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 
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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.