Hot Federal Jobs in 2006

— Will Kilburn

What are the hottest jobs in the federal government this year, and how do you get them? To find out, we asked Monster Federal Career Coach and Gov't/Public Service Careers message board expert Kathryn Troutman.

First on her list: Openings for criminal investigators and special agents at the FBI, National Security Agency (NSA), Border Patrol and US Marshals Service. Check them out if you are a new college grad or transitioning out of the military and under age 37.

In fact, skills developed in the armed forces transfer easily to a variety of federal jobs related to security and law enforcement. And former military employees, who typically must take a step backward to work in the private sector, can easily find upward career mobility with the federal government.

Not a military or law enforcement type? You'll find plenty of other appealing federal career opportunities in 2006. Excellent computer skills, administrative know-how or finance experience can propel you into a plum job.

In this Q&A, Troutman explains how to land the hot job that's best for you.

Are military skills more appreciated and understood in the public sector?

Yes, military skills and experience are very relevant, especially in the Department of Defense or the Department of Homeland Security. Military work involves security, teamwork and leadership -- all of which are essential to homeland security.

What are some hot jobs for people without a military background?

Go for administrative positions. Just be sure you have the right computer skills -- the ability to type 40-plus words a minute, database skills and customer service skills. Scheduling and conference coordination are a big part of these jobs. Also in demand are skills in accounting, finance and contract writing, because the government is the largest purchaser of goods in the world. You'll notice that many job announcements mention budgets, grants and finances.

Should federal job seekers detail their computer skills more than they would in the private sector?

Yes. You definitely need to know Excel. PowerPoint and Access are also important. Being trained in database work is big; taking a class in database administration would make you a very attractive candidate.

People mistakenly think that knowing how to use a computer will suffice. That's just not good enough for government. When I read vacancy announcements and see database work and information management listed, I know darn well they're going to be doing it with Excel. And if my clients say, "I don't know Excel," I'll tell them, "Go to school right now, or get a book out on Excel and start practicing it."

If you lack computer skills and want a federal job, take a class at a community college on the whole Microsoft suite, and concentrate on Excel, Outlook and calendar management.

You've talked previously about the stability of government pay. Has that changed?

The pay scale is set every year. It always goes up, never down. And federal benefits are generous by private-industry standards. The jobs are hard to get, but once you get one, you won't want to work anywhere else.

I'm seeing many career changers trying to get into government. I met with two flight attendants who want to work for the Transportation Security Administration or the Department of Transportation, where they can use their knowledge of the aviation industry and make more money.

This article originally appeared on Monster.com.

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