New Squidex article posted on April 3 2025

Resource New Squidex article posted on April 3 2025

Working at a local, county, or state government agency can be very rewarding. From receiving premium medical benefits, enjoying job security, and contributing to the greater good of society, it's no wonder that people seek out government employment. Of course, it's not for everyone. If stock options, using the latest technology, and a workplace with a game room is what gets your engine running, then a job in the government isn't right for you. But, there are enough people who want to work in government, that it can take some effort to land a job there. If you've considered the trade-offs of giving up corporate America for the prospect of serving your community, here are 10 tips for finding a job in local government. 

1. Only apply for jobs where you meet the minimum qualifications. 99 out of 100 times, you will not be considered for a position if you do not meet the minimum requirements listed on the job posting. The private sector is much more lenient when it comes to lowering their standards for a position, but that's not the case in the public sector. So, if you don't have the skills needed or the experience required, don't waste your time completing what is likely to be a long application. The chances that the human resources department will make an exception and consider you because you have other impressive talents are slim to none.

Bonus tip: On Governmentjobs.com, you will find some jobs that have a tab titled "Questions." These supplemental questions help recruiters efficiently weed out candidates that don't meet the minimum qualifications. So, when you see a job with these questions, make sure you read through them first to ensure you qualify, before you start the application. 

2. Complete every field on the application and review it for typos or errors. It is very easy to be disqualified from the government hiring process, so make sure you set enough time aside to apply to jobs. Don't assume that you can submit ten resumes in an hour like you can for a private sector job. Public sector jobs usually have an application you must complete in addition to providing your resume. If you are serious about finding a job in government, schedule several hours at a time to focus on applying for jobs and make sure you have your dates of past employment handy. 

3. Work your network. Some government jobs receive over a hundred applicants for a single opening. Even if you're qualified and make the eligible list, you may not get an interview. But if you know someone who can refer you, then you'll have an advantage. Go to LinkedIn and find out who in your network either works in a local government agency or is connected to someone who works in a local government agency and look at the online job postings where they work. If you see a position you're qualified for, ask them to refer or introduce you via email to the hiring manager. Remember to make sure you meet the list of required qualifications before asking. Since you can only pull that lever a few times, it's best to reserve your favors for the jobs where you are undoubtedly eligible.