The interview process takes months. First, you submit an application on USAJOBS. Then if they are interested you do a recorded video interview answering a few questions. If you make it to the last phase, you are invited to set up a virtual interview with management then you get the offer via phone call and email. I interviewed for this position twice and got offers both times. The first time the position was virtual and that job offer was rescinded due to the hiring freeze in January 2025. The second time I interviewed and got the offer but they had moved the location to DC and I was going to have to work in a small inner office with 2-5 other new examiners with no flexibility to work from home. The culture at the USPTO had declined quickly over the last year with the administration changing remote work and examiner's union status. Originally the job was my dream job but there were too many unknowns and risks to accept the second offer.