Securing Federal Jobs as a Military Veteran

I'm planning to join the military after high school, but I'm curious about job prospects afterward. What kinds of federal jobs can military veterans typically secure, and is the process competitive? Any advice on preparing for this career path?

As a military veteran, you will have a wide range of federal jobs open to you. The Federal Government has a long-standing commitment to hiring military veterans due to the broad training, skills, and experience they acquire while in service. Here are some examples of federal jobs that veterans often pursue:

1. Information Technology Specialist - Many veterans acquire IT skills during their service that can be valuable in federal IT jobs.

2. Program Analyst - This is a position where your leadership and analytical skills can shine, as you’ll be responsible for planning, analyzing, and managing programs.

3. Criminal Investigator - Veterans often transition into law enforcement or investigative roles due to their disciplined training.

4. Logistics Management Specialist - Given the military's emphasis on logistics and operation planning, this is a natural fit for many veterans.

5. Contract Specialist - This involves overseeing contracts between the government and suppliers, which is something many veterans are familiar with.

As for the competitive nature of the process, it's essential to note that federal jobs can be highly competitive due to the job stability, extensive benefits, and opportunities for advancement they offer. However, veterans often have a leg up in federal job applications due to the Veterans' Preference program, which gives qualifying veterans preference in appointment over many other applicants.

To prepare for this career path, my advice would be to continue developing your soft skills such as communication, critical thinking, and leadership. Also, identify areas of interest that can guide you in pinpointing specific roles or departments you would like to work in after military service. During your service, seek out any available training or certification courses related to your areas of interest. These will not only enhance your skills but also make your transition into civilian federal jobs smoother.

Lastly, make use of resources like the Veterans' Employment and Training Service (VETS), a government initiative that provides resources for veterans to assist with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job-seeking skills coaching.