Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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®Introduction
The Department of Labor Online Opportunities Recruitment System (DOORS) is a web-based e-Recruitment system that provides both Department of Labor (DOL) employees and outside job seekers the opportunity to apply for DOL specific jobs via the Internet. From an internal perspective, the Human Resources (HR) Division uses DOORS to help qualify, rate and rank job applicants producing quality candidates in a timely manner.
Q2: What happens when I am in the DOORS system?
Q4: What if I don't have a computer?
Q5: What if I don't have an e-mail account?
Q6: What if I need help applying online?
Q7: When exactly do jobs close in DOORS?
Q8: Will DOL accept paper applications?
Q9: Can DOL employees use their computers at work to access/apply for jobs on DOORS?
Q10: What if someone submits false information?
Q11: How do DOL Agencies post dual announcements (DEU and merit staffing) under the DOORS system?
Q12: What are question-based crediting plans?
Q13: What is the difference between competency-based questions and KSAs?
Applicant/Employee Information
Q14: How do I apply to a DOL job via the USAJOBS website?
Q16: Should an applicant retain a copy of their application once complete?
Q17: If you are halfway through your application, will DOORS save your input?
Q20: What if I want to submit additional documents?
Q21: As an applicant, can I apply from home?
Q22: How is my application rated?
Q24: How will my experience, education and the responses to my questions be verified?
Q26: How is the confidentially of my Race and National Origin data protected?
Q29: How do I apply for a Senior Executive Service (SES) position?
Resume Related Questions
Q30: Can I create a resume online?
Q31: Do we need keywords in the resume in order to be more visible?
Q32: I already have a resume prepared. Can I upload it into the USAJOBS system as an attachment?
Q33: What happens if I don't submit a resume with my personal information when applying for a job?
Q35: Should I include my Social Security Number (SSN) on my resume?
USAJOBS Related Questions
Q37: Do I have to use USAJOBS to apply for a Department of Labor job?
Q38: Do I have to use USAJOBS to search for Department of Labor vacancy announcements?
Q39: How do I search by GS Grade Level?
Q40: Can the Search Agent feature on the USAJOBS site search for all or multiple locations?
Q41: Is it possible to have multiple identities in USAJOBS or DOORS?
Submitting Supplemental Documentation (ex. College Transcripts and Veteran's Preference documentation
Q44: What steps do I take to submit my supplemental documents?
Q45: How come I only got one confirmation when I faxed 2 separate documents?
DOL Manager/Selecting Official and Subject Matter Expert Questions
Q47: What is the benefit of using the DOORS system?
Q48: What part of the process does DOORS automate for the manager/selecting official?
Q49: What is my role as a Selecting Official and/or Subject Matter Expert (SME)?
Q50: Who is responsible for generating the certificate of eligibles under the DOORS system?
Q51: What kinds of questions are stored in DOORS?
Q52: Can new questions be added into DOORS?
General Information
A: The Department of Labor's (DOL) e-Recruit System, called "DOORS" (DOL Online Opportunities Recruitment System), is the service delivery mechanism that automates the federal hiring process. It is fully integrated with the Federal government's USAJOBS (Recruitment One-Stop (ROS)) System. DOORS is used by DOL to build and post vacancies directly to the USAJOBS website and to receive on-line applications from job applicants. After the vacancy closes the HR office uses the system to help rate, rank and certify candidates. Top-talent is quickly identified and can be forwarded to the selecting official.
Q2: What happens when I am in the DOORS system?
A: In DOORS, you will answer vacancy specific questions necessary to evaluate your qualifications for the specific job to which you are applying. When completed, the information you provided for both USAJOBS and DOORS will become your application. After the vacancy closes, the Human Resource Specialist uses DOORS to identify those candidates with the related experience to refer to the hiring agency.
A: Yes. DOORS runs on a private secure database, and DOL is the sole owner of the data. The system meets DOL's stringent security requirements.
Q4: What if I don't have a computer?
A: Most career resource centers, unemployment offices, public libraries, college placement centers and job search agencies have computers and Internet access for their patrons to use. If applying online poses a hardship to you, please call the HR Specialist at least two (2) business days before the closing date of the announcement to request assistance.
Q5: What if I don't have an e-mail account?
A: There are several Internet Service Providers that offer free email accounts. You can access one of these providers to register for a free email account. For assistance, contact the Point of Contact noted on the vacancy announcement.
Q6: What if I need help applying online?
A: For assistance in applying for a DOL vacancy, you may review the Job Application guide at http://www.dol.gov/oasam/doljobs/apply/apply-overview.htm or contact the Point of Contact noted on the vacancy announcement.
Q7: When exactly do jobs close in DOORS?
A: Positions close at 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the closing date of the vacancy announcement.
Q8: Will DOL accept paper applications?
A: DOL strongly encourages the electronic filing of applications. Only the Human Resource Officer (HRO) may authorize the use of the alternative paper filing method on a case-by-case basis. If the alternative paper filing method is allowed, the applicant is required to respond to the same questions as applicants applying online and to submit a signed copy of their answers, all required supplemental documentation, and required applicant information by the timeframe specified on the announcement.
Q9: Can DOL employees use their computers at work to access/apply for jobs on DOORS?
A: Yes, DOL employees can use their work e-mail as the primary contact in USAJOBS. However, employees should refer to LaborNet regarding computer usage for additional information.
Q10: What if someone submits false information?
A: Falsifying or answering questions to mislead the system's automated process is no different than providing false or misleading information on your application under the old process. Applicants are reminded that this is a federal job application system. Providing false information, creating fake ID's or Social Security Numbers, or failing to answer all questions truthfully and completely may be grounds for the refusal of employment, disbarment from Federal Service, and/or for dismissal after being hired. Falsifying a Federal job application, attempting to violate the privacy of others, or attempting to compromise this system is punishable by fine or imprisonment (U.S. Code, Title 18, section 1001).
Q11: How do DOL Agencies post dual announcements (DEU and merit staffing) under the DOORS system?
A: Multiple announcements are typically posted for positions advertised for merit and non-status positions. These announcements will have different vacancy numbers, but in order to be considered for both status and non-status, you must apply to both vacancies.
Q12: What are question-based crediting plans?
A: Previously, candidates were primarily evaluated based on their knowledge, skills and abilities. The competency question-based criteria provides an automated means for evaluating candidates early in the application process and reducing the lag-time associated with the use of panels.
Q13: What is the difference between competency-based questions and KSAs?
A: Competency- based questions are used to screen applicants on specific knowledge relevant to the vacancy posting. While applying online in DOORS, you will encounter a variety of question formats such as Multiple Choice, True/False, Multiple Answer/Multiple Choice, and Short and Long Narrative explanations. KSAs are more narrative in nature and allow a free format for applicants to explain their expertise based upon each competency specific to the vacancy. DOL only uses competency-based questions.
Applicant/Employee Information
Q14: How do I apply to a DOL job via the USAJOBS website?
A: For instructions on applying to a DOL job, please refer to the following link http://www.dol.gov/oasam/doljobs/apply/apply-overview.htm You must be a registered user of USAJOBS before you can apply for DOL jobs. Please review the procedures for logging into USAJOBS. Instructions are provided on the USAJOBS web site for your assistance http://www.usajobs.gov/ResourceCenter/Index/Interactive/Tutorial#icc.
Q15: Is there any way I can see which positions I have applied for or find out the status of these vacancies?
A: There are four methods for tracking your applications. First, you can print the application confirmation screen from USAJOBS when you complete the application process. Second, you can request to receive a copy of your responses to the application questions when you finish applying for jobs in DOORS. Third and most recommended, you can check individual application information by logging into your USAJOBS account and clicking the "Application Status" link. Last, you may request assistance from the point of contact noted on the vacancy announcement. Be sure to have the vacancy announcement number and title of the position available.
Q16: Should an applicant retain a copy of their application once complete?
A: Yes, it is a good idea for applicants to retain all copies of the application process for their records including the job announcement number, resume, application confirmation page and email of faxed confirmation of supplemental documentation (if applicable).
Q17: If you are halfway through your application, will DOORS save your input?
A: Yes, your responses are automatically saved as you progress through each page of the application. When you select "Next" or "Previous" at the bottom of the screen, your progress up to your current point will be saved. However, if you are midway through a page and neglect to answer required questions, you will not be able to successfully save the data on the current page by selecting "Next" or "Previous" because an error will occur. To complete the application from where you left off, you have log into your account, and click on "Application Status" and click on the vacancy whose application you are trying to resume. DOORS will display any previously saved information.
Q18: My application status says Application Status Not Available, but I completed my application already.
A: The status changes to "Application Status Not Available" when you view your application and exit without going to the end of the application. If you are updating your application, make sure you go to the end of the application process (this entails clicking a "Finish" button to submit your changes). If you do not do this, you will not have additional options to review vacancy and application status.
Q19: Will applicants be able to describe or add detailed information to supplement responses to DOORS questions?
A: You can edit your resume to include supporting supplemental information that you would like the hiring managers to consider for the specific vacancy. It is essential that your resume provide sufficient information to substantiate your responses in the self-assessment vacancy questions to accurately reflect the level of competency that is indicated by the content of your resume. If selected for an interview, you may bring additional documents such as publications to support your application.
Q20: What if I want to submit additional documents?
A: You must submit the required documentation as specified within the vacancy announcement. Your application will not be considered if the required supporting documentation is not submitted or is not submitted in accordance with the time frames indicated in the announcement. You may provide additional documentation to the selecting official(s) during the interview process.
Q21: As an applicant, can I apply from home?
A: Yes. As an applicant, you can apply from any location. Most internal jobs are posted on www.USAJOBS.gov, but to view ALL public, status and internal DOL vacancies from offsite (i.e. a non-DOL computer), you must access the following URL address: http://www.doors.dol.gov.
Q22: How is my application rated?
A: For most jobs, the responses you provide to the questions are the basis for the rating calculated by DOORS or by a panel. The questions are determined by the selecting official, Subject Matter Expert and/or HR Specialist. A Human Resources Specialist will conduct a review of the application package for all applicants who make the best-qualified list and, if necessary, may request additional information from you to verify status.
Q23: Since DOORS will rate me according to my self-assessment and response to the questions, what prevents me from selecting those choices which give me the highest scores?
A: Nothing will prevent you from doing this. However, falsifying or answering questions to mislead the system's automated process is no different than providing false or misleading information on your application. Also, please note that failing to answer all questions truthfully and completely may be grounds for the refusal of employment, disbarment from Federal Service, and/or dismissal after being hired. Falsifying a Federal job application, attempting to violate the privacy of others, or attempting to compromise this system is punishable by fine and/or imprisonment (U.S. Code, Title 18, section 1001).
Q24: How will my experience, education and the responses to my questions be verified?
A: The resume, as well as the interview process, will be used to address questionable situations or issues. A review of the resume will be conducted for all applicants who make the best-qualified list.
Q25: I am uncomfortable using my Social Security Number (SSN) to establish my account in the system. Is there any way I can apply for a position online without my SSN?
A: No. Your Social Security Number (SSN) is required in order to apply for a DOL job. Only HR Staffing specialists and Selecting officials will view your application information. Also note that DOORS runs on a private secure database, and DOL is the sole owner of the data. The system meets DOL's stringent security requirements.
Q26: How is the confidentially of my Race and National Origin data protected?
A: Applicants have the option to voluntarily and confidentially enter demographic information when initially registering in DOORS. To ensure the candidate's anonymity, the data is immediately encrypted and cannot be tied to a specific candidate.
Q27: I recently learned that a job was advertised and has now closed for which I would like to apply. Are there any extenuating circumstances to grant extensions?
A: As a general rule, all applications and supplemental information must be received by 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the closing date of the vacancy announcement. If a situation occurs for which you believe an extension is warranted (ex: justified hardship), please contact the servicing Human Resources Specialist who can check to see on a case-by-case basis if an exception may be granted.
Q28: I wish to be considered for both the Merit Staffing (current or former Federal service) and Delegated Examining (general public) vacancy announcements. Since only one application can be accepted in DOL's e-Recruit System (DOORS), how do I indicate my preference to apply both ways?
A: In cases where a vacancy announcement is open to internal (Merit Staffing) and external (Delegated Examining) applicants, a vacancy announcement will typically be posted for each category. You must apply to each vacancy announcement to receive consideration.
Q29: How do I apply for a Senior Executive Service (SES) position?
A: SES vacancy announcements will be posted on USAJOBS, and the application process is the same as for non-SES positions. You are provided SES specific search capability at USAJOBS and on all DOL websites. Specific application requirements and required documentation will be identified in the vacancy announcement.
Resume Related Questions
Q30: Can I create a resume online?
A: Yes. Once you have registered at USAJOBS, you will be able to create a Federal resume. In fact, you have the capability of creating and storing up to five resumes. Once created, you can update your resume(s) as necessary. You can also upload your own resume and store up to two uploaded resumes. When you apply for a particular vacancy, you will be asked to select a resume to submit as part of your application. If you apply for another vacancy, you may wish to update your resume at that time to correspond more closely with the new vacancy announcement.
Q31: Do we need keywords in the resume in order to be more visible?
A: No, keywords are not necessary for greater visibility. Resumes are only one part of the application. Responses to the vacancy specific questions will determine an applicant's eligibility. It is best to provide thorough and accurate answers to these questions.
Q32: I already have a resume prepared. Can I upload it into the USAJOBS system as an attachment?
A: Yes, resumes can be uploaded into USAJobs and can store up to 2 uploaded resumes. It is essential that your resume provide sufficient information to substantiate your responses in the self-assessment vacancy questions. If your responses are not adequately substantiated by your resume, the HRO will amend your responses to more accurately reflect the level of competency that is indicated by the content of your resume. Refer to the Sample Resume for details. DOL's preferred resumes are resumes created through the resume builder in USAJOBS. You can store up to 5 documents into USAJOBS, which can further be downloaded to your DOORS application.
Q33: What happens if I don't submit a resume with my personal information when applying for a job?
A: You will be asked to submit a resume when applying online for a Department of Labor vacancy. If you do not select a resume, you will not be able to move forward in the application process. If your resume is not fully completed (for ex. Duties for a Work Experience are not fully documented) and attached to the announcement prior to 11:59 pm Eastern Time on the closing date of the vacancy announcement, the HR Specialist may determine that your resume does not support your application and you may not be considered for the position..
Q34: If your resume is designated as "Searchable," does that grant unlimited access to recruiters to view it?
A: No, your resume is only searchable by HR Specialists. Registering with USAJOBS allows applicants to expand their marketability. When a resume is designated as searchable, DOL HR specialists and other federal department HR specialists can identify candidates with requisite skills needed for their respective position and notify them of potential vacancy matches.
Q35: Should I include my Social Security Number (SSN) on my resume?
A: No, Do not include the following types of information in your profile or resume: classified information as defined in Executive Order 13526 (dated December 29, 2009); Social Security Number (SSN); or other personal or sensitive information you do not wish to be made visible to recruiters.
USAJOBS Related Questions
A: USAJOBS is the official job site of the Federal government and the Recruitment One-Stop (ROS) resource where you can search for jobs, create and edit resumes, and access information regarding your individual job search, e.g., the status of your applications. You may obtain more specific information on the www.USAJOBS.gov website.
Q37: Do I have to use USAJOBS to apply for a Department of Labor job?
A: Yes. You will need a USAJOBs account to apply for Department of Labor job announcements.
Q38: Do I have to use USAJOBS to search for Department of Labor vacancy announcements?
A: In addition to USAJOBS.gov, you may begin a search for a Department of Labor job opening at http://www.doors.dol.gov.
Q39: How do I search by GS Grade Level?
A: The USAJOBS system provides a salary and grade level search option. To review current Federal pay, please see go to http://www.opm.gov/oca/12tables/index.asp.
Q40: Can the Saved Search feature on the USAJOBS site search for all or multiple locations?
A: Yes, you may select multiple locations. Simply click on your selection and while holding the "Ctrl" button, select the additional locations.
Q41: Is it possible to have multiple identities in USAJOBS or DOORS?
A: No. Your Social Security Number and your USAJOBS Username and Password identify you in DOORS. Any differences between an applicant's name and SSN in USAJOBS and DOORS will be identified and create a system error.
Q42: If you register with other Federal online application systems, can you sign on to USAJOBS using the same logon and password from other Federal application systems?
A: It depends on which system the Federal agency uses. You may have to create a separate login. The Department of Labor uses DOORS, a system integrated directly with USAJOBS, which is why you do not need to create a separate ID and password.
Submitting Supplemental Documentation (ex. College Transcripts and Veteran's Preference documentation
Q43: If the system only accepts online applications, how do I send other requested documents, such as my college transcripts, SF-50's, etc.?
A: Follow the instructions under the ‘How to Apply' tab on how to submit supplemental documents for the announcement. Please note: If the requested document does not apply to you, you will not be required to submit the document (for example, if you are not a Veteran, you will not be required to fax in the Veterans documentation). You may have several methods available for submitting your documents:
- Uploading the document from your computer to your DOL Application
- Downloading the document from USAJOBS into your DOL Application
- Faxing one document at a time using the specific coversheet (with barcode) provided (please see additional questions below)
- Reusing the existing document from your uploaded or USAJOBS downloaded documents
- DOL strongly encourages the electronic filing of applications. Only the Human Resource Officer (HRO) may authorize the use of the alternative paper filing method on a case-by-case basis.
Q44: What steps do I take to submit my supplemental documents?
A: If supplemental documents (e.g., veteran's documentation, transcript, etc.) are required to complete your application, they will be identified in the vacancy announcement 'How to Apply' tab in the "Required Documents" section. If you are required to submit the documentation, it must be received by the vacancy close date.
Click the following link to learn "How to Submit Supplemental Documentation"
http://www.dol.gov/oasam/doljobs/apply/apply-supplemental.htm
Q45: How come I only got one confirmation when I faxed 2 separate documents?
A: If faxing more than one document type, you must NOT fax all documents under one coversheet. You must use the appropriate fax coversheet for each document type (e.g. use college transcripts coversheet for transcripts only, SF-50 coversheet for SF-50 only) and fax each set SEPARATELY. Even though, they are going to the same fax number, they need to be faxed individually to show in the system correctly. Otherwise, you may not be considered for the job.
Q46:I was asked to provide documentation that is not applicable to me (in my case, Veteran's Preference Eligibility documentation). Do I need to provide this documentation?
A: No, you are only required to provide documents that are applicable to you. If you are not sure what the requested document is (for ex. CTAP/ICTAP documentation), this document may not apply to you, but you should contact the vacancy point of contact listed on the vacancy announcement for clarification.
DOL Manager/Selecting Official and Subject Matter Expert Questions
Q47: What is the benefit of using the DOORS system?
A: The former paper-based recruitment process was cumbersome for applicants, managers and HR Staff and did not lend itself to being competitive with private industry or other federal agencies already using new technology. DOORS is helping improve timeliness, reduces paper, provides an electronic audit trail of recruitment actions, and enhances customer service.
Q48: What part of the process does DOORS automate for the manager/selecting official?
A: "e-Certificate". HR will need to request a DOORS account for a manager by emailing DOORS@dol.gov. Managers will then receive an e-mail from the HR Specialist with instructions on how to access the e-Certificate. The e-Certificate will allow managers to view the applicant's resume, responses to core questions and responses to vacancy specific questions.
Q49: What is my role as a Selecting Official and/or Subject Matter Expert (SME)?
A: As the selecting official or SME, your role in the process is critical. You are the subject matter expert and possess the breadth of knowledge, experience and skills needed to identify the competencies to fill the position. As the Manager, it is critical that you take the leadership role in serving as the SME and work collaboratively with your HR Specialist in the development of competency based questions and rating criteria.
Q50: Who is responsible for generating the certificate of eligibles under the DOORS system?
A: The HR Specialist can use the DOORS system to generate a certificate of eligible candidates based upon minimum qualifications. The HR Specialist is responsible for forwarding additional documentation to the selecting official or the documentation will be available for review via the e-Certificate if HR used the fax imaging functionality.
Q51: What kinds of questions are stored in DOORS?
A: Questions pertain to both minimum qualification requirements as well as competency-based questions. Questions can be in a variety of formats, such as Yes/No, True/False, Short and Long Answer, Multiple Choice, and Multiple Answer/Multiple Choice.
Q52: Can new questions be added into DOORS?
A: Yes, the operating HR Office can add new questions (should first be validated by SMEs and the HR Office DOORS Content Controller) to the system at any time. These questions will be stored in the library and can be used for future vacancies.
Q53: I routinely send my vacancy announcements to local and national organizations. Can DOORS help me with this?
A: Yes, the Diversity Initiatives (DIN) feature in DOORS allows the HR Offices to load, save, categorize and store multiple recruitment sources in the system. As each vacancy is prepared for announcement, the HR Specialist can select specific professional associations, educational institutions, or community organizations to receive the vacancy announcement notification. The system then automatically sends an e-mail message to the designated organizations informing them of the vacancy.
Q54: If the system rates and ranks candidates, do I still need to designate a subject matter expert (SME) or rating/ranking panel for my vacancy?
A: No. The intent is for the system to relieve the HR Specialist from having to go through the manual process of determining basic qualification requirements and to eliminate the need for SMEs and rating/ranking panels to review applications although panels may be used for certain jobs. HR Specialists will consult up front with the manager or SME to determine the appropriate questions to be included in the vacancy. Using DOORS does not replace the need for subject matter input.
