Can a Civilian Get a Military Job in California?

I'm considering different paths after high school and was wondering if it's possible for a civilian like me to work a military-related job in California. Do these jobs require any special qualifications or degrees?

Yes, a civilian can indeed obtain a military-related job in California. These positions are often referred to as civilian military jobs or Department of Defense (DoD) jobs, which include wide-ranging positions that support military operations but do not necessitate being an active-duty soldier.

These positions might be within specific branches of the military, defense contractors, or even federal agencies. Examples include roles in administration, healthcare, IT, logistics, engineering, and more.

In terms of qualifications, it largely depends on the particular role you are eyeing. Jobs that are technical in nature might require a degree or certification in a related field. For instance, an IT position might require a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, and/or relevant certifications.

Additionally, qualifications can also include having the ability to obtain security clearances, a background check, and sometimes medical examinations, given the nature of being in a military environment.

It's also important to note that competition for these positions can be quite high, given the quality of benefits and opportunities for advancement. So, it’s beneficial to gain as much related experience and education as possible to stand out.

While it isn't strictly required, military service can count towards both the qualifications for the job and federal retirement benefits, which might make these jobs specifically appealing to military veterans.

Popular job searching websites often have a section dedicated to these positions, or you might consider searching the official governmental jobs site. You could also look into attending job fairs or networking events focused specifically on these roles.