Securing a position at the White House is an aspiration shared by numerous current and aspiring professionals. Acquiring knowledge on the process of obtaining a job at the White House can bring you closer to realizing your professional ambitions. Whether contributing in smaller or more significant capacities, you have the opportunity to effect change at the highest office.
This article aims to guide navigating the application process for White House positions through a reliable, step-by-step approach.
If you are interested in becoming part of the White House workforce, read on to discover more about how to get a job in the White House.
Table of contents
- About The White House
- How Hard Is It To Land A Job At The White House?
- How Do I Get A Job In The White House
- The White House Interview Questions
- What’s It Like To Work At The White House?
- What Are The Job Benefits Of Working In The White House?
- FAQs On How Do I Get A Job In The White House
- Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
About The White House
Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington DC, the White House is the official residence and primary workplace for the President of the United States and the first family. Since being finalized in 1800, over 40 first families have resided at the White House, including John and Jacqueline Kennedy, Bill and Hillary Clinton, and Michelle and Barack Obama.
The White House is where the presidential administration works, implementing policies and managing national affairs under the leadership of the president. The White House administration comprises the president, the vice president, the first lady, and the second gentleman.
How Hard Is It To Land A Job At The White House?
Securing a position at the White House, particularly a full-time role, poses a significant challenge. Anticipate a fiercely competitive application procedure, whether you’re aiming for an internship or applying to particular departments. Various appointment categories exist, but every role is immensely sought after due to the substantial enhancement it offers to your resume and professional background.
The application process for the White House scrutinizes your qualifications to assess your competency. Typically, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in the relevant field is a prerequisite for most White House positions, even those that are non-career-oriented.
READ ALSO: 10 High-paying Dirty Jobs
How Do I Get A Job In The White House
The White House application process is straightforward. You must fill out and submit an application form, complete an extensive list of questions, and pass background checks before qualifying for an interview. Only US citizens aged 18 years old and above are eligible to apply. Due to the number of applications, the process can take anywhere from three to four months.
Here’s a step-by-step outline of how to apply for a job at the White House:
1. Go through the job postings
The White House highlights a wide range of job openings on USA Jobs. You can also explore other job boards, including Glassdoor, LinkedIn, Indeed, and ZipRecruiter. If you are pursuing a political appointment, you should log in to the official White House website.
2. Fill out an application form
Those seeking presidential appointments must fill out an application form on the official website. You will need to provide your contact information, resume, and political affiliations. If you are applying through job boards, you will need to follow the steps laid out on the page.
3. Answer a range of personal questions
After filling out your form, you will proceed to a section of basic questions that gauge your professionalism, knowledge of government affairs, lifestyle, and online activities.
READ ALSO: How To Apply For A PPP Loan | Step-By-Step Procedure
4. Submit your application
After completing all application procedures, click “Submit” at the bottom of the page. Depending on the job opening, you may have to include essays or letters of recommendation.
5. Pass a background check
You must pass an FBI background check. This process checks you for legal woes, criminal history, or any activity that may taint your application. You will only advance to the interview stage if you pass the application process.
The White House Interview Questions
Here are a few questions to expect during the White House interview:
- Why do you want to work at the White House?
- What is your political affiliation and why?
- What was your previous job?
- Which skills make you a good candidate for the job?
- What is your opinion of the current administration?
What’s It Like To Work At The White House?
Employment at the White House alongside proficient individuals from diverse domains influences your professional life positively, opening up numerous career opportunities. Nevertheless, as a rapidly moving governmental entity, the White House necessitates readiness for the intense fluctuations in demands.
Here are three things to expect as White House staff:
Pressure to Perform
White House staff members need to display efficiency and motivation in their work, as the organization operates at a rapid pace, addressing a myriad of high-priority issues daily. Being accustomed to working under pressure, enduring extended work hours, and adapting to impromptu workflows is essential. Despite the demanding nature, most employee reviews on Glassdoor affirm that the substantial pressure is justified.
Compensation and Benefits
Employees at the White House are entitled to numerous perks and benefits for themselves and their families. This includes an impressive annual salary, healthcare plans, access to the Federal Employee Retirement System, Federal Managers Liability Insurance, paid vacation days, and life insurance. While the specific benefits vary depending on the position, there is a range of offerings available to White House staff members.
READ ALSO: Royalty Tax: What Is Royalty Income and How Is It Taxed?
Work Environment
According to Glassdoor reviews, 75 percent of current and former White House employees recommend working at the White House to a friend. Employees commend the work environment and express that despite the long hours, it offers rewarding experiences and opportunities.
What Are The Job Benefits Of Working In The White House?
Working at the White House comes with a range of job benefits that make it an attractive and prestigious employment opportunity. While the specifics may vary depending on the position, some common job benefits for White House employees include:
1. Health Insurance
As a federal employee, you will be eligible for the Federal Employee Health Benefits Program, which covers your health insurance. This can also include your spouse and children under 26 years old. The program features a wide variety of health plan choices.
2. Dental and Vision Insurance
White House employees can apply for the Federal Employee Dental Vision Insurance Plan. Depending on how much you can contribute annually, you can select a dental plan, a vision plan, or both. This program also features different plans that can cover your spouse and children under 22 years old.
SEE ALSO: 20 Best Home Insurance Companies | Best List
3. Long-Term Care Insurance
This insurance oversees long-term care where an employee can no longer perform daily tasks due to accidents, chronic illnesses, or old age. This cover goes hand in hand with the Federal Health Benefits Program. You can also apply for the Federal Manager’s Liability Insurance.
4. Retirement Planning
White House employees participate in the Federal Employee Retirement System. You will contribute 4.4 percent of your annual salary to prepare yourself for life after retirement. You can also take advantage of other retirement savings plans to increase your savings.
5. Life Insurance
Life Insurance policies are essential in securing your family’s future and ensuring you get a befitting send-off in the event of your passing. Federal employees are eligible to apply for the Federal Employee’s Group Life Insurance program. Depending on your flexibility, you can start saving as soon as you get hired.
FAQs On How Do I Get A Job In The White House
Yes, the White House offers internship programs. Information about internship opportunities and application processes can be found on the official White House website.
There is no specific age limit, but candidates typically need to meet the educational and experience requirements for the position they are applying for.
Qualifications vary depending on the position, but many roles require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Specific job listings will outline the educational and experience requirements.
The White House employs individuals in various roles, including policy advisors, communications professionals, administrative staff, and more. Job listings will provide details about specific positions.
Conclusion
All applicants must be U.S. citizens and are required to obtain and maintain a favorable security determination and undergo pre-employment drug testing.
References
- creditkarma.com – How to Land a Job at The White House in 2023
- money.howstuffworks.com – How Do I Get a Job in the White House?
We Also Recommend
