Spouse Employment Resources for Military Leaders

Military leaders are fortunate to have spouse employment resources readily available to military family members.   Leaders should be aware of these vital resources and ensure that these programs and services are highlighted during unit readiness briefs and command sponsored orientations or indoctrinations.

Military OneSource

Military OneSource is a comprehensive service provided for military members and their families designed to assist with virtually any quality of life question they may have. It is especially useful to families who live too far away to reach installation services or for those who wish to gain additional services based on their personal needs. With regard to employment, Military OneSource can help identify local resources, perform a local search for employment agencies that specialize in personal career interests, find local newspapers that advertise job opportunities, and provide lists of online websites that describe local job opportunities. The website also includes articles and resources related to finding a job or career building.

To reach Military OneSource by phone: Stateside: 1-800-342-9647, Overseas Collect: 1-703-253-7599.

MilSpouse eMentor Program

The MilSpouse eMentor Program, created by the Academy of Women in partnership with the United States Chamber of Commerce, provides a virtual career building network for military spouses. Mentors and spouses can register and connect online, creating a national and international support pipeline that extends far beyond the spouse's current duty station. A wide range of participation levels is offered,  from forming one-to-one ongoing mentoring relationships to simply responding to or posting questions in group discussion forums.

Installation Support

Many installations have a family support center that offers professional family member employment readiness training and support services.  Staff members are knowledgeable about employment opportunities aboard the base and in the surrounding community to include federal employment, nonappropriated fund employment, and opportunities with defense contractors providing products or services that support that installation's mission. 

Installation-based Employment Assistance programs provide job search training and assistance, and serve as a source of information for local job fairs and job search databases.  Training and other support services for spouses may include:

• resume writing
• skills assessment
• career interests assessment
• access to computers and the Internet
• individual counseling and career planning
• job search skills
• information about local job listings
• career seminars
• support and encouragement

Additional Links

• Links to Branch Support Services
• Links to Additional Resources