Public service is the act of serving a common good, and it can be found across a range of sectors including government (local, state, and federal), education, non-governmental organizations, and philanthropic organizations. A desire to help people is a compelling reason to consider a career in public service, but it’s important to understand that the field is broad and can include many different jobs and types of work.
The most traditional definition of public service is government-related, but today’s world has shifted to define a “new public sector,” which includes careers that contribute directly to the public good in a variety of ways. The common view is that careers in which employees are dedicated to public interest come before personal interests, and those who serve the public deserve a fair amount of recognition.
Regardless of the specific role, most jobs in public service require some postsecondary training, often in the form of a bachelor’s degree or higher. Some positions, such as those in law enforcement or emergency medical services, may also be physically or mentally demanding and require a strong work ethic.
Most positions in the field offer competitive wages and excellent benefits, such as separate vacation and sick days, federal holidays, health insurance, and retirement plans. Some, like the National Institutes of Health, also offer student loan repayment if you work in certain positions for 10 years or more. It’s important to research these opportunities to learn what education and experience will be required for your career goals.