Federal Agencies Leading in Veteran Employment
The federal government employs over 600,000 veterans — roughly 30% of the total federal workforce. But some agencies hire veterans at significantly higher rates and have programs specifically designed to recruit and advance veteran employees.
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
It should be no surprise: the VA's mission is veterans, and it actively recruits veteran employees at all levels. Clinical and administrative roles are available across the country.
- Job types: Health care, IT, administration, benefits claims, mental health
- Veteran employee rate: Among the highest in the federal government
- Website: VA.gov/jobs
Department of Defense (DoD)
The DoD employs more civilians than any other agency. Many positions are directly related to military operations, maintenance, logistics, and contracting.
- Job types: Intelligence, logistics, engineering, finance, HR, acquisition
- Security clearance: Required for many positions — a major advantage for veterans
- Website: USAJobs.gov (search "Department of Defense")
Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
DHS agencies including CBP, TSA, ICE, and FEMA are strong veteran employers. Many roles directly use military training and experience.
- CBP Border Patrol Agent: Actively recruits veterans; military experience substitutes for some requirements
- FEMA: Emergency management is a natural fit for veterans with logistics and leadership backgrounds
- TSA: Veterans receive hiring preference and accelerated advancement
Department of Justice (DOJ)
The FBI, DEA, ATF, and Bureau of Prisons all hire veterans at high rates.
- FBI: Military intelligence, language, and investigative backgrounds are highly valued
- Federal Bureau of Prisons: Correctional Officer positions offer strong benefits and pension
Intelligence Community (IC)
The NSA, CIA, DIA, and other IC agencies actively recruit veterans — particularly those with security clearances, intelligence backgrounds, and foreign language skills.
United States Postal Service (USPS)
USPS has a long history of veteran employment. Veterans receive preference in hiring and many postal supervisors are veterans.
State Department
Veterans with overseas experience, language skills, and cultural competency are increasingly valued by the State Department.
Tips for Targeting Your Agency Search
- Search USAJobs.gov by agency name
- Look for "Schedule A" and "VRA (Veterans Recruitment Appointment)" hiring authorities — these allow agencies to hire veterans non-competitively
- Attend veteran-focused federal job fairs
- Contact the Veterans Employment Coordinator at your target agency (every major agency has one)
Your clearance alone can open doors that take civilians years to walk through.