Muhammad Farooq

101 days. That is the average federal time-to-hire according to OPM. Direct Hire Authority was built to cut through that. When OPM identifies a critical hiring need or severe candidate shortage, agencies can bypass competitive rating and ranking, veterans' preference in selection, and the traditional referral process entirely. Right now government-wide DHA covers IT, cybersecurity, STEM, AI, and certain medical occupations, including roles up to GS-15. But Direct Hire does not mean automatic hire. You still need the qualifications. You still need the specialized experience. And your federal resume still has to prove both, clearly, in language that matches the announcement. Here is what most people miss: DHA postings move fast. Some close within 48 to 72 hours. By the time most applicants find them, they are already gone. The ones getting hired are not more qualified. They are more prepared. Know your job series. Know your GS level. Set your USAJOBS alerts now. Because when a DHA posting drops in your series, there is no time to start your resume. What job series and GS level are you targeting? Drop it below.