If you’ve been on Okinawa for more than five minutes, you’ve probably heard someone say, “You should get a government job.” Easier said than done, right? The good news is that landing a civilian position on base isn’t some mysterious insider process. Once you understand how it works, it becomes much more manageable.

First stop: usajobs.gov. This is the main hiring portal for most U.S. federal civilian positions overseas, including many roles on Kadena Air Base. Create a profile, upload your resume and start browsing. One important difference from typical civilian jobs is the resume format. Federal resumes are usually longer and more detailed. Include specific duties, accomplishments and even hours worked per week. The system scans for keywords, so tailoring your resume to match the job announcement can help you pass the initial screening.

If the federal resume format feels overwhelming, there’s help available right on base. The Military & Family Readiness Center (M&FRC) offers workshops and one-on-one support for federal resumes and applications. They know exactly what hiring managers look for and can help you translate your experience into the style that works best for government jobs.

Another factor to understand is hiring preference. Some overseas positions give priority to certain applicants. Military spouse preference can place eligible spouses at the top of the candidate pool for certain jobs, while veterans’ preference gives qualifying veterans extra points in the hiring process. These preferences don’t guarantee a job, but they can improve your chances of being referred to the hiring manager. If you qualify, make sure the correct documents—such as a copy of orders or marriage certificate—are uploaded to your profile.

Finally, be patient. Federal hiring is known for moving slowly, and it’s normal for weeks or months to pass before hearing back. But once you’re in, government jobs offer stability, solid benefits and the unique opportunity to build a career while living in Okinawa.

Photography: Marina Chayka

Written By: Diana Lopez Hansen