I'm thinking about a future where I join the military and maybe work abroad afterwards. What kinds of job opportunities are available for veterans overseas? Are there specific industries or companies that hire veterans internationally?
Jobs for veterans overseas vary greatly depending on their skill sets, experiences, and personal interests. Many international companies value the discipline, teamwork, leadership, and specialized skills that veterans bring to the table. Here are a few industries and job types typically open to hiring veterans:
1. Defense Contractors: Companies that have contracts with the U.S. government often hire veterans for overseas positions because of their training and security clearances. Examples of these kinds of roles could be intelligence analysts, security supervisors, or logistics specialists.
2. Information Technology: The military provides extensive training in IT and cybersecurity, so many veterans transition into similar roles in the private sector overseas, such as systems administration, network security management, or software development.
3. Construction and Engineering: Veterans with engineering-affiliated roles in the military often find similar work overseas with construction and engineering firms working on large-scale infrastructure projects.
4. Private Security Firms: Many veterans transition into private security roles in conflict zones or developing countries. These roles could be anything from securing diplomatic compounds to protecting VIPs.
5. Education: English-language teaching overseas is a popular option for many veterans.
6. Not-for-Profit sector: Some veterans find fulfilling work with international NGOs where they can leverage their unique skills in areas like crisis management, disaster mitigation, and community outreach.
Amazon is an example of a multinational company that has a comprehensive military veterans hiring program. They view military service as a strong indicator of leadership and relevant work experience.
Remember that overseas work may require fluency in a foreign language or a willingness to learn one. Programs recognized by the military, like the Defense Language Institute, can provide current and former service members with language training. Pairing these skills with your military experience can open a multitude of job opportunities.
Finally, it’s helpful to connect with job placement agencies or programs that specialize in helping veterans find employment, such as Hire Heroes USA. They can provide tailored advice based on your military background and desired employment field.
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