Careers in government and international affairs

Occupations in Government and Public Administration career area relate to planning and performing functions at the local, state and federal levels.

Positions with public organizations have high job quality. They often offer job security, and good employee compensation packages that include health insurance, professional development, tuition benefits, paid time off, livable wage salaries, and more.  

City, county, state and federal government agencies employ every type of position, from accountants to zoologists. A primary goal of positions in public service is to improve the quality of life for citizens and to create and maintain thriving communities.

Government offices administer programs and services responsible for:

• arts and cultural expression
• business and industry regulations
• employment and economic supports
• health and safety
• housing
• human services
• parks and recreation
• passing laws and ordinances
• police and fire departments
• public education (K-12, postsecondary and adult)
• taxation and budgets

In addition to familiar occupations, this career area includes the military. Military positions vary – some mirror civilian occupations, others are specific to military operations.

Elected officials are also included in the Government and International Affairs career area. Elected officials create laws and oversee government operations at different levels like school boards, city councils, committees, legal courts, and legislatures.