Government Jobs That Pay Well and Offer Great Benefits

Sophia Belnap

Government jobs offer security, benefits, and competitive pay. The pay and benefits vary by governing branch. When thinking about government employment, many people think of county workers approving benefits or those who work at the Department of Motor Vehicles. But the truth is government employment reaches far beyond those workers you see and interact with while out in public. There are many organizations and departments within the government. The government is the largest employer in the United States.

All branches of the government are Equal Opportunity Employers and do not discriminate in their hiring. Some positions, like civilian employment, may require passing an exam or having certain certifications or a specific degree. Many entry-level government positions award preference to military veterans. Here is a sampling of government positions that offer competitive pay, stability, and some surprising fringe benefits.

Court Bailiff

A Court Bailiff is a law enforcement officer. These employees work primarily inside the courtroom of either a federal, state, or the county courthouse. They sweep and secure the courtroom and screen everyone entering, including attorneys, witnesses, and court reporting Honolulu for proper identification. Most buildings have metal detectors at the entrance, though in some cases, the bailiff may perform an individual search for weapons. The bailiff is responsible for restoring order and keeping everyone safe. 

Most bailiffs have law enforcement degrees. The branch of government sets the pay structure. These positions offer retirement plans and medical, dental, and life insurance. As a little-known perk, since it is the bailiff's responsibility to ensure the jurors do not communicate with anyone outside the pool, they get to dine with the jurors at restaurants and stay in hotel rooms paid for by the government. 

Public School Teacher

Every city, state, and local community needs school teachers. These positions require a teaching degree, but the opportunities are many. Public schools offer competitive starting pay, and as teachers add to their education, they provide significant pay increases. These government employees generally have good pension plans, medical, dental, and life insurance. Most teachers have the summer's off and work day hours.

Mail Carrier

Working for the US Postal Service requires passing an initial exam. For entry-level positions, there are no requirements for college. Carrier positions do require a valid driver's license and a good driving record. The pay is good, and there are plenty of opportunities for advancement. These positions are located throughout the United States. The US Postal Service positions are considered quasi-federal, and pay is set through the union negotiations. Benefits include a pension plan, health and life insurance, and opportunities for advancement for even those without college degrees.

Forest Ranger

Forest Rangers are located throughout the United States and require a college degree in Forestry Management. They can be federal or state positions. They offer competitive pay, health, dental, and pension plans. These positions are generally located in a specific region. Forest Rangers typically work outside. For those who enjoy the outdoors, these jobs are a perfect fit.

Engineer With the US Corp of Engineers

If you enjoy working on designing the country's waterways, this is the position for you. The Corp of Engineers protects our waterways and designs new systems, dredges riverbeds, and monitors environmental regulations. An engineer with the corp can expect competitive pay with federal health, life, dental, and pension plans. Civil engineering degrees are required.

VA Nurses and Doctors

Nurses and doctors employed at Veterans Administration (VA) medical facilities receive competitive pay and full government benefits. The VA does offer preference to military veterans. These positions are located throughout the United States. These are federal positions and have full federal benefits. Working with the country's veterans can be quite rewarding.

Conclusion

The government hires for all types of jobs. These jobs can be found on some job boards, the USAjobs.gov website, or directly at the agency website that you are looking to apply to. All government jobs have good benefits, and some have some attractive side benefits. When doing a job search, don't discount the government and its many openings.