Arnold DavisMany people are cynical about the government, and rightly so. However, for those who love to serve their country unselfishly and see the chance to make small differences that can blossom into system-wide changes, working in government is a rewarding career choice.
Whether it’s in law, medicine or public policy, government jobs are found throughout the United States and around the world.
1. The Opportunity to Make a Difference
Many people are cynical about the government, but the truth is that dedicated civil servants can make a difference in the world. They can be part of the process of putting an end to homelessness, finding cures for diseases, keeping our food supply safe and much more.
These jobs are also stable, unlike private sector roles that often feel temporary. People can find a role that fits their skill set and then build a career.
There are even a number of ways to learn more about opportunities in the federal government, including the resources available on USAJobs and Go Government. These Career Guides help people narrow down their options and start exploring the possibilities. They can even help them create a list of skills and requirements that they should include on their resumes.
2. Generous Benefits
Government jobs offer generous benefits, including health insurance, vacation days and sick leave. Many also have a retirement pension and/or a 457(b) plan, an employer-sponsored tax-deferred savings account.
Private-sector companies operate in a competitive market and must generate profits to stay in business. They hold employees accountable for their performance and may terminate them or restructure roles. This can be stimulating for workers as it encourages them to innovate and improve their value.
In contrast, most government jobs are permanent and require security clearance. Some people see these positions as a stepping-stone to private-sector employment and gain valuable experience that makes them more competitive at other companies. They can also earn more money than they would in a similar private-sector job. This enables them to meet their financial goals.
3. Stability
As long as the government exists, it will need employees to carry out its functions. Government jobs offer stability that is often hard to find in the private sector.
Aside from the potential for advancement, government jobs offer consistent schedules and job security. Some governmental agencies may provide work-from-home and other flexible options that allow for a better balance of life.
Many federal jobs also include pensions and retirement packages, which can be extremely beneficial for those who want to spend their retirement years comfortably. These benefits can make government jobs “sticky” for employees, especially as the popularity of strong benefits continues to wane in the private sector.
4. Job Security
Job security is the confidence an employee has that he or she can expect to remain employed at a company for the foreseeable future. When employees feel secure in their jobs, they can perform at a higher level because they do not have to worry about being laid off or losing their position.
Government jobs offer a high degree of job stability, especially compared to positions at private companies. However, government agencies can still be affected by budget cuts and other financial challenges.
Government workers also benefit from impressive pension and retirement packages, which provide a steady stream of income after they leave the workforce. For these reasons, government jobs can be a great choice for people who are seeking stable employment.
5. Variety
Despite the stereotypes that surround government work, there are jobs available for just about any interest and skill set. The government needs business specialists to manage the financial departments, technology experts to keep up with the evolving technological landscape and administrative staff to handle the day-to-day operations.
In addition, most government jobs come with standard pay increases based on years of service and many positions offer health insurance and retirement savings plans that you would find hard to match in the private sector.
Conclusion:
Whether it’s combating crime, preserving natural assets or contributing to national defense, there is a job out there for everyone. The key is to know where to look. Using the tips in this article, you can easily find the perfect fit for your skills and interests.