When federal jobs are posted, they often require information that you never need to supply for jobs in the private sector. For example, some federal jobs are only open to veterans, military spouses or current federal employees (known as Status Candidates). Positions have grade levels indicating the level of responsibility (for example, GS-9), and you need to meet the criteria for that grade level.
In the private sector, you may be hired if you have the potential to gain the skills a company wants, even if you lack those skills right now. In the government, job requirements are mandatory: you must already have the right background, education and skills before you apply.
Your federal application must also conform to requirements for format and content. You must respond to all questions and provide all the essays requested.
I have prepared hundreds of resumes, Knowledge Skills or Abilities (KSA) statements, Professional and Technical Qualifications (PTQ), Executive Core Qualifications (ECQ) and other federal forms. If you find a federal job that interests you and believe you have the necessary qualifications, please call me for the help you need in adapting your resume to meet federal standards.