Public service jobs are those in which individuals work for the government, an organization contracted by the government, or a nonprofit organization, doing work that benefits the public in some way. Public service careers can be at the federal, state, or local level, depending on the position. These jobs are endless because so many jobs exist to fulfill public needs. Public service jobs are typically characterized by a desire to help others and change the world, and society benefits when citizens have access to education and essential services regardless of their ability to pay. Although public service jobs may not pay as much as other fields, the rewards of working in public service are unbeatable, and individuals may be eligible for student loan forgiveness if they take a public service job.

Examples of public service jobs include:

• Protective Services: Law enforcement officer, firefighter, animal control officer, correctional officer, bailiff, transit authority, crossing guards, coast guard, military, immigration and customs inspectors.

• Government Servants: Dedicated government workers ensure that the public enjoys clean drinking water, ensuring that streets are safe to drive on, streets, garbage removal, waste disposal, sewage, and utilities.

• Criminal Justice: Police officer, detective, probation officer, parole officer, forensic science technician, crime scene investigator, and more.

• Public Administration: Public administrator, city manager, budget analyst, human resources specialist, and more.

• Education: Teacher, school counselor, school administrator, and more.

• Healthcare: Doctor, nurse, social worker, public health worker, and more.

• Environmental: Environmental scientist, park ranger, conservationist, and more.

• Nonprofit: Nonprofit manager, grant writer, fundraiser, and more.

Overall, public service jobs are an excellent way to give back to the community and make a positive impact on society.