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FSJO Frequently Asked Questions
About the System
Q1: How does FoodSafetyJobs Online work?
A1: FoodSafetyJobs Online (FSJO) automates the Agency’s hiring process. The Human Resources (HR) office uses the Internet to post job vacancies directly at
http://www.foodsafetyjobs.gov. Interested applicants may review vacancy announcements and apply online by entering a résumé and answering questions about their background and qualifications. The system automatically screens, rates and ranks applicants based on their answers. An HR specialist reviews the list, certifies the best-qualified candidates, and forwards the certificate to the selecting official. Notifications are e-mailed to applicants.
Q2: What does it mean to apply online?
A2: The applicant registers, enters a résumé, and answers questions in the vacancy announcement using the Internet. The system establishes a user account, and assigns a user ID and a password that the applicant may change. Applicants may access the system anytime wherever Internet access is available. The applicant’s personal information and résumé are stored in the system and may be updated at any time.
Q3: Is the system secure?
A3: Yes. FSJO runs on an encrypted, secure database. FSIS owns the data, and only certain HR specialists have access to personal data. (EXAMPLE: A social security number (SSN) and date of birth must be entered as part of the initial registration process. Only personnel directly involved in hiring process may access this information. Individual data on race, gender, national origin, and disability status are not accessible to anyone. See Q&A 27.) Applicants must enter a password to access account information, and should not share the password with anyone. For further information, go to
http://www.foodsafetyjobs.gov and click on the “Security” button.
Q4: I am uncomfortable using my SSN to establish an account in the system. Is
there any way I can apply online without my SSN?
A4: No. The system will not allow users to apply without an SSN. The SSN is
one of the few reliable means that HR can use to distinguish between applicants.
Many applicants have the same name, and may even have the same birth date. If someone attempts to open a new account with an applicant's SSN, the system
administrator will be alerted.
Q5: Is it possible to have multiple identities or more than one e-mail address when using the system?
A5: No. Applicants are identified in the system by the SSN, user ID number, and the password entered during the registration process. FSJO will not allow an applicant to create more than one account using the same e-mail address or SSN. Electronic communications to applicants can only be sent to one e-mail address.
Q6: What if I want to apply online, but don’t have a computer at home? Can I use my office computer to access FSJO?
A6: Whether or not you can use your office computer to apply for jobs depends on your employer’s or agency’s policy. FSIS employees may use computers at work to register and apply for vacancies, but work assignments and official duties have priority. (NOTE: FSIS employees are not entitled to overtime, compensatory time, or credit hours under maxiflex for the purpose of applying for positions.)
Most public libraries, college placement offices, State and municipal employment offices, and community centers have computers and Internet access for patrons at no charge.
Q7: What if I have a computer at home with Internet access, but don’t have an e-mail account?
A7: Applicants must provide an e-mail address to register in FSJO. Some Internet service providers offer free e-mail accounts, such as
http://www.hotmail.com, http://www.mail.lycos.com, or
http://www.mail.yahoo.com. Applicants may visit one of these web sites to register for a free e-mail account.
FSIS employees who use their Outlook e-mail account at work must use the Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP) e-mail address. (To find the SMTP address in Outlook, click on “Tools”, then “Address Book.” Locate and double-click own name, then select the “E-mail Addresses” tab.)
The designated e-mail address will be used to contact applicants about the status of applications. In some cases, additional information may be requested, which applicants must submit to the HR office within a specified time period (typically
two (2) business days). Be sure to use a frequently monitored e-mail account to allow enough time to provide supplemental information that may be requested.
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