Why work for local government?

Considering a career upgrade in Washington local government, but need more encouragement? Catch these 10 reasons why you should do it:

1. Job security
   Working in government is generally acknowledged as stable, at least more stable than working for private industry. This is partly because government departments do so much and the services provided are important to a wide range of community members.

2. Competitive salaries
   Government salaries are generally commensurate with private industry, and in some cases better.

3. Steady retirement
   Most salaried government positions come with opportunities to invest in pensions, IRAs, 401(k)s, and may even include an employer match.

4. Great benefits
   Working for local government will likely allow access to a great health care package, vacation and sick leave, and often offers a variety of wellness opportunities—plus the great support of an HR department that can help answer questions.

5. Meaningful, challenging work
   Working for your local city or county is fulfilling work that can be constantly challenging. You will be called on to innovate and respond to the changing needs of your community.

6. Invest your efforts in your community
   Part of the joy of working in local government comes from responding to the needs of your community. Your time and energy goes toward making improvements in the lives of others.

7. See the results of your work
   Cities, towns, and counties are where the rubber meets the road. They’re where big plans boil down to boots on the ground. These are the places to work if you want to see the results of your labors implemented and having an impact around you and the people you love.

8. Learn how things really work
   Speaking of boots on the ground—if you ever wanted to see the voice of the people in action, working for the government is the place to be. Regardless of your role, you’ll get to see deep into the cogs and wheels that make things really happen in your community.

9. Discover new opportunities to learn, grow, and move up
   Government does a lot, and therefore requires a wide variety of employees to do a huge array of jobs. You’ll have access to continuing education opportunities, opportunities to learn from colleagues, and the chance to plan your career over a lifetime.

10. Meet lots of new and interesting people that help to build lasting friendships
    You’ll have a chance to meet people like you who care about the community and the people in it. Most government positions have strong and supportive workplace environments with opportunities to get to know (and love) your colleagues.

Don’t just take our word for it! Want to hear more about what it means to work in government? Check out these articles:

• Five reasons you might love working in local government | The Muse
• Top eight reasons to work for the fovernment | Careers in Government
• Working in government: Pros and cons | Indeed.com

 

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Cities are a great place to live, work, and thrive—and strong cities make a great state!

• There are 281 cities and towns in the state of Washington.
• Washington’s cities and towns employ more than 36,000 people, serving their community in positions like police officers and firefighters, planners, public works, parks and recreation, and administrative and management staff.
• Cities and towns employ 2/3 of Washington’s public safety personnel.
• The majority of Washington’s residents live in cities. In fact, more than 66% of the state’s population, a total of 5.2 million people live within city limits.