Job Description

Being an administrative assistant to a community’s selfless heroes makes for an extremely rewarding career. Police officers fight crime, and firefighter rescue lives but their departments couldn’t operate without an admin helping them manage their stations. This work goes beyond just ordering desk supplies, you’ll handle equipment and keep stock of turnout gear, bullet-proof vests and a plethora of exciting materials. You’ll also help plan fundraisers and organize community functions. You typically act as the department’s public relations manager.

Working in the public service industry also means you are employed by the state government. Government paid salaries, benefits and job security equal or outpace those of corporate posts.

An economic downturn doesn’t slowdown this industry. In fact, the demand for police officers and firefighters continues to grow. This means lots of opportunity for admin job-seekers.

Median Salary

Average of $35,830 plus benefits packages (U.S. State Government)

Education Requirements

Public service admins must have a high school degree or equivalent certification. More than ever, however, the government expects advanced degrees from potential employees. You must also be proficient in the English language. In order to be a competitive job candidate, ideally one should pursue a degree in Public Administration or Business Administration.

Job Outlook

In 2006, the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites that there were 1,618,000 administrative assistants and executive assistants in the U.S. By 2016, this number is projected to grow by 15% or 239,000 jobs to 1,857,000 administrative assistants. This is faster than the average for all jobs in the U.S., which means the opportunities in this area are plentiful. Public service is well-known as a recession-proof field.