Are there job preferences for military spouses under Executive Order 13473?

I'm curious about the job opportunities available for military spouses under Executive Order 13473. How does this preference work for federal job openings, and are there any particular fields where it's more advantageous?

Yes, you're right that Executive Order 13473 provides certain non-competitive hiring preferences for military spouses. Here's how it works:

Under this order, federal agencies are authorized to recruit and non-competitively appoint eligible military spouses to positions in the competitive service of the federal government. It's possible that this could make it easier for you to obtain a federal job because it allows for hiring without having to go through the traditional competitive process. It can be particularly advantageous if you are frequently relocating due to your partner's military service, as many federal jobs are often spread out across various agencies and locations.

That being said, it's important to note that this is a preference and not an entitlement. The hiring agency is not required to select a spouse over any other qualified applicant, and likewise, a spouse can be chosen over a veteran if the spouse is a better qualified applicant.

As for fields where this preference might be more advantageous, it really depends on where you are and what jobs are available at the moment. Remember that federal jobs span a wide range of fields, from healthcare and administration to law enforcement, intelligence, and beyond.

When you apply for a federal job, make sure to indicate in your application that you’re eligible under Executive Order 13473. Evidence of your spousal status (i.e., a copy of your spouse’s orders, marriage certificate) may be required as well.