A federal worker is an individual who works for the federal government. Federal workers carry out key government functions such as ensuring food safety, investigating criminal activity, providing emergency care, and developing science and technology. They are grouped according to their tasks, such as administrative, professional, and other occupations. Most federal employees work in the executive branch, and almost all of them work in the United States. A small portion of federal workers serve abroad in government facilities, such as U.S. embassies and consulate offices. Federal workers choose government employment for many reasons, including job security and the opportunity to serve the public. Federal employees have the right to organize, bargain collectively with their employers, and choose whether to participate in labor unions.