State and Local Government Job Outlook

Although job prospects vary by State and region, overall prospects are expected to be favorable.

Wage and salary employment in State and local government is projected to increase 8 percent during the 2008–18 period, slower than the 11 percent growth projected for all sectors of the economy combined.

Job growth will stem from the rising demand for services at the State and local levels, particularly demand for public safety and health services. Two factors are fueling the growth of these services: an increasing population and the assumption of responsibility by State and local governments for some services previously provided by the Federal Government. Despite the increased demand for the services of State and local governments, employment growth will continue to be dampened by budgetary constraints due to the rapidly increasing proportion of revenues devoted to the Medicaid program, and public resistance to tax increases. Outsourcing of government jobs to the private sector will also limit employment in State and local government. When economic times are good, many State and local governments increase spending on programs and employment.

Professional and service occupations accounted for over half of all jobs in State and local government. Most new jobs will stem from steady demand for community and social services, health services, and protective services, including law enforcement and fire fighting and prevention workers.

Employment of management, business, and financial occupations is projected to grow at about the same rate as overall employment in State and local government. Employment in office and administrative support occupations in State and local government is expected to remain close to current levels.

Although job prospects vary by State and region, overall prospects are expected to be favorable. In addition to job openings from employment growth, many opportunities will be created by workers who retire from the industry. Prospects with managerial experience will have better opportunities as a growing number of managers are expected to retire in the coming decade. Currently, some States and localities are being forced to reduce payrolls; however, as State and local budgets improve, new opportunities should arise.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Career Guide to Industries, 2010-11 Edition