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What are the pros and cons of working for the federal government vs. the private sector?


I just graduated with a four year degree, however after only a few months with a private company I find it incredibly unrewarding. I found several job postings within the DoD that I find more interesting, but I always hear negative things about working for the the federal government... Any advice? Thanks!

I highly recommend federal employment. Each agency is different, but the career ladder is definitely there. Depending on the job series, the promotion potential is already built in. The pros and cons really depend upon the type of job, which federal agency, geographic location of worksite, and the atmosphere of your office. The federal agency that I work for is GREAT. Go to usajobs.gov and definitly apply. Source(s): Employee of Environmental Protection Agency
Pension, benefits and some job security. Always a good resume builder when the Feds trust you to work for them. Not to mention, DoD employees can make use of a lot of vacation perks (discounts at some really incredible facilities throughout the world), use of military facilities like a PX or Commissary, etc. (depending on the position). There's also room for advancement - and quick advancement at that. Best of luck!
Generally they have good benefits due to Federal policy/requirements. In many positions you can get a pension whereas you will be hard pressed to find such a benefit in the private sector these days.

Possible negatives is you don't necessarily see the drive for getting things done as quick as private sector companies, because things can always get pushed back. Not always the case everywhere, but I know it does go on in NASA and other places.

Also, because the retirement benefits are good, some people just stay so they can retire even if they don't care about the job, so you might have to work with people that don't have an urgency to get things done. If you collect years in the government you may be entitled to certain retirement benefits, but if you leave before retirement you get nothing. If you were in private sector you carry over 401k and stocks benefits with you.
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