The SEC has a variety of positions that we advertise throughout the year. We understand that the application process can be confusing for applicants. Below are some appointment authorities that allow you to apply outside of the regular competitive process.

Entry-Level Attorneys (SK-13 and below)

Interested applicants may submit their resumes directly to the program offices for consideration for SK-13 and below attorney positions.

Excepted Service Hiring Authority (ESHA)

This hiring authority is unique to the SEC. The use of ESHA is limited to the positions of accountant, economist, securities compliance examiner, information technology (IT) specialist, and any position that requires specialized knowledge of financial and capital market formation or regulation, financial market structures or surveillance, or information technology.

Fellows

Fellows are specialized positions that require knowledge of financial and capital market formation or regulation, financial market structures, or surveillance. They are temporary appointments, not to exceed four years, at the SK-14 and SK-16 grade levels. Applicants may submit their resumes directly to the program offices.

Governmentwide Direct Hire Authority

Some positions identified by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) may be filled utilizing this special authority, which streamlines the hiring process. Applicants must apply through vacancy announcements posted on USAJOBS; however, the process is shortened.

Schedule A (Disability) Appointment

Individuals with an intellectual disability, severe physical disability, or psychiatric disability may be appointed without applying to a vacancy announcement. The SEC maintains a database of individuals who meet these requirements.

SEC Scholars Program

Student internship positions are available three times per calendar year (fall, spring, and summer). It is a ten-week paid position designed for students pursuing an undergraduate, graduate, or law degree. The program is open to currently enrolled business students (graduates and undergraduates in a variety of majors) and law students (1L, 2L, 3L, LLM, and other law school programs). Applicants must apply through vacancy announcements posted on USAJOBS.

Students and Recent Graduates (paid)

Some positions are only open to students who are currently in school or who have recently graduated. Applicants must apply through vacancy announcements posted on USAJOBS.

Veteran Appointment Authorities

There are a variety of appointment authorities that assist veterans in obtaining federal employment. Some do not require the veteran to apply to a vacancy announcement. The SEC maintains a database of veterans who meet these requirements.