Are there civilian jobs that recognize military time in service for retirement benefits? I'd love to hear about any opportunities that offer perks for former military members looking to transition into civilian roles.
Absolutely, there are civilian jobs that value military service and provide benefits for it. Federal government jobs generally have the most robust benefits for military veterans. If you're a military veteran and become a federal civilian employee, your military service can contribute to your Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) benefits.
Certain state government jobs also apply your military service towards your retirement plan. Each state has its own rules, so you'll need to check with individual state's websites or their human resources departments. Similarly, some local city or county positions might count military service as well.
Lastly, while it's less common in the private sector, some large corporations may also offer similar benefits, especially if they contract with the government or are involved in defense work. However, keep in mind these benefits may vary greatly, so it's definitely important to ask during the hiring process.
In terms of non-monetary perks, many employers are military-friendly and recognize the value of the skills and experiences that veterans bring to their organizations. Veteran-friendly employers often have programs and initiatives in place to hire, develop, and retain veterans. Example of this may include mentoring programs, onboarding initiatives tailored for veterans, and affinity groups.
Remember, it's always a good idea to do your research on the specific job and organization you're interested in, and ask about these benefits during your job search. Always read the details of any employment contract or benefits package before accepting a position.
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