No matter what the economic situation, governments need your talent and technical expertise.
Even Charles Worthington, CTO of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, came out on a stump Trying to court a technical expert. If working for the federal government doesn't appeal to you, you have the following options: Opportunities abound for state and local governments This includes public universities, public health, and even some 501(c)(3) organizations that receive a significant portion of their income from the government.
But how do you know if you have a carrier? public service Is it the right thing to do for you? From increased job security to purposeful work, here are some top reasons to consider a career in the civil service.
Secure and predictable income
Heather Krasna, associate dean of Columbia University's School of Career and Professional Development and author of “Job That Matters: Finding a Stable, Fulfilling Career,” says He says no job is safe. public service. “
Krasna has acknowledged the layoffs (as the government calls them), but reduction in military strength), affected employees will receive “priority consideration” for open positions and often end up transferring to another agency.
While it's true that you won't receive stock options or a Silicon Valley-style salary, you may be able to make up the difference. over time or extra wage Depending on your role, level, and your agency's need for talent with in-demand skills, such as: cyber security.
plus, basic salary for the position are always disclosed in job postings, so you can see if they meet your needs before applying. Mr. Krasna also pointed to generous benefits, including: health care, Defined pension plans, flexible schedules, paid time off, Tuition fee refund and students loan forgiveness, You will save a lot of money in the long run.
For many technology professionals, a stable career in the civil service with good benefits can earn more than a roller-coaster career at a major technology company.
Possibility to work with cutting-edge technology
Are you worried that going into public service will mean giving up opportunities to work on innovative technology? necessarily Case.
While it's true that some government agencies still rely on COBOL applications and faxing, others rely on artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), nanotechnology, augmented or virtual reality (VR), We are investing billions of dollars in IoT, DevSecOps processes. more.
Find jobs with the latest, cutting-edge technology in the following ways: Research the government tech stack and Use Case They demonstrate how government agencies are leveraging AI and other technologies to better serve their citizens. Another great resource for private sector engineers considering a transition to the civil service is: From engineers to government
It is important to note that each agency has its own budget for technical training programs, workshops, conferences, certifications, and educational courses, so you should ask for details during the interview process.
meaningful work
Beyond traditional career goals, the biggest reason to consider a career in public service is the ability to make an impact on people's daily lives, said Associate Deputy Director of Federal Workforce Programs at the Partnership for Public Service. President Michelle Amante said. Nowhere else can you find a job like this. ”
Whether you want to protect Americans from cybersecurity threats, improve the quality of education, modernize data collection to fight disease, or protect the environment, it's possible to find your purpose. . department or agency Its mission aligns with your interests, passions, and values.
By the way, you don't have to live in Washington, DC to work for the federal government. In fact, about 85% of the more than 2 million federal employees actually work across the country, with some jobs designated as fully remote. most federal employees Located in California (248,067), Texas (211,873), and Virginia (206,269).
career mobility
While internal transfers can be very difficult in large private companies, internal transfers are actually encouraged in the civil service.
After three years, they will be eligible to transfer to another federal agency to fill positions not available to outsiders, Amante said. Additionally, our management team strongly supports technology professionals who want to move between the public and private sectors to grow their careers.
Speaking of opportunities, about 30% of the government's 1.6 million full-time employees will be eligible to retire over the next five years, opening the door to transfers and management roles for motivated technical professionals who are planning for the future. is.
Competency-based promotion processes and criteria are generally available in writing, allowing candidates to take proactive steps to meet requirements before opportunities arise.
Trial run opportunity
The downside to getting a permanent job in the civil service is that the hiring process can take more than 100 days. Starting with a 501(c)(3) public charity or supporting a university's teaching, learning, research, or health care mission is a great way to earn a regular salary and become a public servant before committing fully. It's a faster way to experience the service environment.
Contracts are another way to test public waters and are often Many surprising benefits. In fact, contractors sometimes receive higher wages than full-time government employees doing similar work. It's a great way to pay some of your bills while you navigate the long government recruitment process.
