The process was sped up considerable due to the rapid approach of the end of the fiscal year. I was contacted in July by a supervisor to see if I was interested. I applied in August and was interviewed/accepted the same month. I started work at the end of September. Usually this process is much longer. So far, the culture is professional and enjoyable. If you are interested in government work, be prepared. The more research you do on the position you are applying for, the better your chances are of acceptance.