Think globally, work locally — local government jobs
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What types of jobs are available in local government? The wide-ranging services of local government cover over 500 occupations. Some areas will be familiar such as planning, leisure, social services, teaching, tourism and environmental health. However, we also employ lawyers, media and communications officers, graphic designers, surveyors, plumbers and even hairdressers. Local government is a major graduate recruiter. Some jobs are available for direct graduate entry whilst others require specific degrees and further professional qualifications. Career changes and personal development are encouraged in such a diverse sector — you could begin as a teacher and then specialise in child truancy or qualify as an educational psychologist. Local government also offers a specific programme aimed at recruiting the senior management of tomorrow. The National Graduate Development Programme (NGDP) annually recruits around 100 graduates and, over the course of two years, incorporates placements within a host authority and a postgraduate diploma in local government management. Applicants need to have graduated within the last three years with at least a 2:1 degree in any discipline. Are any particular skills or qualifications required to get a local government job? With such a wide variety of jobs available, any range of skills, qualifications and experience is applicable. We exist to provide services to our communities, so people skills such as communication and customer service are obviously highly relevant. Having direct experience such as voluntary work is always useful. Equally, involvement with local community issues or groups demonstrates your desire to improve the quality of peoples’ lives. Does working for local government make a positive impact? Local government is all about making a positive impact on people’s lives and the environment in which they live, work and play. We have a role in providing all sorts of services, as well as care for those in society who are most vulnerable. Working for a local authority is a rewarding experience knowing that you have genuinely made a difference to your own community. What are the benefits like? In addition to the “moral and ethical” rewards of working in the public services there are the tangible rewards of the local government pension scheme, generous holiday entitlements and widespread flexible work practices. Competitive salaries can be found in local government, particularly in areas of skills shortages or of specialist skills and knowledge. Skills gained in one local authority are transferable to another. Working in a metropolitan or urban council may well enhance the career experience gained in a rural or district council. Long periods of continuous service within local government are rewarded by benefits such as increases in pay or annual leave entitlement. Local government can offer both an excellent starting point for your career or a long-term commitment to serving your community. Few other sectors offer the wide range of challenges and rewards as local government. Local Government Careers www.lgcareers.com LG Jobs www.lgjobs.com National Graduate Development Programme www.ngdp.co.uk This article was first published by People & Planet, who have teamed up with The Ethical Careers Guide to bring you this service. If you found it useful, please consider supporting our work.
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