changing jobs within federal agency

[Anonymous]

I'm a contractor but might be hired as a fed within the next few months (not a done deal but looks promising so far). From the standpoint of stability, it would be a great move. My concern is that I don't know how long I want to stay in this particular job. I'm relatively new, so I could envision staying on for a couple years. But the job has a fairly narrow range of responsibilities so I don't see it as a longterm career. Ideally I'd stay in my current role for a few years, then transfer to another position with the same agency.

Does this sound realistic or is it harder to move internally as a fed than I'm thinking? FWIW this is at a mid-sized agency.

[Anonymous]

I'm in my third position in 9 years at a small agency. I think this is fairly common, particularly if you are known for doing good work. Another office sought me out (same location, different office) based on my work and reputation to move from the first position to the second. The second and third were located in the same office.

[Anonymous]

I think it depends a lot on the specific agency etc., and what you mean by "a fairly narrow range of responsibilities."

For example, if you meant you covered FOIA, then while that is narrow, you could go to pretty much any agency in the federal govt and find work, but if neither your skills nor your subject matter are transferable, then that's more difficult.

[Anonymous]

Once you are in, you can move around. Just make sure you don't burn bridges. People don't forget.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I think it depends a lot on the specific agency etc., and what you mean by "a fairly narrow range of responsibilities."

For example, if you meant you covered FOIA, then while that is narrow, you could go to pretty much any agency in the federal govt and find work, but if neither your skills nor your subject matter are transferable, then that's more difficult.

Bingo!
I process Disability claims. This is a very limited position and the skillset is not easily transferrable to any other job or agency. I've been applying on USAJOBS occasionally since 2008. Still in the same job.