Veterans may have access to free employment services that can help with finding a civilian job, preparing a resume, learning new skills, connecting with employers, and planning a new career. The U.S. Department of Labor provides veteran employment services through a nationwide network of more than 2,400 American Job Centers. Veterans and eligible spouses can also receive priority of service in many federally funded employment and training programs.
Whether you are leaving the military, changing careers, unemployed, or looking for a job that better matches your military experience, several programs may be available.
Who May Qualify for Veteran Employment Assistance
Employment programs can serve Veterans at different stages of their careers. Some programs also assist transitioning service members and eligible spouses. You may find assistance if you are:
- A recently separated Veteran
- Looking for your first civilian job
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Changing careers
- Looking for work after a long employment gap
- A Veteran with a service-connected disability
- Interested in apprenticeships or career training
- Looking for federal employment
- Interested in starting a business
Eligibility and available services vary by program and location.
Check What You May Qualify For
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Programs vary based on your military service, location, employment situation, disability status, and career goals.
Types of Veteran Employment Assistance
- American Job Centers. American Job Centers provide job search, employment referrals, training information, career services, and other workforce assistance. Veterans receive priority of service in federally funded employment and training programs. Many centers also have specialists who specifically work with Veterans, including Disabled Veterans' Outreach Program specialists and Local Veterans' Employment Representatives.
- Resume and job search help. Veterans may need help translating military experience into language civilian employers understand. Employment specialists can help with resumes, job searches, applications, interviews, and identifying careers that match military skills. CareerOneStop also provides tools for Veterans to match military experience with civilian occupations and find local employment resources.
- Career counseling. Career counseling can help Veterans identify transferable skills, explore different occupations, choose training, and develop a realistic employment plan. VA's Personalized Career Planning and Guidance program can provide educational and career counseling, resume support, and assistance finding training or employment opportunities.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment. Veterans with qualifying service-connected disabilities may be eligible for Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E). Depending on the Veteran's needs, VR&E can provide job counseling, resume development, work-readiness support, job placement assistance, training, education, apprenticeships, and other employment services. VR&E has different tracks, including Rapid Access to Employment, Reemployment, Self-Employment, and Long-Term Services.
- Federal government jobs. Some Veterans may qualify for Veterans' Preference when applying for federal jobs. Veterans' Preference can provide eligible applicants with an advantage in the federal hiring process, although it does not guarantee a job. Veterans can also explore special federal hiring authorities that may apply to certain eligible Veterans.
- Apprenticeships and on-the-job training. Apprenticeships can provide practical experience while the Veteran learns a trade or occupation. Some Veteran programs can also connect eligible individuals with training and employment opportunities. These options can be particularly useful for Veterans who want a career that does not require a traditional four-year college degree.
How Veteran Employment Assistance Typically Works
- Identify your employment goal. Decide whether you need a job now, career training, a career change, or help translating military experience.
- Review available Veteran services. Look at VA, Department of Labor, state, and local workforce programs.
- Connect with an employment specialist. American Job Centers may have staff specifically assigned to help Veterans.
- Prepare your resume and applications. Translate military duties and skills into civilian job qualifications.
- Search for suitable jobs or training.
- Use additional services if needed. These may include career counseling, training, apprenticeships, or disability-related employment support.