Finding overseas military civilian CNA jobs?

I’m a certified nursing assistant curious about civilian positions on military bases overseas. Are these roles common, and do they require different certifications or experience compared to typical CNA jobs?

Civilian roles in military bases, such as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), indeed exist and are not uncommon. However, these positions can be competitive due to the appealing benefits they offer, such as housing allowances and tax advantages, and the opportunity for adventure and travel.

As for the qualifications, the base requirements for CNAs remain similar to those in the States: a high school diploma or equivalent, completion of a state-approved education program, and achievement of a passing score on a competency exam to become certified. That said, the exact requirements might differ based on the specifics of the job and the location of the military base. Some positions might look for individuals with experience in specific areas of medical practice or require additional certifications.

For instance, CNAs hoping to work in emergency medical support might benefit from an EMT (Emergency Medical Technician) or PARAMEDIC certification on top of their CNA. If the role is in a specialized medical environment, such as a surgery center, the certifications or experience required may be specific to that area.

Keep in mind that working on a military base, whether domestically or overseas, often requires an extra layer of vetting. You would have to pass extensive background checks and may need to obtain a security clearance depending on the nature of your work. It's also essential to consider the cultural differences and language barriers you may face while working overseas.

If you're interested in such a role, I'd recommend beginning by checking job boards or websites dedicated to military civilian occupations, such as USAjobs.gov. You could also directly contact a human resource department of the specific military branch you're interested in to inquire about potential opportunities. These can provide greater detail about the available positions, preferred qualifications, and application procedures.