I applied through an employee referral. The process took 2 months. I interviewed at U.S. Department of State (Washington, DC) in Jan 2011
Interview
I was first hired for a contractor position. I was called for an interview about 2 months after submitting my resume and cover letter. I was interviewed by an office director and two members of senior management. The interview lasted about 45 minutes. Their decision was made within a couple weeks, through a phone call with the contracting company.