What is the process to get a federal government job.

Question

Also some jobs ask if I have security clearance. What is this and how can I get it?

Answer 1

http://www.usajobs.com/

you can start here.  It's competetive though and usually require some level of upper level education and/or experience.  Vets usually flock to these jobs so you should know who you're competing with.

If you're a vet, you do get preference points but all things considered, still rely on education/exp.

Many times, the job you apply for will run the application for clearance if they are considering you.

Grabbed from a site that's down.  This is cached:

How do you get a security clearance?

There are three main phases to receiving a security clearance:

The first phase is the application process. This involves verification of U.S. citizenship, fingerprinting and completion of the Personnel Security Questionnaire (SF-86). For detailed application procedures, see Security Clearance Requirements.

The second phase involves the actual investigation of your background. Most of the background check is conducted by the Defense Security Service (DSS).

The final phase is the adjudication phase. The results from the investigative phase are reviewed. The information that has been gathered is evaluated based on thirteen factors determined by the Department of Defense (DoD). Some examples of areas they consider are; allegiance to the United States, criminal and personal conduct, and substance abuse or mental disorders. Clearance is granted or denied following this evaluation process.

Answer 2

Just apply for the job with the Civil Service.  If you need a security clearance they will check you out and give it to you after you get the job.

I had a secret clearance when I worked for the USAF, but I never had to do anything to get it--they just sent the FBI around and asked questions and decided I wasn't a Communist, n**i or terrorist.