Veteran Employment Resources
Veterans bring exceptional skills to the civilian workforce: leadership, discipline, technical expertise, and the ability to perform under pressure. Yet the transition from military to civilian employment can be challenging. Federal and state programs, combined with private sector initiatives, provide a robust support network for veterans seeking meaningful civilian careers. This guide covers every major employment resource available to veterans nationwide.
Federal Employment Programs
American Job Centers & Veterans Services
The Department of Labor funds Local Veterans' Employment Representatives (LVERs) and Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program (DVOP) specialists at American Job Centers (One-Stop Career Centers) in every state. These specialists provide intensive career counseling, job placement, and follow-up services. Veterans receive priority of service at all federally funded employment programs.
VA Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment (VR&E)
Chapter 31 VR&E provides career counseling, resume development, job training, education, and job placement for veterans with service-connected disabilities who face barriers to employment. Services can include assistive technology, independent living support, and self-employment assistance.
Federal Hiring Preferences
Veterans' Preference provides advantages in federal competitive hiring: 5 points for veterans, 10 points for disabled veterans. Additional hiring authorities include Veterans Recruitment Appointment (VRA), 30% or More Disabled Veteran authority, and Schedule A for severely disabled individuals. Search federal jobs at usajobs.gov.
State Hiring Preferences
Most states provide hiring preferences for veterans in state government positions. These range from point-based systems to absolute preference for qualified veterans. Many states also extend preferences to local government hiring. Select your state below for specific policies.
Skills Translation & Credentialing
Military occupational specialties don't always have direct civilian equivalents, but the skills transfer powerfully. Tools like the VA's Military Skills Translator and O*NET help map military experience to civilian careers. Many states have passed legislation to expedite recognition of military-earned professional licenses and certifications in healthcare, aviation, commercial driving, and other fields.
Veteran Entrepreneurship
The SBA's Office of Veterans Business Development provides resources for veteran entrepreneurs including Boots to Business training, Veterans Business Outreach Centers (VBOCs), and SCORE mentoring. Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Businesses (SDVOSBs) receive contracting preferences for federal procurement.
Employment Guides by State
Select a state to find specific employment resources and programs for veterans.