I'm exploring the idea of joining the military reserves but wanna keep working a civilian job too. Does anyone know what types of jobs are compatible with being in the reserves?
Absolutely, joining the military reserves definitely doesn't preclude you from having a civilian job. It's actually very common for reservists to balance both. Typically, reserve duty requires one weekend a month and two weeks a year of active duty training, so jobs that offer some flexibility would be ideal.
1. Government Jobs: Many reservists find employment within federal, state, or local government agencies. These public sector jobs often have policies in place that are supportive of military service, including reserve duty.
2. Law Enforcement or Firefighting: These career fields often have shifts that can be adapted to accommodate a reserve schedule. They also value the discipline and training that military service can provide.
3. Health Care Professions: Nurses, paramedics, and other health care workers can typically find schedules that coordinate well with reserve duty. Plus, the skills you learn in the military, especially if you're in a medical unit, can advance your civilian career.
4. Self-Employment: If you're an entrepreneur or freelancer, you'll have the flexibility to set your own hours, which can make it easier to fulfill your reserve duties.
5. Large Corporations: Many big companies have policies to support employees who are reservists, often providing differential pay (making up the difference if your military pay is less than your job pay) and protecting your job while you are on active duty assignments.
Bear in mind that disclosure of your reserve status to potential employers is up to you, but it's generally beneficial to be upfront about it. Employers have a legal obligation to accommodate your service and cannot discriminate based on it. It's helpful to have this conversation with your employer or HR department to find an arrangement that benefits both parties.
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