Who is aware of the Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans?

SSG Michael Johnston — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 10:39:47 -0500

I consider myself to be well informed, and proactive in seeking professional knowledge. I was unaware of how simple it can be for the Federal government to hire Veterans. I understand that my experience will differ from others, and am happy to chat with anyone offline. In the DC area, I've encountered a large number who did not know of this opportunity.

http://www.fedshirevets.gov/job/shav/

Feds Hire Vets - Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans

Special Hiring Authorities for Veterans are just that…designed for veterans. Knowing about these authorities and identifying your eligibility will enhance your job search. These special authorities represent a few of many appointing authorities that agencies can use entirely at their discretion. Veterans are not entitled to appointment under any of these authorities. Check the vacancy announcements, which should clearly state "Who May Apply."...

Response by SSG Audwin Scott made Feb 3 at 2016 10:47 AM

SSG Audwin Scott — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 10:47:12 -0500

Interesting ,first time hearing about this.

Response by SPC Joshua Heath made Feb 3 at 2016 10:49 AM

SPC Joshua Heath — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 10:49:05 -0500

This is excellent knowledge, that being said the process is still just as tough for someone that qualifies for these to get hired. I've probably dropped 100 or so apps on USAJOBS and am still working in the private sector.

Response by MAJ Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2016 10:56 AM

MAJ Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 10:56:50 -0500

I've found many managers and HR personnel who are unaware of VRA and VEOA opportunities so please work your network so HR personnel will consider using these to hire you.

Response by LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow made Feb 3 at 2016 10:59 AM

LCDR Rabbah Rona Matlow — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 10:59:32 -0500

After reading through the special hiring authorities, I talked to the folks in the VA National Chaplain's center. They say they have no authority to create jobs, even though that is how these authorities read.

In the end, it seems that these are smoke and mirrors...

Response by PO1 John Miller made Feb 3 at 2016 1:57 PM

PO1 John Miller — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 13:57:35 -0500

I am aware of this program. I have been out for just over 3 years, but I do have a disability rating and campaign medals so I do qualify. With that said, I have claimed it for every federal job I've applied for on USA Jobs, only to be turned down.

So my personal opinion is that this program exists solely to make it appear as if hiring authorities are willing to hire vets but in actuality are holding the jobs for their friends.

Response by PO2 Private RallyPoint Member made Feb 3 at 2016 2:16 PM

PO2 Private RallyPoint Member — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 14:16:43 -0500

I'm quick to throw Veteran Preference on a job application that asks lol. So stuff like I like to keep reading. Excellent knowledge.

Response by SPC Paul Jennings, J.D. made Feb 3 at 2016 4:19 PM

SPC Paul Jennings, J.D. — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 16:19:44 -0500

It is important to remember that these hiring authorities have many restrictions. For example, 30% disabled or VEOA hiring status only gives you veterans preference if the job is advertised as open to all U.S. citizens, in most cases. The majority of jobs that are open to status candidates apply veterans preference by allowing you to apply to the job. They do not, in this instance have to give consideration to the veterans before others and are free to hire whoever they want off the eligibility list.

Schedule A and other non-competitive appointment authorities are just a hodgepodge. A lot of power is given to the agencies, but it's confusing and often poorly implemented.

Response by SGM Earl Richburg made Feb 3 at 2016 5:40 PM

SGM Earl Richburg — Wed, 03 Feb 2016 17:40:59 -0500

I am glad that they have this program, but have found that it did not work for me. I applied for numerous positions that I actually performed while on active-duty and was told I was not qualified. This is after claiming and qualifying for Special Hiring Authority. My resume, intro letter, everything else good. It may be a DC thing.