How to Find Jobs in State and Local Government
Local and State Jobs Continue to Hire Despite Downturn in Economy
Mar 4, 2009
Even as the economy stumbles into a deeper recession, jobs are still being created. Because of a number of factors including the retirement of the baby boom generation and an increase in demand for social services, state and local governments continue to add workers.
Where are Jobs in State and Local Government Located?
While the majority of jobs in state government are located in the state’s capital city, they are also found across the state. For example, state Parks and Recreation Departments have offices in urban and rural areas of the state. State Employment Commissions also have offices throughout the state.
State government jobs are also found in universities, public schools, and state police offices.
Local government jobs are found in cities, counties, and public schools and include clerks, accountants, information technology professionals, teachers, landscapers, janitors, attendants, purchasing managers, and human resources professionals.
Finding Jobs in State and Local Government
The best way to find state and local government jobs is through the web. The user can access state and local jobs through individual state websites (e.g., texas.gov, maryland.gov). However, one website features direct links to employment pages for all 50 states: The Internet Job Source.
- Point the web browser to The Internet Job Source. A yellow interactive U.S. map displays on the page.
- Click the respective state to search for state and local government jobs. The state’s Job Source page displays.
- The very first listing under the State Government Jobs heading should be a link to state’s official page for their government job listings. For pages that appear differently, simply find the link to Government Jobs In (state), typically located in the top left corner of the page.
- For local jobs, click any link that says, “City of” or “County of.”
How to Apply for State and Local Government Jobs
The application process varies greatly between state and local government jobs. Depending on the position, most states require the applicant to download, print, and complete an official application form. Others may require a simple resume.
Key elements of the application process to be aware of are the opening and closing dates, requirements of the position, and selective placement factors. Also be aware of the salary grade and type of appointment (e.g., full-time vs. part-time).
The “How to Apply” section is very important to read carefully. This section lays out all forms and attachments the candidate needs to submit with his or her application. Other state government job announcements require testing and/or responses to supplemental questions.
Things to Consider when Applying to Jobs in State and Local Government
Like the U.S. Government, state government jobs are generally bureaucratic and more resistant to creativity and change than jobs in the private sector. Furthermore, pay is generally lower than similar positions outside of state or local government.
State and local government jobs are found in every city in the United States. The Internet Job Source website simplifies the search for state and local government jobs.
While the application process is generally more time consuming than applying for jobs in the private sector, state and local government jobs generally afford greater stability along with a good benefits package.
See related articles, “How to Find Jobs in the U.S. Government," “Top 6 Job Search Engines,” and "4 Websites That Offer Work at Home Virtual Jobs."
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