Your First Days & Weeks

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Illustrated onboarding journey with a hiker carrying a red flag and raising one arm in triumph near the end of a winding path, approaching a government building at the top of a hill.

Your first days and weeks with the Department of the Interior are an exciting time to get connected, learn about your new role, and become familiar with your team and workplace. While there may be a lot of new information to take in, we're here to help you feel prepared and supported every step of the way.

This section outlines what you can expect during your first day, the activities you'll complete in your first weeks, and resources to help you transition successfully into your new role.

Remember, onboarding doesn't end after your first day—it's a journey that continues as you learn, grow, and become part of the Department of the Interior.

Information Management and Technology (IMT) Awareness Training - REQUIRED

To help protect Department of the Interior information, systems, and data, all new employees and others requiring access to DOI networks must complete the IMT Awareness Training before receiving access to government systems.

The training provides an introduction to information security, acceptable use of government technology, and your responsibilities as a DOI user. Most prospective employees complete this prior to their start date on a personal device.

Getting Started

  • Visit the DOI External Training page.
  • Create an eDOIU account using the provided instructions.
  • Locate and complete all required pages within the IMT Awareness Training course.
  • Save your course completion certificate.

Submit Your Certificate

  • After completing the training, send a copy of your completion certificate to your supervisor and the Human Resources specialist assisting you at least two weeks before your start date.

Completing this requirement in advance helps ensure your system access can be established as quickly as possible, allowing you to begin work with the tools and resources you need on your first day.

Preparing for Day One

Your first day is almost here! Taking a few minutes to confirm the details of your arrival can help ensure a smooth and successful start.

Before your first day, consider reaching out to your supervisor or onboarding contact to confirm:

  • Your reporting location and building address

  • Where to enter the facility and any security procedures

  • Your arrival time and who to contact when you arrive

  • Parking availability or public transportation options

  • The expected dress code for your position

  • Any equipment, uniforms, or special items you may need

  • Orientation sessions, meetings, or training activities scheduled for your first day

  • Whether lunch/meal options are available nearby for purchase or whether your reporting location has kitchen equipment (refrigerator, microwave)

If you have questions about your schedule, workspace, or onboarding process, don't hesitate to ask. Your supervisor and onboarding team are here to help make your transition as seamless as possible.

Your First Day

Your first day is all about getting connected. You'll meet the people you'll be working with, become familiar with your workplace, and begin completing the activities that will help set you up for success.

While every bureau, office, and position is unique, many new employees can expect to:

  • Meet their supervisor and team members

  • Attend orientation or onboarding sessions

  • Receive their computer, equipment, and system access information

  • Access Quicktime and learn how to record time and attendance

  • Complete the Form I-9, which verifies identity and authorization to work in the United States

  • Complete Standard Form 61 (SF-61), the Appointment Affidavit and Oath of Office

  • Learn about workplace policies, procedures, and available resources

  • Receive an overview of their position, responsibilities, and first-week expectations

To help ensure a smooth onboarding experience, you may wish to have the following information readily available:

  • Banking information for direct deposit

  • Emergency contact information

  • Beneficiary information for applicable benefits programs

  • Personal information needed for tax and benefits enrollment decisions

GET EXCITED!

Your First Weeks

Your onboarding experience doesn't end after your first day. During your first few weeks, you'll continue learning about your role, completing required activities, and becoming familiar with the Department of the Interior.

Depending on your position, you may:

  • Complete payroll and employment-related forms, if needed.
  • Review and enroll in eligible benefits.
  • Complete required training and security briefings.
  • Become familiar with your team's processes and expectations.
  • Meet additional colleagues and key partners.
  • Continue setting up your workspace, equipment, and system access.
  • Begin working on your initial assignments and goals with your supervisor.

Remember, no one expects you to learn everything on your first day. The goal is simply to get you connected with the people, tools, and resources you need to begin your journey with the Department of the Interior.

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