How Does the Military Spouse Federal Job Preference Work?

I'm curious about the benefits of the military spouse federal job preference. How does it help spouses get employed, and what are the steps to take advantage of this preference when applying for federal jobs?

The Military Spouse Federal Job Preference, also known as the Military Spouse Preference (MSP) Program, was established by the federal government to help military spouses secure employment within federal agencies. It works as a preferential hiring measure to enable greater access to federal employment opportunities.

Here's how it generally works:

1. Eligibility: Spouses of active duty military members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including the Coast Guard, are eligible. This includes spouses of service members who are 100% disabled due to a service-connected injury and widows/widowers of service members who died while on active duty, who have not remarried.

2. Registration: To begin, the military spouse needs to register for the program, which includes providing requisite documents such as a copy of the marriage certificate, orders showing the active duty member's permanent change of station (PCS), etc.

3. Job Search and Application: Once registered, the military spouse may then apply for available roles through the federal government's official job site, USAJobs. The MSP doesn't guarantee employment but provides preference in the hiring process. When applying, ensure to highlight that you are eligible for the MSP Program.

4. Referrals and Selection: When a federal agency fills a vacancy, they typically receive a list of eligible candidates. As a military spouse who qualifies for MSP, you would be placed towards the top of this list. However, ultimate selection still rests with the hiring agency.

5. Preference Limitations: The MSP Program can be used for appointment to positions in the competitive service (GS positions). However, it doesn't apply to internal agency actions such promotions, reassignments, etc. Also, you can only use the MSP due to PCS once per permanent duty station.

It's important to remain proactive throughout this process as, while the MSP Program offers a hiring preference, it does not ensure a job. The application should still be polished and tailored specifically for the position you're applying for. Also, continue using other resources and job-seeking strategies in combination with utilizing the MSP.

It's always a good idea to reach out to a military services support organization or an HR representative from the agency you're interested in for detailed and specific advice, based on your circumstances. They'll be able to guide you through the process based on their experience with the MSP Program.