Your Guide to Landing a Government Job Without a Degree

A government job without a degree is a position with the U.S. government that does not require the applicant to have a college education or degree. While having a degree can help you stand out among other candidates when applying to competitive government jobs, a degree is not always a requirement. There are many positions that don’t require any formal tertiary education. However, highlighting your strengths and specific skills that relate to these positions can help you land a government job. Some of the available government jobs can also help you further develop skills that can earn you an even higher position with the U.S. government.

Finding a government job without a degree may require a more in-depth search. You can get a government job without a degree with the following steps:

1. First, make a list of your strengths and experiences: It can be helpful to first, consider your strengths and experiences that will set you apart from other candidates when applying to government jobs. Consider what careers you will do well in and which you will enjoy. Make a list of your top skills that you bring to a position, as well as how they will help in a government position.
2. Then, search for government jobs: Once you have an idea of what makes you a competitive candidate, then it is time to search for open positions. While you may not yet be ready to apply, it can be helpful to get an idea of what each position requires. This can help you develop a plan to work on certain skills you need.
3. Then, evaluate the requirements of each job: A job description will usually list the specific requirements they are seeking. If a college degree is required, they will list that too. It can also be helpful to know the different categories of government jobs. A GS-1 position is one that does not have any prior educational requirements. A GS-2 position is one that requires a minimum of a high school diploma. Both GS-3 and GS-4 positions are for candidates with some college experience, but with no degree. The completion of even a few college courses can make you a more competitive candidate.
4. Then, customize your resume and cover letter to meet the job you want: Your cover letter should specifically list the position in which you are applying. In your resume, be sure to include specific skills and tasks that will help you succeed in the position. You can stand out by highlighting specific skills or experiences that they listed in the job description.
5. Then, take the civil service exam: Most government jobs require that you successfully complete the civil service exam. You will have to sign up for an open test date. Then, you’ll want to begin studying and preparing for the test. Some candidates may find study guides to be helpful. Once you pass the test, your name is added to a list of potential candidates for open positions.
6. Finally, apply for open positions: Once you have completed the test and designed your resume for a government position, you are ready to apply for open positions. This is also a good time to review your interview skills and if necessary, practice with mock interviews. You may also turn to a professional to help you prepare for your upcoming government interview.

Landing a government job without a degree will take some planning and preparation. In addition to the testing requirements, you will need to find additional ways that set you apart from other applicants.

Here are a few top government jobs that don’t require a degree:

Library assistant

Average base pay: $24,960 per year

Library assistants work in a library setting, assisting a head librarian. They may be responsible for organizing databases, keeping an inventory, or lending books to visitors. The library assistant may also work at the circulation desk, where they help visitors find resources or circulations. Working as a library assistant, you will usually learn the necessary skills on the job.

Financial clerk

Average base pay: $25,681 per year

Financial clerks complete administrative tasks related to finance, in the courthouse. They collect payments and issue bills. They are also tasked with keeping accurate, organized records of things like inmate bonds and payments. Financial clerks may also mail out invoices or record incoming payments. While a degree is not required to work as a financial clerk, a background in finance is helpful.

Learn more: How to Get a Job as a Financial Analyst

Data entry clerk

Average base pay: $34,000 per year

Data entry clerks complete administrative and clerical supportive tasks in a government building. They are responsible for filing and organizing official documents. They may also collect additional data and update online databases, including inmate statuses or contact information. Data entry clerks are also responsible for following confidentiality policies. Candidates interested in working as a data entry clerk will need good organizational skills.

Correctional officer

Average base pay: $36,495 per year

Correctional officers enforce policies and regulations in a correctional facility. They are in charge of the direct supervision of inmates, ensuring that the facility follows state and federal laws, and maintains the safety of all inmates. Previous experience is not always needed to work as a correctional officer, but good physical stamina and work ethics are needed in this position.

Administrative assistant

Average base pay: $44,285 per year

Administrative assistants complete administrative support tasks in a government setting. They may provide assistance to certain staff members, or they may provide clerical support to a whole office. Their daily tasks may include answering phones, recording messages, scheduling appointments, or answering questions from walk-in visitors. Good organizational and communication skills are useful as an administrative assistant.

Court reporter

Average base pay: $44,477 per year

Court reporters create accurate legal transcripts based on court proceedings. They transcribe proceedings, testimonies, and witness statements. They work with judges and lawyers to provide official reports. They may also be in charge of managing court schedules and reviewing legal documents. A formal education is not always a requirement for a court reporting position, but previous experience in a legal position, or training in court reporting, can be helpful.

Mail carrier

Average base pay: $45,000 per year

Mail carriers work for the United States Postal Service, helping deliver letters and packages all over the country. They deliver mail on planned routes, either by foot or vehicle. They may also work in a post office, answering customer questions and facilitating the shipment of packages. Mail carriers will need good organizational and communication skills.

Deputy sheriff

Average base pay: $46,979 per year

Deputy sheriffs work in local counties, enforcing laws. A deputy is usually an appointed official who is in charge of maintaining laws within their jurisdiction. They may complete routine traffic stops or even make arrests. Deputy sheriffs may also respond to county police calls. Deputy sheriffs will usually complete training once they have been hired, which includes police training.

Accounting clerk

Average base pay: $53,748 per year

Accounting clerks work in the accounting department of a local city or county office. They may be in charge of maintaining and updating government books. Some accounting clerks may also work in auditing practices of potential government contractor partnerships. They frequently work with budgets and costs to administer payroll or monitor spending. A degree in accounting is not always needed, but prior experience in an accounting or finance position is usually beneficial.

Census taker

Average base pay: $69,017 per year

Census takers collect responses from residents within a community. They visit households that have not responded to the U.S. Census, which is a project managed by the United States Census Bureau to count every U.S. resident. This information is used to allocate U.S. House of Representative seats and to determine budget and funding needs. Because the census only occurs every 10 years, this position is often a temporary or contractual one. Only a few may be full-time with benefits.

These are just a few of the top government positions available without a degree. Some college education, as well as certifications or training programs, can help you develop the skills you need for most positions. Discover companies hiring by location, job title, and industry. You narrow down your government search by the positions and requirements you have.