Frequent relocations, extended deployments, and unpredictable schedules are just a few challenges military spouses face when managing their careers. It’s easy to feel like you’re always starting over, especially when a Permanent Change of Station (PCS) move is on the horizon. But having a solid career transition plan can alleviate some of the stress and help you maintain momentum, even in the face of constant change.
Creating a proactive career transition plan ensures you’re not caught off guard by relocations or employment gaps. Whether you’re just starting out, shifting industries, or looking to re-enter the workforce, these steps will help you navigate your next career move seamlessly.
Research job opportunities in your new location (before you move).
Don’t wait until you’ve unpacked the moving boxes to begin your job search. Start researching employment opportunities in your new location well before the move is complete. Job boards, industry-specific sites, and LinkedIn are excellent resources for scouting local and remote job openings. You should also take advantage of the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP), which connects military spouses with over 500 military-friendly employers. These companies understand the unique challenges you face and are committed to providing portable, flexible employment options. Visit job boards such as Indeed, FlexJobs, and the MSEP Job Search Portal to find roles that fit your skill set. Take the time to research industries that are in high demand in your new area. If you know you’ll be moving to a location with a booming tech industry, for example, look into IT-related roles.
Hip tip: Set up LinkedIn job alerts for your new location and industries of interest to receive notifications about openings that match your criteria.
Update your resume to reflect new skills and experiences.
Frequent moves and career breaks are common for military spouses, but they shouldn’t hold you back. When updating your resume, include any skills, volunteer work, or side gigs that you’ve accumulated during your time off from formal employment. Experiences such as leading a base family readiness group, organizing community events, or contributing to a nonprofit all demonstrate leadership, organization, and teamwork, all skills highly valued by employers.
Additionally, military spouses often have unique experiences that showcase flexibility and resilience, two attributes that are incredibly attractive to hiring managers. Highlight transferable skills gained from volunteer or community work, such as project management, communications, or event coordination. Reframe gaps in your resume by explaining what you accomplished during your time away from paid work. For example, instead of listing a gap in employment, you could mention “Community Outreach Volunteer” or “Event Coordinator for Nonprofit.”
Hip Tip: Consider using LinkedIn Premium to access resume-building tools that can help you refine and optimize your resume for applicant tracking systems (ATS).
Prepare for licensing or certification transfers.
If you work in a profession that requires a license or certification, such as teaching, nursing, or real estate, you’ll need to plan for how to transfer these credentials to your new state. Unfortunately, licensing requirements vary widely from state to state, and transferring credentials can be time-consuming and expensive. However, there are resources to help mitigate this challenge.
Military spouses may be eligible for up to $1,000 in reimbursement for licensing and certification costs incurred during a PCS move. The Department of Defense and many states have also implemented initiatives to streamline licensing transfers for military families, making it easier to continue working in your profession when you relocate.
Research state-specific requirements for transferring your license or certification well in advance of your move. Contact your state licensing board or SECO (Spouse Education and Career Opportunities) advisor to get information on required documentation or testing. Apply for reimbursement through your branch’s process to cover exam and registration fees associated with transferring your license.
Network to build connections in your new location.
One of the most powerful tools for job seekers, particularly those who frequently relocate, is networking. Whether you’re attending local events, connecting through social media, or joining online communities, building a strong network will help you find job leads, gather valuable advice, and feel more connected in your new area.
For military spouses, networking can be an even greater asset because it helps you meet professionals who understand your unique challenges. LinkedIn Premium offers military spouses access to networking groups, employer introductions, and training programs tailored to those transitioning between jobs. Join industry-specific LinkedIn groups and military spouse networks like the Hiring Our Heroes Military Spouse Professional Network. Attend local job fairs, industry meetups, and other professional events to build in-person connections. Don’t hesitate to reach out to contacts in your current network and let them know about your move and career goals. They may be able to introduce you to new contacts in your future location.
Set long-term career goals and stay flexible.
Frequent relocations can make it feel like you’re stuck in a career rut, constantly starting over. That’s why it’s essential to set long-term career goals that account for both your personal ambitions and the realities of military life for your career transition plan. Whether you’re working toward earning a degree, gaining experience in a particular industry, or building a freelance business, having a clear vision will help you stay focused even when life gets chaotic.
It’s also important to stay flexible. Your career path might not look like a straight line, but that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve long-term success. Write down your short-term and long-term career goals, and break them into smaller, actionable steps. Regularly review and adjust your goals to reflect your family’s current situation and your career progress. Stay open to alternative career paths that provide flexibility, such as remote work, freelancing, or consulting.
Be proactive and be prepared.
A successful career transition plan for military spouses hinges on being proactive, flexible, and resourceful. Start by researching job opportunities in your new location before you move, update your resume with new skills and volunteer work, and plan ahead for any licensing transfers. Networking with professionals in your new area and staying open to new opportunities will help keep your career on track, no matter how many times you relocate.
By following these steps, you can stay one step ahead of each PCS move and continue to build a career that works for you and your family. Military life may be unpredictable, but your career doesn’t have to be.