Should I work for the Federal Government?

Question

Hi:

I am currently getting ready to graduate college with an accounting degree here in May. In my job search I am considering the Federal Government as the Private sector generally centers recruitment efforts in the Fall.

I would easily qualify for the GS-7 payscale.

Only problem I have with the Federal Government is that they pay less than private companies here. I am wondering if benefits (health insurance, etc) and other items mitigate that gap?

Is it a wise choice to considering working for the Feds?

Thank you.

Answer 1

We have enjoyed it a lot. True, when you are starting out it seems that almost everyone is making more money than you (we even qualified for food stamps our first year). However, a person generally doesn't go to work for the government to get rich, they do it to be a part of a greater whole. To affect change in both themselves and their country.

We have been able to be a part of some incredible things that our country has gone through over the last 40 years and we have been able to see and participate in them both in the United States and in several other countries that we have been fortunate enough to work in. You learn a great deal about who you are and what your country means to the world when you live outside it, and you are changed forever.

You can work for 25 years, retire, and while you collect your retirement go to work somewhere else if you want, i.e. as a consultant - pay is great!

If you can handle it, go for it. It has been a very rewarding life for us.

Answer 2

If you are only interested in yourself, please do not apply to work for the government - there are enough self-serving bureaucrats on the payroll already. If you understand the true concept of Civil Service, and are interested in working towards the future and making this country a better place, then by all means, get your application in as soon as possible.

Different agencies offer different promotion and incentive programs and benefits. Although a GS-7 does not pay well, it is a foot in the door, and there are many opportunities for advancement. Take a look at the OPM website USAJOBS:

http://jobsearch.usajobs.opm.gov/jobsearch.asp?q=accounting&salmin=&salmax=&paygrademin=7&paygrademax=15&FedEmp=N&tm=&sort=rv&vw=d&brd=3876&ss=0&FedPub=Y&SUBMIT1.x=103&SUBMIT1.y=16

Answer 3

It all depends on what you want. Federal jobs offer health benefits, many paid holidays, they may take money our for the retimrement program with no vesting until after many years, and security.
A corporation offers higher salaries, optional 401K plan, health benefits, more paid time off (or flexibility of taking them), and some perks.

Answer 4

It wouldn't be my cup o'tea. But to each his own.

The benefits are excellent and difficult to beat, that's for sure. If you don't mind the rigid hierarchical structure and the political back-stabbing, it might just be right for you.

Answer 5

No take the private job.
Nuff freeloaders now.

Answer 6

That's like asking "gee, should I work for Satan?"

No.