I'm looking into job options in Virginia Beach that involve working with the military. Does anyone know what types of jobs are available and what kind of qualifications you might need?
Virginia Beach has a strong military presence, with several bases located within or near the city, including the Naval Air Station Oceana, the Little Creek Amphibious Base, and Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story. These bases generate many job opportunities for both military and civilian personnel, ranging from direct enlistment to working in adjacent industries.
1. Military Service: If you're interested in direct service, you can consider enlisting in the Navy, Army, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard. These positions will require passing physical and academic exams as a minimum qualification. You'll also need to complete basic training and other advanced training programs depending on your chosen field.
2. Civilian Positions: Military bases also hire civilian employees for various roles. Positions can span from office work to maintenance and technical work. Qualifications can vary, but typically require a minimum of a high school diploma or GED. Some roles may require specialized training or a college degree.
3. Defense Contractors: Many private companies contract with the military to provide a range of services from food and housing to technical and logistic support. You could look for positions with defense contractors such as Northrop Grumman, General Dynamics, or Boeing. These positions can have a wide range of qualifications depending on the specific job.
4. Healthcare: The military has a high demand for healthcare professionals to take care of service members and their families. There are jobs available in medical clinics and hospitals for various roles such as doctors, nurses, medical technicians, and administrative staff. For these positions, you commonly need a relevant healthcare certification or degree.
5. Education: There are opportunities for teachers and educators at schools serving military families. Most of these positions require a bachelor's degree in education or a related field and state certification.
Remember, jobs with the military or related to it often require U.S. citizenship, and depending on the position, you may have to pass a security clearance. It's advisable to tailor your education and skills to the type of position you're interested in. Take advantage of networking opportunities, job fairs, and resources from local career centers. These jobs can often be competitive, but with the right qualifications and perseverance, you can find fulfilling opportunities working with the military in Virginia Beach.
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