Overview
You probably know something about jobs in the private and nonprofit sectors, but did you know that…
1. The Nation's Largest Employer is Hiring
- In the next five years, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) projects that more than 550,000 federal employees — one-third of the entire full-time permanent workforce — will leave the government.
- OPM further projects that by 2016, 40 percent of all current federal employees will retire — that’s a lot of job openings!
2. You Can Make a Difference 
- The work of government employee impacts the lives of every American.
- You can play a vital role in addressing pressing issues, from homelessness to homeland security.
3. There's a Job for Every Interest
- There are federal jobs suited to every interest and skill, from art history to zoology.
- You can combine your skills with your interests — for example, use your accounting background to improve your environment, your engineering degree to improve airport security, or your biology degree to conduct cutting-edge medical research.
4. The Federal Government Can Help Pay for School
- Federal agencies may help you pay back up to $10,000 per year of your student loans.
- Some agencies may pick up the tab if you decide to pursue a graduate degree.
5. You Can Advance Quickly
- Federal agencies offer excellent training and development opportunities.
- There are a number of “fast track” possibilities for advancement within your field.
6. There are Federal Jobs Around the Country… and Around the World
- Nearly 85 percent of federal jobs are located outside of the greater metropolitan Washington, D.C. area.
- More than 50,000 federal employees work abroad.
7. The Federal Government Values Diversity
- The federal government has steadily increased the diversity of its workforce.
- Federal agencies actively encourage minorities and individuals with disabilities to consider government service through a variety of internship and fellowship programs.
8. Federal Jobs Pay Better Than You Think
- Average government salaries are competitive for most professions.
- Pay can increase pretty quickly for top candidates with strong education and experience.
9. Flexible Work Schedules and Benefits Encourage Work-Life Balance
- Flexible work schedules are a major upside for those with busy schedules.
- Federal benefits, including health insurance, retirement and vacation, are extremely competitive with the private sector.
10. The Federal Government Is a Career Builder
- Advance your career by developing highly marketable skills.
- Utilize your federal experiences as a building block for an exciting and diverse career.