Using a military background in government jobs?

I'm considering enlisting after high school and am curious about how a military background can be an asset for government jobs later on. Are there specific roles or advantages I should be aware of?

Absolutely, a military background can significantly enhance your prospects for government jobs. This is due to the transferrable skills you develop during your service, as well as certain preferential hiring practices in place for veterans.

For example, federal agencies use a hiring system that gives preference to veterans, known as "veterans' preference." This system acknowledges the sacrifices made by those who serve in the armed forces by giving them a slight edge over other candidates in the hiring process.

Many transferable skills from military service are highly sought after in government positions. Leadership, organization, teamwork, problem-solving, strategic planning, and the ability to perform under pressure are all valuable assets that you could bring to a government role.

For specific roles, it largely depends on the path within the military you follow. For instance, if you serve in military intelligence, you could look at similar roles within the federal government, like the FBI or the National Security Agency (NSA). Similarly, if your experience is in logistics, you might consider roles within the Department of Transportation or the U.S. Postal Service. Physical prowess gained in the military can lead to roles within the National Park Service or other similar fields. Ultimately, the alignment of your military role to a civil service position would largely depend on the specific set of skills you acquire during your time in service.

Keep in mind that while serving, you'll also have access to training and educational opportunities that can help make you a more appealing candidate for various government roles.

This advantage extends to certain state and municipal jobs as well. Many state governments also have veterans' preference systems in place, so you might have an advantage when applying for state and local government jobs too.

However, remember that the benefits of serving in the military should not only be seen in the context of preferential employment opportunities. It is a significant commitment that involves more than just considerations for future employment. There are a variety of factors that go into this decision, including duty to the country, potential risk, and the personal and family sacrifices that come with military life.