Is Service in the Military Considered a Federal Job?

I know that military service is connected to the government, but is it technically considered a federal job? Wondering if this classification affects benefits or retirement plans compared to other federal positions.

Yes, service in the military is considered a federal job. Members of the military work for the Department of Defense, which is a part of the U.S. government. This indeed affects benefits, retirement plans, and even protections compared to traditional civilian federal jobs.

Military service comes with a unique set of benefits that are often more extensive than those in civilian federal jobs. These include healthcare, housing, and education allowances, special pay for assignments involving an additional level of risk, and unique retirement systems.

Specifically, the military uses a system called the Blended Retirement System (BRS) for individuals who have joined the service on or after January 1, 2018. This system combines elements of a traditional defined benefit plan, where the retiree receives a set pay, with a defined contribution plan, similar to a 401(k) available in the private sector.

Another unique aspect of military service is the service members' protection under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). This act provides certain rights and protections for individuals who voluntarily or involuntarily leave employment positions for military service.

While military service is indeed a federal job, the experience of serving in the military, the structure of benefits, and the transition back to civilian life differ greatly from most federal civilian positions. It's essential to consider these differences when deciding on a career path. If you're considering military service, I encourage you to discuss these aspects with a military recruiter or a career counselor to have a comprehensive understanding of what military service entails.