How do you qualify for civilian military jobs abroad?

I'm thinking about working in a civilian military role overseas after college. What qualifications or skills do I need to land a job like that, and are there specific programs or degrees that would help?

Securing a civilian military job abroad often depends on the specific career field and the requirements of the job, but generally, here are several key points to consider:

1. Education: For most positions in a civilian military role, having a bachelor's degree is a basic requirement. The type of degree needed will largely depend on the role you're interested in. For instance, roles in engineering would require a degree in that field, while positions in administration might require a business degree. It's best to research the roles you are interested in to understand the specific educational requirements.

2. Skills: Different roles require different skills. Strong communication skills are often crucial, and ability to work within a team in high-pressure situations is highly valued. Depending on the role, you might also need technical skills throughout a range of areas, whether it's information technology, logistics, or engineering.

3. Certificate and Licenses: Some professions may require professional certification or licenses, like an engineering license for an engineering position or an IT certificate for a technology role.

4. Security Clearance: Some civilian military jobs abroad require security clearance because of the nature of their work. Understand the process of gaining security clearances, which often involves considerable background checks. This may also mean that individual character and financial responsibility become vital prerequisites.

5. Experience: Prior work experience, particularly in the government or military sector, can be extremely beneficial. Many of these roles value the experience you've gained from internships, job roles, and other experience where you've used similar skills or worked in a related field.

6. Languages: Depending on the specific location of the job abroad, some language skills apart from English might be beneficial or even necessary. For example, knowing Arabic could be a major advantage if the position is in the Middle East.

In terms of programs, an ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) program during college could be beneficial as it provides military training and potential job placements after college. Similarly, participating in internships or co-op programs related to your field of interest can be beneficial for gaining practical experience. However, remember to consult with a career counselor or the school's career center to better understand the specific requirements and qualifications needed.

The application process usually occurs through specific government websites, like the USAJOBS site, which act as the hub for the majority of civilian military job postings. Building a strong resume and tailoring your application to the job requirements can go a long way. It's also crucial to prepare thoroughly for any interviews, as these can require in-depth knowledge of specific government and military procedures and topics, depending on the role. Good luck!