5 Reasons Veterans Want a Federal Job

Hunting for a job after military transition can be a stressful, tricky task. After all, Uncle Sam provided a lot of job stability while you were serving.

So why not continue that stability with a federal civilian job? With plenty of career fields from which to choose, a veteran hiring preference and time in service counting toward retirement, a government job brings plenty to love.

Related: For the latest veteran jobs postings around the country, visit the Military.com Job Search section.

Need other reasons to work for the federal government? Here are five.

1. Great Benefits

Average government salaries are competitive with the private and nonprofit sectors. Pay can also increase fairly quickly for top candidates with strong education and experience. And federal benefits, including health insurance, retirement and vacation, are extremely competitive with, if not superior to, other sectors.

Another notable benefit of federal employment is family-friendly policies, including flexible work schedules, as well as first priority and subsidies at a number of top-notch, day-care facilities, including on-site day care.

2. Location, Location, Location

Where do you want to work and live? Whatever the answer, chances are that you can find federal government work there. Most people think that federal government jobs are all in Washington, D.C., but in fact, 84% of those jobs are outside of the D.C. area. Even living overseas is a ready option; more than 50,000 federal government employees work abroad.

3. 9-to-5? Suit and Tie? Not So Much Anymore.

Flexible federal work schedules, including telework, are a major plus for those with busy schedules or long commutes. And, of course, there's everyone's favorite: federal holidays (Columbus Day, anyone?), plus generous vacation and sick leave. In addition, in a bid to attract talented workers, government agencies have adopted more casual dress codes for employees. All of these packaged together make the government an attractive employer.

4. Job Stability

While there have been more government shutdowns and federal furloughs recently than in past years, shutdowns are actually rare. And when they happen, about half of shutdowns last three days or less. Sometimes, they don't even last long enough to shut down government activities. Typically, only about 20% of the government is actually closed during any given government partial shutdown. That may seem like serious instability, but it's far less risky than the private sector. Let's face it: The government isn't going to go out of business.

5. Public Service Lets You Continue the Mission.

Just because you took off your uniform doesn't mean you still can't serve. Many veterans find a new mission in public service through a federal job. Pros? Your time in service counts toward promotion and retirement, and you get veteran preference points on your application.

As far as continuing the mission, the work of government employees impacts the lives of every American and the lives of people around the world. You can play a vital role in addressing pressing issues, from homelessness to homeland security.

Of course, working for the federal government isn't all roses. There are plenty of reasons veterans shouldn't work for the federal government.

Private sector or federal, whatever your choice, Military.com is here to help you find the perfect job.

Related: Unleash your career potential and get customized job recommendations based on your military experience and personality traits.

The Next Step: Find the Right Veteran Job

Whether you want to polish up your resume, find veteran job fairs in your area, or connect with employers looking to hire veterans, Military.com can help. Sign up for a free Military.com membership to have job postings, guides and advice, and more delivered directly to your inbox.