The hiring process has multiple stages. First you must apply online and supplying all required information may take a few days. That is due to the lengthy wording needed to answer some of their questions.
Second, you will take 3 online exams. These are meant to place your general knowledge, writing and reading comprehension against all other applicants. They are not designed as pass/fail, rather how well you do versus everyone else.
Third, after about 1 year, if you are selected you will be asked to do an in person interview where you will have to write a 1 page paper within 45 minutes on a topic given on the spot. Afterwards, you will conduct a panel interview with DoS personnel.