job can take some time and patience. It's a process that prioritizes both fairness to all applicants and getting the best qualified candidates.

What you will see

Please note that to ensure this process is followed, we can’t take applications directly. You must submit your application in one of the ways described on USAJobs.

Current openings

We post new job announcements on our website. You can always check back here for more.

USAJobs

We post new announcements on the USAJobs website. This is a central location for people interested in opportunities in public service.

See our tips for applying on USAJobs

Asking about your application

You can ask questions about your application or the process, through the “Agency Contact Info” provided in each job announcement. Be sure to provide the "Job Announcement Number" and the "Control Number."

Preparing a résumé to apply to a federal government position

It is important not to leave something out just because it seems less relevant to you. Federal hiring will always take into account the full breadth of your experience. If something is listed under “minimum qualifications required,” your application must demonstrate that you have experience relevant to that qualification. It is also important that you do not make assumptions about what qualifies. If the announcement says a particular type of experience is required, do not list a similar but different type of experience without explaining how it meets the qualification. If you have that exact experience, always state it.

You are welcome to say more than this, of course, and it can help later in the process. Once the process moves past the initial round of review, people will take a closer look at the patterns of your experience rather than just the broadest facts.

Federally recognized status and eligibility for a position

Sometimes very similar jobs will be posted simultaneously, with one of the primary differences being who is eligible to apply. This difference is based on the applicant’s employment history or other federally recognized status. For example, some jobs are limited to current and former federal employees only. In general, if you see two similar jobs that interest you, we recommend applying through the description that applies most closely to your experience and status. You are, however, welcome to apply to any vacancy at any time.

Federal ethics rules and CFPB ethics regulations

We hold ourselves to an exemplary standard of integrity in all that we do. Should you join us, you will be subject to federal government-wide ethics rules as well as the additional ethics regulations specific to Bureau employees.

CFPB ethics regulations will prohibit you and your spouse and minor children from holding financial interests in entities supervised by the CFPB, restrict your ability to work on matters involving certain of your creditors, and prevent you from seeking credit from a lender if you are working on a Bureau matter involving that lender. You may review the CFPB's ethics regulations here.

You can reach to our Ethics team with questions at EthicsHelp@consumerfinance.gov.

Equal employment opportunity

The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is an equal opportunity employer in compliance with federal law and seeks to create and maintain a vibrant, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We encourage all people to apply for opportunities with the CFPB. The CFPB does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, transgender status, gender identity or expression, gender non-conformity, or sex stereotyping of any kind), national origin, disability, age (40 and older), genetic information, parental status, political affiliation, marital status, uniformed status, membership in a labor organization or union activities, prior EEO (Equal Employment Opportunity) activity or whistleblower activity, or any other non-merit factor.

Current openings

We post new openings frequently. See them here.

Working at the CFPB

Help us continue to grow and develop our 21st century agency. The work you do will directly impact the lives of consumers.

Students and recent graduates

Find opportunities in public service for a new generation of leaders.

Follow us on LinkedIn

The CFPB is one of the most searched for agencies in the federal government. Connect with us to stay updated on the work we do and new opportunities.

Provide feedback

We take pride in our feedback-centered culture that helps us recruit great people. If you have comments, or questions, let us know.