Things are looking up for veterans interested in working for the federal government in a civilian capacity. In FY 2014, veteran new hires hit an all-time high of 33.2 percent for federal jobs. And according to a recent Gallup survey, federal workers are better off financially than non-federal workers.
After interviewing more than 80,000 people, the survey found that 44 percent of federal workers are financially thriving as opposed to 34 percent of non-federal workers. The survey also found that only 17 percent of federal workers are financially suffering while non-federal workers clock in at 24 percent. The survey considered not only salary, but also things like perceived standards of living and financial anxiety when determining financial well-being.
So right now you’re probably thinking two things. The first is – where can I find a government job? The second is – can I avoid Washington D.C.? Fortunately for you, you can find a government job almost anywhere.
The top five
For the record, the highest percentage of federal civilian employees is definitely in the D.C., Maryland, Virginia area with about 15 percent of the total federal civilian population working there. But there are also other areas that have high percentages of federal employees. For example, Texas and California each have about 7-8 percent of the total federal civilian population working in their states.
It should come as no surprise that both states have significant civilian employment opportunities with the Department of Defense. Not only does Texas support the monstrous Fort Hood, but there are also about 20 additional military bases throughout the state. California supports around 40 military bases for every branch of the Armed Forces, including a number of Department of Homeland Security positions.
Not just DoD – Other Agencies Hiring
Federal agencies hiring include the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Agriculture. As far as positions go, there’s a high demand in the health care field as well as administrative services, social sciences, engineering and even food preparation and service.
Another state that has a decent chunk of the federal civilian population? Florida, which rings in with about 4.5 percent. In the sunshine state, you’ll find more job opportunities with the DoD and the Department of Veterans Affairs. There’s also a high demand for health care employees as well as opportunities for those interested in biological sciences and administrative positions.
The unlikely suspects – Pennsylvania to Utah
A couple of places you may not have considered at all are New York, Pennsylvania, Georgia, Ohio and Utah. While these states may not be the first that come to mind when you think of federal jobs, they each have numerous federal employment opportunities. Most positions are related back to the DoD and the VA, but there are also opportunities within the Departments of Agriculture, Homeland Security, Justice and Treasury.
With the number of veterans being hired continuing to increase, along with the overall financial well-being of many federal employees, it’s definitely worth considering federal civilian service when conducting your job search. And with so many options across the country, it’s possible to pick your future job based not only on your qualifications, but also where you’d actually like to live.
