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Find a Job You Really Want In
When considering career paths, many individuals underestimate the vast opportunities available within civil service roles. Civil service jobs are often misunderstood, leading to their underutilization. However, these positions provide not only competitive salaries but also exceptional benefits and pathways for professional growth.
This article delves into the diverse landscape of civil service careers, highlighting high-paying positions across various sectors. If you’re exploring civil service jobs and wondering which might align with your skills and aspirations, you’ve come to the right place.
Key Takeaways:
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Prominent civil service positions include registered nurses, IT specialists, and patent attorneys.
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A civil service job entails employment with a government agency at the local, state, or federal level.
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Civil service roles come with excellent benefits, including retirement plans and job security.
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Many civil service positions offer salaries comparable to those in the private sector.
Top 20 Civil Service Jobs in 2026
Civil service positions extend far beyond mere alternatives to private sector employment; they provide unique benefits that can greatly enhance your career satisfaction.
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Registered Nurse
Average Annual Salary: $75,000Many healthcare professionals opt for civil service employment over private clinics and hospitals. As a registered nurse, you will assess patient health concerns and deliver necessary care.
Work environments range widely, allowing you to choose positions in large VA hospitals or contribute to public health initiatives.
Nursing remains one of the most sought-after careers, with strong demand across the country.
Requirements: Registered nurses typically follow one of three educational paths: a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), or a diploma from an accredited nursing program. Licensure is mandatory in the state where you practice.
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Civil Executive
Average Annual Salary: N/ALike the private sector, government agencies require management roles to lead teams and make strategic decisions. Civil executives play a crucial role in effecting change within government operations.
Your responsibilities may include managing personnel, communicating with stakeholders, and evaluating operational processes.
Civil executives are needed across all sectors, including legal, administrative, and technological fields.
Requirements: Leadership experience in either the public or private sector is essential. Positions may be appointed or elected, necessitating a strong qualifications background.
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Intelligence Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $80,000Intelligence analysts are tasked with gathering and analyzing data critical to national security and international relations.
You will prepare reports and presentations to guide policymakers in diplomatic and economic matters.
Requirements: Entry-level training and certifications such as Criminal Intelligence Certified Analyst (CICA) or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) are often necessary, along with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in relevant fields.
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Law Enforcement Officer (LEO)
Average Annual Salary: $50,000Law enforcement officers represent one of the most recognized civil service careers, ensuring public safety and enforcing laws at local, state, and federal levels.
Roles vary widely and may include:
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Local Police Officer
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Civil Prosecutor
Requirements: Officers typically complete training at a police academy and may hold a bachelor’s degree. Approximately 50% of law enforcement officers possess a bachelor’s degree.
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Elementary School Teacher
Average Annual Salary: $55,000Elementary teachers play a vital role in shaping the future by educating children from kindergarten to fifth grade.
In addition to teaching general subjects, you may specialize in areas such as special education.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in education is required, along with state certification or licensure.
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Administrative Assistant
Average Annual Salary: $40,000Administrative assistants support other civil service employees by managing records, facilitating hiring processes, and overseeing labor management.
Requirements: While many administrative assistants hold bachelor’s degrees, entry-level roles may be available to those with a high school diploma or GED.
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Information Technology (IT) Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $80,000IT specialists maintain technical systems and security protocols critical for government operations.
Roles may involve troubleshooting, implementing new systems, or enhancing data security.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically required, although extensive experience may suffice in some cases.
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Finance Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $75,000Finance analysts evaluate financial data and assist government agencies in budget management.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is typically necessary, while advanced positions may require a master’s degree.
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Chief Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $100,000Chief engineers manage technical projects and oversee engineering teams within government agencies.
Job-specific duties depend on the agency and projects assigned, often requiring a degree in engineering.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in engineering is typically required, with a master’s degree or extensive experience being advantageous.
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General Statistician/Mathematician Statistician
Average Annual Salary: $70,000Statisticians analyze data for public agencies, informing critical governmental decisions.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in mathematics, statistics, or a related field is typically required, with many positions preferring advanced degrees.
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Nurse Anesthetist
Average Annual Salary: $185,000Nurse anesthetists administer anesthesia and play a vital role in surgical procedures.
Most positions are with the Veteran’s Health Administration, requiring extensive education and clinical training.
Requirements: A master’s degree in anesthesia and national certification are mandatory.
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Patent Attorney
Average Annual Salary: $100,000Patent attorneys work with the United States Patent and Trademark Office to shape patent policy and advise on legal matters.
Requirements: A law degree and passing the Bar exam are required, along with technical expertise in relevant fields.
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Patent Administrator
Average Annual Salary: N/APatent administrators assess and process patent applications, often coming from engineering or technical backgrounds.
Requirements: A degree in engineering or a related field is preferred, although extensive experience can substitute for formal education.
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Securities Compliance Examiner
Average Annual Salary: N/AThese examiners ensure compliance with regulations within financial sectors, especially after increased scrutiny following economic crises.
Requirements: Typically, a bachelor’s degree in finance or accounting is required, with many coming from CPA backgrounds.
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Program Manager
Average Annual Salary: $95,000Program managers oversee government projects, ensuring they meet strategic goals and budgets.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is common, with many program managers holding advanced degrees and significant leadership experience.
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Astronomy and Space Sciences Director
Average Annual Salary: $150,000Directors in this field work with NASA and other organizations on cutting-edge space research and exploration.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in physics, math, or a related discipline is required, with many pursuing advanced degrees.
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Chemist
Average Annual Salary: $65,000Chemists are in demand within federal agencies focused on public health and environmental safety.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field is standard, while advanced positions often require higher degrees.
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Software Engineer
Average Annual Salary: $90,000Software engineers develop and maintain applications for government agencies, ensuring they meet contemporary cybersecurity standards.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field is typically required, with many holding advanced degrees.
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Technical Systems Program Manager
Average Annual Salary: N/AThese managers work with agencies like the FAA to enforce safety standards at airports.
Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is often required, with a preference for candidates with a master’s degree.
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Administrative Law Judge
Average Annual Salary: $75,000Judges in this role handle claims against government programs, ensuring regulatory compliance and fair hearings.
Requirements: A law degree and over seven years of legal experience are typically necessary.
What are Civil Service Jobs?
Civil service jobs refer to positions within government agencies at the local, state, or federal level.
The range of available civil service jobs is nearly as expansive as in the private sector, with opportunities suited to various backgrounds and specialties.
This includes positions that are often not associated with public service, such as accountants, software engineers, and public relations professionals.
Civil service jobs offer numerous benefits that make them attractive career options beyond merely filling gaps left by private sector roles.
Benefits typically include:
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Healthcare insurance
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Retirement funding
Moreover, civil service jobs provide:
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Job Security: Civil service roles are among the most stable employment options available, offering protection against economic downturns and downsizing.
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Competitive Pay: Salaries for civil service positions are often comparable to or exceed those in the private sector, with transparent systems for raises based on tenure.
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Streamlined Application Process: While there isn’t a centralized source for local agency jobs, the USAJOBS website provides an accessible platform for federal job listings with detailed descriptions and application instructions.
Civil Servant Jobs FAQ
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What jobs can you get with a civil service exam?
The civil service exam opens doors to various professions across government sectors. This includes administrative roles, law enforcement, healthcare, and engineering, allowing access to positions like police officers, administrative assistants, and healthcare administrators.
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What are civil service jobs and how do they differ from private sector roles?
Civil service jobs are roles within government organizations focused on delivering essential public services. These positions emphasize stability, competitive benefits, and a sense of purpose, contrasting with the profit-driven nature of private sector jobs.
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What are the highest paying civil service jobs?
Civil service careers offer numerous well-paying options. High-paying roles include judges, senior executives in government agencies, engineering managers, IT directors, and medical specialists, all of which provide avenues for making a meaningful societal impact.
- Fields
- Types Of Engineering
- Types Of Lawyers
- Types Of It Jobs
- Jobs In Travel
- Best Airport Jobs
- Best Overnight Jobs
- Temp Jobs
- Jobs In Mental Health
- Union Jobs
- Civil Service Jobs
- Grocery Store Jobs
- The Most Common Jobs In America
- Summer Jobs
- Types Of Doctors
- Is Technology A Good Career Path
- Cannabis Industry Jobs
- Careers In Writing
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
