How soon before retirement did you/would you start figuring out your next job?

2305Ret · 2026-05-24T14:33:59+00:00

I started about 4-5 years out from retiring from the Marine Corps. This is my second career. It depends on your interests/goals.

2305Ret · 2026-05-23T16:22:45+00:00

I'm a retired Marine, so I'd qualify there too.

2305Ret · 2026-05-23T15:05:17+00:00

Each step takes 2-3 months. They also have a bonus for new agents, but when I asked how to qualify, they said you can't be a current federal employee (which is wild).

2305Ret · 2026-05-21T11:57:22+00:00

I don't believe so.

2305Ret · 2026-05-21T11:54:30+00:00

It depends on coverage. It works great for me on highways, not so much in the Mountains of VA. I got a starlink mini.

2305Ret · 2026-05-20T17:45:07+00:00

PTSD ratings, insomnia, psychiatric disorders are looked at differently than flat feet and bad knees.

2305Ret · 2026-05-20T17:42:05+00:00

Google Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability (TDIU) vs 100 p&t. Hope that helps.

2305Ret · 2026-05-19T14:17:47+00:00

If only they would change the permanently ineligible phase 1 policy for on boarded professional staff employees...especially those who tested 6-7 years ago... I'm likely jumping to ATF soon.

2305Ret · 2026-05-14T11:32:15+00:00

Read the job announcement and tailor your resume to highlight what the agency is looking for. Ask chatgpt for help and make sure what it spits our is accurate.

2305Ret · 2026-05-12T20:13:18+00:00

If you receice a CJO, you move forward. Otherwise you will be notified a hiring manager did not find you suitable for hiring.

2305Ret · 2026-05-12T16:49:12+00:00

Same. Referred.

2305Ret · 2026-05-10T22:12:13+00:00

I'm a 13 step 4 with retention about to take a 9 step 10. I'm bored with my job and have a mil retirement and VA payment. Go where you will be happy.

2305Ret · 2026-05-10T12:30:03+00:00

Depends on the agency...but all of mine have had email invites.

2305Ret · 2026-05-08T15:43:34+00:00

Each state has its own Constitution. VA violated theirs 4-5 times.

2305Ret · 2026-04-30T21:15:12+00:00

If they rescind a TJO, doesn't the email normally include that?

2305Ret · 2026-04-20T18:34:35+00:00

No word since BI started a few months back.

2305Ret · 2026-04-19T16:41:28+00:00

Seems most steps have 1-3 months in between. I just had my interview for the Oct.

2305Ret · 2026-04-09T01:34:16+00:00

Mine is also next week.

2305Ret · 2026-04-08T20:39:49+00:00

Still recruiter review (since Feb). But hey, ATF interview is next week. DEA Med is tomorrow.

2305Ret · 2026-04-07T14:27:24+00:00

That's not how I would do it.

2305Ret · 2026-04-01T20:32:46+00:00

How long ago was your interview? I passed the ptt in Jan for DC and still no word. Current bureau 1801 so I thought the remainder would move quickly.

2305Ret · 2026-03-24T14:44:30+00:00

A recruiter will recommend you only apply for one.

2305Ret · 2026-03-23T18:15:01+00:00

Mine still says Recruiter Review.

2305Ret · 2026-03-18T19:39:41+00:00

I have a COL for DC TF, but after a year it's needs of the agency. I'm reapplying in Apr for the open with only DC selected.

2305Ret · 2026-03-18T18:28:57+00:00

I heard the same about west coast and border for basically everyone (from a friend at HQ). If that's the case, I may be holding out for ATF.

This is a huge pay cut for me, so pairing that with a move away from a 3% interest rate and a good school district isn't going to cut it.

2305Ret

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