Securing a position with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is a highly sought-after career path, offering stability, competitive benefits, and the chance to contribute to the nation's financial well-being. However, the federal hiring process, particularly for an agency as critical as the IRS, is known for its thoroughness and, consequently, its length. If you're wondering, "How long does it take to get hired by the IRS?" you're not alone! This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, providing insights into typical timelines and what you can do to optimize your journey.
The IRS Hiring Journey: A Marathon, Not a Sprint
Before we dive into the specifics, let's set a realistic expectation: getting hired by the IRS is generally not a quick process. While some federal positions can move faster, an IRS role often involves rigorous background checks and suitability determinations due to the sensitive nature of the work. You should anticipate a timeline that can range from a few months to over a year, depending on the position's complexity, the number of applicants, and the required security clearance. Patience, meticulous preparation, and proactive follow-up are your best allies.
Step 1: Are You Ready to Serve? Navigating USAJOBS and the Application
So, you've decided to pursue a career with the IRS! Fantastic choice! The very first step, and arguably one of the most critical, is navigating the vast landscape of federal job opportunities on USAJOBS.gov. This is the exclusive portal for all IRS job postings.
Sub-heading: Crafting Your Federal Resume
This isn't your average private-sector resume. Federal resumes are often much longer and more detailed.
- Keywords are King: The IRS, like other federal agencies, uses automated systems to screen applications for keywords. Thoroughly read the job announcement and incorporate as many relevant keywords from the "Duties" and "Qualifications" sections as possible into your resume.
- Quantify Your Achievements: Don't just list responsibilities; describe your accomplishments using numbers and data. For example, instead of "Managed tax forms," write "Managed the processing of over 500 tax forms per week, reducing errors by 15%."
- Address All Qualifications: Ensure your resume clearly demonstrates that you meet all the basic qualifications listed, including education, experience, and specialized skills. If the announcement asks for a specific number of years of experience in a certain area, be sure to highlight that.
- Tailor Each Application: While it's tempting to use a generic federal resume, it's highly recommended to tailor your resume for each specific IRS job you apply for. This significantly increases your chances of getting past the initial screening.
Sub-heading: The Online Application Form
Beyond the resume, you'll need to complete the online application form on USAJOBS. This often includes answering a series of occupational questionnaires. Be honest and accurate in your responses. These questions help the hiring agency assess your knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the position.
Typical Timeline for Step 1: This phase is entirely dependent on you. Finding the right job, tailoring your resume, and completing the application can take several hours to a few days per application.
Step 2: The Waiting Game – Application Review and Referral
Once you hit "submit," the waiting game begins. Your application will go through a multi-stage review process.
Sub-heading: Initial HR Screening
Human Resources (HR) specialists will first review applications to ensure they meet the basic qualifications outlined in the job announcement. They use a checklist to ensure applicants have the necessary skills and education. Applications that don't meet these minimum requirements are typically screened out here.
Sub-heading: Qualification Ranking and Referral
If you pass the initial HR screening, your application will then be ranked based on how well you meet the requirements for the job. The most qualified candidates are then "referred" to the hiring manager. You'll usually receive an email notification from USAJOBS when your application status changes to "Referred."
Typical Timeline for Step 2: This phase can vary significantly. It can take anywhere from 2-8 weeks, or even longer for highly competitive positions, for HR to complete their review and refer candidates.
Step 3: The Interview – Making Your Case
If you're among the top candidates, you'll be invited for an interview. The format and style of the interview can vary depending on the specific IRS role.
Sub-heading: Preparing for Your IRS Interview
- Research the Role and the IRS: Understand the specific duties of the position you applied for and familiarize yourself with the IRS's mission, values, and recent initiatives.
- Behavioral Interview Questions: Federal interviews often use behavioral questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer."). Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experiences using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).
- Technical Questions: For specialized roles (e.g., IT, accounting), expect technical questions designed to assess your specific skills and knowledge.
- Ask Thoughtful Questions: At the end of the interview, be prepared to ask insightful questions about the team, the role, or the IRS culture. This shows your engagement and genuine interest.
Typical Timeline for Step 3: Receiving an interview invitation can take anywhere from 4-12 weeks after referral. The interview itself is typically a one-time event, but follow-up interviews are possible.
Step 4: The Conditional Job Offer – A Glimmer of Hope
Congratulations! If you've successfully navigated the interview stage, you may receive a Conditional Job Offer (CJO). This is a significant milestone, but it's crucial to understand that it's conditional upon passing subsequent checks. The CJO will outline the position details, tentative start date, and salary.
Typical Timeline for Step 4: A CJO can be extended anywhere from 2-8 weeks after the interview.
Step 5: Background Checks and Suitability Determinations – The Deep Dive
This is often the longest and most scrutinized phase of the IRS hiring process. Due to the sensitive nature of accessing taxpayer information, the IRS conducts thorough background investigations to determine your suitability for federal employment.
Sub-heading: e-QIP and Fingerprinting
You will be required to complete the e-QIP (Electronic Questionnaires for Investigations Processing). This is a detailed online form where you provide extensive personal information, including your employment history, residences, education, financial history, and any contacts with foreign nationals. Be completely honest and accurate when filling this out, as discrepancies can lead to delays or disqualification. You will also undergo fingerprinting for a criminal history check.
Sub-heading: The Background Investigation
The depth of the background investigation depends on the "risk level" of the position. IRS positions often require a Moderate Risk Background Investigation (MBI) or higher. This involves:
- Credit Checks: To assess financial responsibility.
- Reference Checks: Verifying employment, education, and character with your listed references and possibly others.
- Criminal History Check: Nationwide and local law enforcement checks.
- Verification of Information: Confirming all details provided in your e-QIP.
Key factors that can cause delays in this stage include: complex financial histories, extensive international travel, numerous past addresses, or inconsistencies in your application.
Typical Timeline for Step 5: This phase is highly variable, but generally takes 2-6 months, and sometimes longer (up to a year or more for higher clearances or complex cases). Some sources indicate suitability checks can take 2-3 weeks, but the full background investigation often extends far beyond that.
Step 6: The Firm Job Offer (FJO) – The Finish Line!
Once all background checks and suitability determinations are complete and favorable, you will receive a Firm Job Offer (FJO). This is the official offer, providing the confirmed start date (Entry-on-Duty or EOD), final salary, and duty station. At this point, you can confidently give notice to your current employer.
Typical Timeline for Step 6: Receiving an FJO typically follows the completion of the background investigation, so it can be anywhere from 2 weeks to a month after you hear that your background check has cleared.
Step 7: Onboarding – Your First Day with the IRS
Congratulations, you've made it! Your first day will involve administrative tasks, orientation, and getting acquainted with your new team and responsibilities.
Typical Timeline for Step 7: Your onboarding experience will begin on your designated Entry-on-Duty (EOD) date.
Summary of Timelines (Approximate)
Please remember these are general estimates. Individual experiences may vary significantly.
10 Related FAQ Questions and Quick Answers
How to check the status of my IRS job application?
You can check your application status by signing into your USAJOBS profile and going to your Applications. Click "Track this application" for the most up-to-date status from the hiring agency.
How to make my resume stand out for an IRS job?
Tailor your resume to each specific job announcement by incorporating keywords from the duties and qualifications, quantifying your accomplishments, and ensuring you clearly address all stated requirements.
How to prepare for an IRS interview?
Research the IRS mission and the specific job duties, prepare for behavioral questions using the STAR method, and be ready to ask thoughtful questions about the role and team.
How to handle the e-QIP process efficiently?
Gather all necessary personal information (addresses, employment history, contacts, financial records) before you start the e-QIP, and be completely honest and thorough in your responses.
How to speed up the IRS background check?
While you can't directly speed it up, providing accurate and complete information in your e-QIP, responding promptly to any requests for additional information, and ensuring your references are prepared can help prevent delays.
How to know if I need a security clearance for an IRS job?
The job announcement will specify the required security level (e.g., Public Trust, Moderate Risk, Secret). Most IRS positions involve a background investigation for suitability, often at a Moderate Risk level due to access to sensitive taxpayer data.
How to negotiate salary with the IRS?
While possible, salary negotiation for federal positions is often limited by strict guidelines and pay scales (GS grades). It's less common to successfully negotiate a higher starting salary for entry-level positions within the IRS due to the competitive nature.
How to reapply if my IRS application was unsuccessful?
Analyze why your previous application might not have been successful (e.g., resume not tailored, missed qualifications), improve your resume and application strategy, and keep looking for new openings on USAJOBS that align with your skills.
How to find out more about specific IRS job roles?
Beyond the job announcement, you can research the specific job series (e.g., 0510 Accountant, 1811 Criminal Investigator) on OPM.gov for detailed descriptions of duties and qualifications for federal positions.
How to maintain patience during the lengthy IRS hiring process?
Understand that the federal hiring process is inherently slow. Continue with your current job or job search, avoid checking your application status daily, and focus on being prepared for each stage as it arises.
