There are a lot of great companies and great jobs in Alaska. Assignment in Alaska is technically considered overseas for the military and civil servants at the numerous bases scattered throughout the state. However, cold weather and the rugged living require a pioneer mindset. Many find this appealing, but after a harsh winter, there are a few that regret taking the job. Traditionally, this has worked to the advantage of those seeking employment in Alaska, as there are almost always job opportunities in this extraordinary location.
Leidos, Raytheon, General Dynamics, and Northrop Grumman are among the many contract companies currently hiring in Alaska. You can look at many of these offerings on ClearanceJobs.com and filter for Alaska. Alaska also has many civil service positions that you can search for on USAJOBS. The DoD has civil service positions that are open in the management realm, along with systems analyst, program analyst, contract specialist, acquisition analyst, IT and cybersecurity specialist.
Alongside the U.S. Army and Air Force, the Coast Guard, National Guard, and Space Force have bases in Alaska, all with contract and civil service positions. Alaska isn’t for everyone. With beautiful mountains, the long winters can be particularly challenging, especially for those who desire surf and sun. But the rewards are fantastic, and there are so many hidden gems for the hiker, hunter, and fisher.
The interior of Alaska requires a special mindset. Experiencing several months of near darkness in the winter, Fort Wainwright, sits near the center of the interior. Situated adjacent to the city of Fairbanks, Fort Wainwright sports the 1st Stryker Brigade of the 25th Infantry Division with air and support assets. Just 30 minutes southeast, you will find the 354th Fighter Wing (354 FW) at Eielson Air Force Base (AFB). Both installations have numerous job offerings. With snowflakes possible much of the year, Fort Greely is a little farther east, offering high tech jobs in its anti-ballistic missile interceptor missiles program. Greely remains a cold weather training and testing facility for the military.
Farther to the south, with milder weather is the city of Anchorage. Along with Anchorage’s offering of slightly more sun, you will find many postings for future employment at Joint Base Elmendorf–Richardson (JBER). Here the 673rd Air Base Wing provides installation management for Elmendorf AFB’s 3rd Wing, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Richardson, and the 4th Brigade Combat Team (Airborne), 25th Infantry Division. Over 5,500 military and civilian personnel who “Support America’s Arctic Warriors and their families”.
All Work and No Play?
Most military, civil service, and contractors that pursue and find work in Alaska, love it. Why? There’s a tremendous opportunity to see nature in its spectacular glory!
You will want to check out Mid-Night Sun activities in the summer and the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race held every year during colder weeks. Both climbing and skiing are enjoyed year-round in some locations. Understanding that many desire to come to the Great White North for recreational activities, most units support hunting and fishing seasons.
Even better, there are a significant number of Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) activities and facilities. MWR traditionally has provided free events and services to military personnel around the world. However, in recent years, more individuals are now enjoying MWR facilities and offerings, to include civil servants and assigned contractors. Throughout Alaska, MWR supports holiday celebrations, sports, recreational activities, and entertainment. In addition, discount ticketing can be purchased for skiing, Seward Cruises, and the Alaska Railroad.
Throughout Alaska there are high-quality MWR facilities for camping, lodging, and many forms of recreation. Fort Wainwright offers Birch Hill Ski and Snow Board Area. U.S. Coast Guard Kodiak Alaska has MWR facilities along with Seward Resort not far from Anchorage, offering individuals rooms, townhomes, and log cabins, RV parking, campsites, and yurts!
