Frequent moves offer the perfect opportunity to have a career that relocates with you. Planning ahead and using skills you already have can help you find a rewarding, portable career. Resources such as the Spouse Education and Career Opportunities program can help you:
- Identify portable skills you already have
- Learn more about options available to you as you move
- Take charge of your career
One of the challenges military spouses face during relocation is finding employment in their area of training, education or interest. Thanks to technology, today there are more portable career options than ever. As a military spouse, you can further your personal and career goals through portable occupations.
Read More »
Here are some possibilities to explore:
- Accounting
- Customer service/support
- Sales
- Technical service
- Transcription
- Fundraising
- Grant writing
- Editorial and content writing
- Marketing
- Creative services
- Web design
- Programming
- Social media
- Public relations
Plan ahead
When you're married to a service member, you know change is always part of the plan. Do your research and use your resources to pursue a rewarding career that you can take with you as you move. Focus on high growth, high demand fields that will have value wherever you move with the military. The Industry Competency Models has information about foundational and technical skills you'll need in a variety of industries. You can use the Occupational Outlook Handbook website to search keywords and find the kind of job that works for you.
Develop your portable skills
Thanks to technology, many of your traditional job skills can now be used in a job that moves with you. Examples of portable skills include management, technology, organizational and communication.
The skills related to your talents and interests can also be portable: photography, culinary arts, interior design and childcare are examples. Developing these skills can be helpful to finding employment and building your portable career.
Consider working for yourself
Self-employment is an option if you prefer to keep a flexible schedule while working. There are a lot of legitimate work-from-home options; however, you need to do your research to determine what will work for you and your family. Some jobs require some training or certifications, many of which you can obtain online. A few ideas to consider are:
- Trade show/product presenter
- Online tutor
- Application developer
- Virtual assistant
- Fitness instructor
- Technical support
- Researcher
- Website design/development
Learn more about self-employment or independent contracting by visiting the U.S. Small Business Association website.
Where to find portable jobs
The Military Spouse Employment Partnership website has lists of open positions from members focused on portable career opportunities for transitioning military spouses. Many Military Spouse Employment Partnership companies offer virtual jobs in customer service, legal, accounting, counseling and other positions. Make sure to identify yourself as a military spouse when you apply for a position with a Military Spouse Employment Partnership company.
Spouse Education and Career Opportunities counselors are ready to help you with career exploration, education, training, and licensing, employment readiness and career connections. Call 800-342-9647, or visit the Military OneSource/SECO website to learn more.