Most transitioning service members are told that the federal government is a good fit for them right after they leave the service. Veterans can apply most of their skills to a new occupation in the public sector, and most federal agencies prefer to hire former military personnel. However, more military-friendly, private-sector companies are hiring more veterans because of their strong work ethic and skill sets. So if you're leaving the service, how do you know if a federal job is for you?
The Partnership for Public Service (PPS) -- an organization dedicated to reestablishing the federal government as an ideal employer -- asked the same question of current federal employees in one of their reports titled, "A Golden Opportunity -- Recruiting Baby Boomers into Government." The PPS found those employees were attracted to the federal government for the following reasons:
Interesting and Challenging Work
- Federal employees can address pressing national issues.
- Have a chance to impact the lives of all Americans
- Federal service is meaningful public service.
World-Class Benefits
- The public sector offers extensive health-care and insurance programs.
- Ample leave and vacation time
- Three-part retirement program
Abundant Opportunities
- There are a little more than 193,000 mission critical job openings that will need to be filled by the end of 2009.
- All occupational backgrounds are valued and sought after.
- There are job openings in all 50 states and across the world.
Employees Receive ...
- Flexible work arrangements
- Competitive salaries
- Job security
- Development and training opportunities
What's more, Veterans' Preference -- the federal government's initiative to hire disabled veterans or former active-duty service members -- gives veterans the edge over their civilian counterparts when applying to public-sector occupations.
Veterans should continue to weigh their career options once they leave the service, but the federal government wants to make itself a great fit for former military personnel. If service members are still not sure of whether the public sector is right for them, they can chat with a veteran who works in one of the federal agencies on Military.com's Veteran Career Network.
Find the Right Veteran Job
Whether you want to polish your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Subscribe to Military.com to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.
