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Careers for Federal Employees
Your Next Chapter in Public Service Starts in Illinois.
Your federal experience is the foundation for an impactful State career.
You’ve given your time, talent, and heart to serving others. At the State of Illinois, we see the value in that, and we’re ready to help you keep making a difference.
Serve Illinois—Your Way.
Your experience. Your values. Your future.
No matter where you've served—public safety, health care, administration, IT, or environmental work—there's a place for your federal experience in Illinois State government. Here, your impact continues, with the added benefit of more flexibility and long-term stability.
Benefits of State Service:
Stability & Job Security – Illinois state careers offer long-term opportunities with strong union protections.
Pension & Retirement – Access to a defined benefit retirement plan with potential reciprocity for your federal service.
Health Insurance – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans comparable to federal offerings.
Work-Life Balance – Generous paid time off, flexible schedules, and growing remote/hybrid opportunities.
- Career Mobility – With over 60 state agencies, you’ll have room to grow in your field or explore new ones.
The State of Illinois is ready for what you bring! Join us in a career that honors your service with purpose, stability, and real community impact.
From Federal to State: What You Need to Know
Bring Your Skills. We’ll Make Them Count.
Your federal experience is valuable, and it may translate directly to your qualifications and compensation in Illinois. Here’s how the two systems compare:
| Feature | Federal Jobs | Illinois State Jobs |
|---|---|---|
| Pension | Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) | State Employees' Retirement System (SERS) (Reciprocity may apply) |
| Health Benefits | Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program | State Employees Group Insurance Program |
| Leave | Based on tenure | Generous accruals for vacation, sick, and personal leave also based on tenure |
| Remote Work | Varies | Hybrid and remote positions available |
| Hiring Process | Centralized | More localized and streamlined |
| Seniority Credit | Based on federal time-in-service | May receive credit for similar service or experience |
Featured Jobs for Federal Workers
Explore In-Demand Roles Where Your Experience Shines.
Looking for positions that mirror your federal role? These Illinois opportunities are ideal matches:
Program Manager → Public Service Administrator
IT Specialist → Information Systems Analyst
Public Health Officer → Health Facilities Surveyor
Environmental Specialist → Environmental Protection Engineer
Law Enforcement → State Police/Inspector roles
How to Apply
Simple Steps to Your Next Public Service Role
Search Open Jobs
Visit Work.Illinois.Gov and search by keyword, agency, or job title. You can also explore jobs filtered by “ideal for federal experience.”Review Qualifications
Read the job description closely. Many State positions value the leadership, policy, and technical skills you gained in federal service.Apply Online
Create an account and apply through our hiring platform, Work.Illinois.Gov. You’ll upload a resume and answer supplemental questions.Need Help?
We’ve have career counselors who can walk you through interpreting job titles, explaining your federal experience, and understanding pension portability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I transfer my federal pension to the state system?
While direct transfer isn’t possible, Illinois’ retirement system may credit your federal time depending on the agency. Check with State Employees' Retirement System (SERS) or your hiring office for details.
Will my federal experience count toward pay or seniority?
In many cases, yes. Illinois hiring managers often assess prior federal service for comparable grade levels and salary bands.
Is the application process as complex as USAJobs?
No! The state’s process is streamlined and more flexible. Many roles allow you to apply with just a resume and a few questions.
Do I need to live in Illinois to apply?
Not always. Remote and hybrid roles are expanding. Check each job posting for details.
