11 Government Jobs That Welcome Seniors (Great Benefits Too)

Working in the public sector is a great way for older Americans to make a stable living and earn serious cash. Not only do they offer attractive benefits, but governmental jobs are a necessity for society to function correctly. Plus, not only will you be earning money, but you'll also be making a difference in the lives of your fellow citizens.

More good news? The government views age as an asset, so these roles are ideal for older individuals seeking to continue in the workforce. Here are 11 government jobs that welcome seniors in the workplace.

Working under the U.S. Census Bureau, you will collect housing and population data by interviewing people over the phone or in person. This is a critical job for getting an accurate census, which determines congressional representation and how federal funds are distributed. The Census Bureau has also signed the AARP Employer Pledge, which indicates its dedication to actively hiring older Americans.

In terms of benefits, the Census Bureau offers mileage reimbursement, life insurance, a wide range of health and dental insurance options, and the chance to work seasonally without long-term commitment, which means there's plenty of flexibility to suit your schedule.

As a poll worker, you will assist your local election office by checking in voters, verifying registration, distributing ballots, and helping with voting equipment. Experience and knowledge are invaluable assets in this field, making this job an ideal fit for older Americans.

Given the importance of voting in local, state, and national elections, this role is vital and fulfilling, and there are more than just presidential elections. Numerous local elections are held every year.

The perks? You'll get a look into the critical electoral process, receive mileage reimbursement, and receive a generous base pay, along with being paid for training, supplies pick up, and election night drop-offs.

If you're an older American who loves the outdoors, you could thrive in a career as a park ranger for the National Park Service or a local park agency. These workers focus on leading tours, staffing visitor centers, answering questions, and sharing historical or environmental information with the public. In addition, these roles offer great flexibility, ranging from full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary positions, depending on your needs.

This type of work is less physically demanding than the law enforcement or fire management duties of other rangers, so it's more suitable for seniors. Some of the major perks include complimentary housing in the park, free access to other national parks, as well as competitive health and dental care plans, and a thrift spending plan.

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings

Compare car insurance rates in Ohio

See if you qualify for a lower rate in less than 2 minutes

Check Rates

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

In this role, you will work for the IRS as a certified tax preparer, helping your fellow citizens during one of the most confusing and stressful parts of the year. So long as you obtain a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) from the IRS and become an enrolled agent, you're all set.

Many local governments require these tax experts, which means there are numerous open positions. You can choose your own hours, opt for part-time or seasonal roles, or work remotely, which means this is a great option if you're looking for flexibility in retirement.

The IRS also participates in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB), which provides health, dental, vision, and life insurance. There is also no mandatory retirement age, so seniors can continue working for as long as they'd like.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) regularly hires clerks, sorters, and delivery personnel, including retirees and seniors. Clerical positions often suit older adults due to predictable hours and indoor work environments.

Since you'll be a federal worker, you qualify for benefits such as paid vacation time and sick leave, a pension and disability coverage, coverage under Social Security and Medicare, and the Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP), which insures the costs of receiving long-term care, among others.

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) continually seeks additional staff to support its various VA hospitals and clinics. In this role, you'll perform administrative duties such as filing, scheduling, and patient coordination.

These roles leverage organizational and interpersonal skills, making them perfect for older adults who prefer a structured, supportive environment, and if you're looking for more work-life balance, the VA offers flexible schedules. Additionally, working for the VA will net you benefits such as comprehensive health insurance, paid federal holidays, and a retirement savings plan.

Keeping school children and other pedestrians safe during before-and-after school hours is what you'll do as a crossing guard. Many cities and municipalities specifically target older individuals for these roles due to their community ties and reliability. It's a vital role to any community, and it's a perfect way for you to stay socially integrated after retirement.

These workers are usually employed by local school districts, city departments, or traffic engineering departments, so benefits may depend on your municipality. Often, though, this includes health coverage even for part-time employees, a health savings plan, and additional retirement benefits. Some school districts even offer bonuses to crossing guards with perfect attendance during each quarter of the school year.

Many public libraries require additional staff to assist citizens with checking out books, using computer equipment, and maintaining a safe and clean environment. Given the slow pace and quiet nature of community libraries, this role is ideal for older individuals, though you've got to love the smell of old books.

Access to public pensions and paid time off are two perks that are possible with this role, depending on how your local government is structured. Well-defined and generous retirement benefits are common.

Many courts are in dire need of reliable workers to handle clerical and other documentation-intensive duties, and given the repetitive nature of the work and regular work hours, this role is well-suited for older Americans who are detail-oriented. Between handling legal documents, scheduling cases, and assisting citizens, there's plenty of work to go around.

Court workers get access to perks such as a pension plan, health insurance, and paid time off on court holidays. The Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance program also provides life insurance coverage for federal employees.

Each state has its own unemployment requirements, and there's a need for call center representatives to check on claimants.

You'll spend most of your time verifying with claimants if they meet the necessary requirements to qualify for unemployment. You'll also help them through the filing process and answer any other questions they might have.

This role requires patience and strong interpersonal skills, making it a perfect fit for seniors. It's not a particularly labor-intensive one either, since you'll spend most of your time at a desk. Access to comprehensive health insurance plans through the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP), the ability to work remotely, and a better understanding of your state's unemployment process are just a few of the big perks in this role.

As a claims assistant, you will assist individuals in navigating the Social Security benefits application process. These roles are well-suited to older adults who understand the complexities of the Social Security system and can offer empathy and guidance.

This is a desk-based position, making it well-suited for seniors who want to help their peers navigate the complex Social Security process. Eleven paid federal holidays, 13 paid vacation days a year (20 days a year after 3 years), and life insurance are just a few of the perks you'll get in this position.

Government jobs can be a fulfilling and reliable source of income for seniors who wish to remain engaged in the workforce and supplement their Social Security. This list proves that there are plenty of employment opportunities that value the life experience, reliability, and community ties of older Americans.

Don't think that just because you are older means you cannot find government employment, either. According to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM), 28% of federal employees are over the age of 55, reflecting a growing recognition that older workers are essential to maintaining effective public services.