Interview request came about a month after posting had been closed. It was a panel of two with the head of the branch and the person that will be the direct superior to the position. They were cordial and professional, with the interview questions revolves around your past projects and experience.

Quite straight forward, they email you and ask whether you are interested. They are a few personality questions. Also, they do ask about your background, particular for background check. Drug testing will be required depending on where you are assigned.

The Corps tries to be fair and impartial, and to evaluate resumes based on merit. Personal relations do help a lot. Past history with the Corps helps a lot, particularly in the field you are applying for. Interview is often telephonic, to ensure fairness, though they fly people in for interviews at the higher (GS14+) levels. Most interviewers are by-the-book; they just read the questions and provide no feedback or responses during the interview. Some interviewers are more flexible and provide encouragement if you're doing well, and make sure you fully answered the questions. Wish they were all like that!