Code for America

Why applying the normal way doesn't work

Code for America runs an applicant tracking system (Greenhouse), but hiring managers still work referrals first. A cold application to Code for America isn't dead, it's just fourth in line behind internal referrals, sourced candidates and recruiter pipelines.

Who to contact at Code for America

No verified contact route for Code for America yet. Expect the hiring manager for the team that's hiring to make the call, but treat this as a model, not confirmed data.

What Code for America screens for

relevant experience and ability to operate autonomously

A tailored CV beats a generic one. Use Code for America's job description language to clear filters.

Mistakes that kill Code for America applications

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  Don't send the same CV you sent everywhere else. Whoever reads applications at Code for America can tell, and it's the fastest rejection there is.

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  Don't open with what you want. Open with what Code for America is dealing with right now — is growing, and what you'd do about it.

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  The wait-and-hope strategy fails. Follow up on day five — response rates roughly double.