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 learn more

  • 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 learn more

  • 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 learn more

  • 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 learn more

  • 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 learn more

  • 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.
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