From the Navy to Decision Maker

SEEKING A PROFESSIONAL GOVERNMENT POSITION? A SECOND CAREER?

THE HOW

Like most soon to be veterans, after making the difficult decision to leave the military, I wasn’t exactly sure what I wanted to do. I knew I wanted to continue serving my country, outside of the uniform, and seeking a career with the US Government quickly became my goal. After completing my bachelor’s degree in business administration and HR Management, I set up a profile and uploaded my resume to USA Jobs and my search began. One of the first positions I found was a Revenue Officer with the IRS. The position described meeting with taxpayers to secure delinquent payments and returns. I thought to myself I surely can collect taxes and analyze financial data. Why not? I applied and heard back 6 months later, literally on the day I was to close on a new home in Florida.

THE NOW

Fast forward to today, I have over 20 years’ experience as a Revenue Officer. I worked myself up from a GS-7 Revenue Officer to a Senior Manager role with over 80 employees throughout five states. Going from the military to a civilian is challenging for most individuals. What I learned is never give up from your goals no matter what it is, stay persistent, and network by promoting yourself, ever heard of Linked In? The federal government is secure, rewarding, and provides some of the best benefits out there.

THE YOU

One of the most exciting opportunities is that hiring officials now have is what’s called Direct Hire Authority. This allows the agencies hiring officials to hire individuals from referrals or at hiring events located throughout the country. Why is this so awesome? For those that meet the minimum qualifications, an interview may be able to happen immediately, eliminating the complete hiring process on USA Jobs.