Where the Jobs Are
Current statistics report that up to 50% of the 1.6 million full-time federal employees could retire in the next five years—30% are fully eligible, and 20% qualify for early retirement. And 65% of the Senior Executive Service—the highest-ranking managers in federal agencies—is already eligible to retire. The opportunity to get great experience and move up quickly makes federal government an attractive career option. In addition, consulting firms are focusing on hiring employees with more direct experience in the fields for which they have clients, so even if you are interested in a private sector career, starting in the federal government is a good first step. Of course, public sector salaries will always lag behind private sector pay, but the lifestyle, benefits, and opportunity to serve all weigh favorably toward exploring PMF. For more information visit “Where the Jobs Are” at the Partnership for Public Service’s page: www.makingthediffernce.org.