I think I’m about to get laid off due to DOE cuts… Should I start applying for other jobs?

12 Comments

1. AnonymousMay 19,2025 at 1:13AM UTC

   Yes! Look at state jobs, colleges and universities too.

2. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition SpecialistMay 19,2025 at 2:03AM UTC

   If you work for the federal government and have not updated your resume and started applying, I can't imagine what you're waiting for. I would strongly encourage you to start interviewing asap - while you have a job.

3. AnonymousMay 19,2025 at 4:05AM UTC

   Why would you not look after yourself? Get a headstart. You don't have to accept anything but I would be proactive. It is taking upwards to 5 months for an offer so why wait?

4. Jazzlyn BanksMay 19,2025 at 10:55AM UTC

   Yes, don't wait. Start applying for jobs now before your organization would start laying off their employees.

5. AnonymousMay 19,2025 at 12:04PM UTC

   My first boss told me to always have your resume updated. Sound advice. I was able to find a better job within a year.

6. AnonymousMay 19,2025 at 12:12PM UTC

   Being the newest doesn't always mean the first to go. It is always better to begin the search, but continue to do your job well, as rising to the occasion can make a difference. Cost-cutting generally involves those paid the most first, especially if they are becoming overpaid for the market (which seldom happens in the non-profit world except for executives). A non-profit may also ask for voluntary lay-offs and early retirements, or ask employees to take a temporary voluntary pay cut. It will trigger involuntary lay-offs if it still can't meet its budget. Depending on their dependence on federal grants, they may trigger an emergency grass-roots fund-raising effort. In my experience, non-profits use many more creative ways to meet their personnel budget than the for-profit world.

7. Megan LeasherMay 19,2025 at 12:34PM UTC

   Yes, don't wait. You have to take care of yourself!

8. AnonymousMay 19,2025 at 12:50PM UTC

   I am a healthcare executive was laid off almost 2 years ago. It’s hard out here. If you feel you’re going to be laid off, definitely start looking for something as soon as you can. Good luck!

9. Titra HamiltonMay 19,2025 at 5:51PM UTC

   Yes, start looking now. With a flood of job seekers hitting the market, you don't want to be the one cutting the lights off after everyone is gone. The employment landscape has changed so much over the years that I would advise EVERYONE to keep your resume updated and ready for opportunities that may come up. It is easier to tailor and up-to-date resumes than have to build one from scratch. A friend is a Fed possibly facing a layoff and she has not touched her resume in 35 years. She cannot even find her resume. The thought of having to build one leaves her in tears. If you stay ready, then you won't have to get ready. Good luck and big hugs to all job seekers.

10. AnonymousMay 19,2025 at 9:53PM UTC

    Yes. Keep your resume updated. Each milestone or certification, professional development or professional orgs like SHRM, update your resume if relevant to you professionally. I make it a habit of updating my resume at the yearly review time when I’m pulling data. But I was also a recruiter and always have an updated resume. Always keep your professional profile updated. Stay relevant.

11. AnonymousMay 21,2025 at 9:00PM UTC

    keeping it simple, yes.

12. Patricia Osborne RandolphMay 22,2025 at 2:30PM UTC

    Only you can make that call, because I do not know the connection you have with your management or company. Maybe they are going to reduce programs, not people.