When service members transition out of the military, many are eager to find a new mission—one that still allows them to serve their country. For thousands of veterans, that next chapter begins within the federal government. Whether it’s at the Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Treasury or the Department of Veterans Affairs, veterans continue to play a critical role in shaping national policy, safeguarding public interests and supporting their fellow Americans.
Natural Fit
According to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), veterans make up nearly 31% of the federal civilian workforce, with more than 635,000 veterans currently serving across agencies. That figure reflects a steady commitment to hiring those who’ve already proven their dedication through military service.
“Federal service and military service share a common foundation—discipline, teamwork and a commitment to mission,” said an OPM spokesperson in the agency’s Federal Employment Report. “Veterans bring leadership, adaptability and a result-oriented mindset that strengthens our government.”
Federal agencies have long recognized the value of those skills, not only for national defense but also for administration, cybersecurity, law enforcement and public health. For example, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) employs more than 56,000 veterans—one of the highest concentrations in the federal government. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is close behind, with one in three employees being veterans.
Purposeful Hiring
Programs like the Veterans Employment Opportunity Act (VEOA) and the Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA) make it easier for eligible veterans to apply for federal jobs that align with their experience. These initiatives provide hiring preference points and allow certain veterans to bypass the lengthy competitive hiring process.
For transitioning service members, this means their experience as a logistics officer, mechanic or communications specialist can directly translate into a civilian role in transportation management, IT systems or public affairs. Many of these opportunities are listed on USAJOBS.gov, the federal government’s official employment website.
The VA also runs a Veterans Employment Services Office (VESO), which partners with other agencies to ensure veterans receive fair access to federal career opportunities. Through resume workshops, interview coaching and mentorship programs, VESO helps veterans navigate federal hiring processes and tailor their military achievements to civilian job language.
Finding Meaning
Federal employment doesn’t just offer stability—it provides purpose. Many veterans describe their new roles as an extension of their oath to serve. Whether they’re processing disability claims at the VA, managing logistics for FEMA or supporting cybersecurity missions at the Department of Defense, they’re continuing to make a difference in the lives of Americans.
Former Army officer Michael Rios, now a program analyst at the U.S. Department of Energy, said his transition to government work gave him “a renewed sense of duty.”
“I missed the structure and teamwork of the Army,” Rios explained. “Working for a federal agency brings that back. You’re part of something bigger than yourself.”
That sense of purpose can make all the difference for veterans adjusting to civilian life. Federal careers often provide clear advancement paths, steady benefits and a sense of belonging—qualities that closely mirror military culture.
Career Growth
In recent years, the federal government has redoubled its efforts to attract and retain veteran talent. The Veterans Employment Initiative (VEI), launched by Executive Order 13518, continues to guide federal hiring strategies, ensuring agencies are accountable for meeting veteran employment goals.
OPM’s latest data shows substantial progress: veteran new hires now make up roughly 33% of all federal hires each year, up from just 25% a decade ago. Agencies are also introducing mentorship networks and veteran employee resource groups to support retention and career growth.
As the next generation of service members prepares to hang up their uniforms, opportunities in the federal government remain both accessible and meaningful. From managing cybersecurity threats to ensuring national parks thrive for future generations, veterans are helping the government run more effectively every day.
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