Skip to main content

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I determine if I’m qualified for a CSE position?

CSE positions will have specific qualifications that are explained in detail in each vacancy announcement. Interested candidates should read the Qualifications section very carefully to make sure that they meet all the requirements for the position.

Will positions under this CSE hiring authority be based overseas?

No. At present, CSE positions will be based in Washington, D.C, although some positions may require travel for overseas work.

Are any part-time positions available under the CSE hiring authority?

No, all current CSE positions are full-time.

How should an application be submitted and what is the application process for CSE?

All applications must be submitted on USAJobs.gov. Applicants can visit USAID’s Careers page to find a list of open positions, resources to help prepare a federal application, and a link to the submission page on USAJobs. Please note that the preferred resume format is PDF, although other formats may be accepted on the site.

Do I have to submit other documents to apply for a CSE?

Yes, these positions have a minimum education requirement; therefore, unofficial transcripts are required at the point of application submission.

What are the application requirements for applicants who are eligible for non-competitive hiring authorities (i.e. Schedule A, Veteran Preference, NCE)?

To verify eligibility under the Schedule A Hiring Authority you must provide a Schedule A letter signed by a licensed medical professional or licensed vocational rehabilitation specialistLetters must be printed on medical professionals letterhead and must include a signature or it is invalid. Please refer to OPM’s sample Schedule A letter.

To verify eligibility for veterans hiring authorities, candidates must submit a copy of their latest Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty, DD-214 (copy indicating character of service) or other proof of service. If claiming disability preference, candidates must also submit the disability letter from the Department of Veterans Affairs or Armed Services and the Application for 10-Point Veteran Preference, Standard Form 15.

For additional resources on eligibility, please visit USAJOBs.

Please note that Non-Competitive Eligibility (NCE) does not automatically apply.

Are accommodations available for applicants during the hiring/interviewing process?

Yes! USAID is committed to equal employment opportunity; therefore, reasonable accommodations are available to applicants and employees with disabilities. If you need an accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the Reasonable Accommodation Division in USAID’s Office of Civil Rights (OCR) at reasonableaccommodations@usaid.gov. Reasonable accommodation decisions are made on a case-by-case basis. More information can be found on the Reasonable Accommodation Division website.

What are the pay scales and benefits for CSE positions?

CSE employees are paid on the General Schedule (GS) pay scale, which can be found here on OPM’s website, under “General Schedule (GS) & Locality Pay Tables”. A list of CSE benefits can be found on the Civil Service Excepted Benefits page.