PCS and Your Career: Employment Tips for Military Spouses

Military spouses know that moving every few years due to PCS orders is part of the lifestyle. Regularly relocating to a new area can significantly impact your family—and your employment. Nearly 7 in 10 military spouses are in the workforce, according to a 2024 Military OneSource survey. That means each move can affect your income and career path.

Moving frequently can be challenging, but relocating can also bring new opportunities. Use these helpful employment tips for military spouses to turn each move into a new opportunity to support your family financially and build a career you’re proud of.

Understanding employment rights and available programs

When PCS orders arrive, Servicemembers are required to move. That can mean big changes for your job, too. Fortunately, programs and protections are designed to help military spouses stay employed and keep their careers moving forward.

• Military Spouse Preference (MSP) gives you priority for certain federal jobs. When federal government agencies have openings, they must consider qualified military spouses first. This applies to jobs worldwide and can lead to stable, long-term federal work. 
• Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) connects you with more than 600 employers who want to hire military spouses. These companies understand the challenges of military life. They often offer flexible work schedules, remote options and career growth across PCS moves. 
• Spouse Education and Career Opportunities (SECO) offers free career coaching, skills tests and educational resources. You can also get help with scholarships, licensing and career planning that fits your lifestyle.
• Transition Employment Assistance for Military Spouses (TEAMS) offers job search support during PCS moves. Services include résumé writing help, interview prep and direct connections to employers in new locations. 
• Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) protects job rights when military duties affect employment. This mainly applies to Servicemembers, but it can also support spouses in certain situations, primarily if you work for a military-friendly employer.

Employment tips for military spouses

Every military spouse’s career path is different. Whether you want full-time work, part-time flexibility or to run your own business, you can build a meaningful career, no matter where PCS orders take you.

Here are a few tips to help you find the right job.

• Start early. Begin your job search 3-6 months before your move. This gives you time to research employers, apply for jobs and even land some interviews before you arrive at your new location.
• Look for milspouse-friendly employers. Some companies offer help with moves, flexible hours or job transfer options.
• Own your story. Be prepared to discuss your frequent moves and job changes. In your résumé and interviews, highlight the strengths you’ve gained, like being adaptable, learning quickly and working well in new environments.

• Go remote. Many companies offer fully remote roles in fields like customer service, marketing, writing and design. That flexibility lets you work from anywhere.
• Try gig work. Platforms like Upwork, Fiverr and TaskRabbit let you earn income on your terms and build skills that travel with you. You can adjust your workload based on your budget and income needs.
• Choose portable careers. Fields like teaching, healthcare, real estate and skilled trades often have high demand and licensing agreements in many areas.

• Plan ahead for continuity. If you offer services, figure out which clients you can serve remotely. For localized businesses, research your new market and network before you move.
• Know the rules. Your business structure, taxes and licensing may change with each PCS. Talk with a tax professional who is familiar with military moves to help you stay compliant.
• Transfer licenses early. Some states offer fast-track options for military spouses. Start the process as soon as you know your next location.

• Research childcare options early. On-base childcare can have waitlists, so also check out private providers, family daycare and local spouse networks for recommendations.
• Tap into your network. Connect with spouse groups at your new base to see if you can find job leads, childcare tips and support for working parents.
• Look for flexible options. Jobs with non-traditional hours, job sharing or seasonal work can help you balance income with family needs.

Tap into job search resources for military spouses

Finding a new job after a PCS move can be a challenging task, but you don’t have to do it alone. Military spouses can use many resources to look for work, research employers and make job hunting easier.

• Military spouse job boards and career platforms focus on your unique needs. Sites like RecruitMilitary, Corporate Gray and Military Spouse Employment Partnership can help you identify military-friendly employers. Many offer remote roles or jobs in multiple locations.
• Professional networking groups offer both job opportunities and community support. The Military Spouse Employment Partnership hosts virtual events and mentorship programs. Local spouse clubs and LinkedIn groups like “Military Spouses in Business” can help you network by location or industry.
• Career coaching and mentorship programs provide personalized support. SECO offers free one-on-one career coaching. Military Spouse Education Benefits can match you with mentors to help improve your résumé and develop a career plan.
• Hiring fairs and employer directories bring opportunities directly to you. Many military bases host job fairs and networking events. Virtual fairs let you connect with employers nationwide. The Military Family Life Counseling Program often keeps lists of spouse-friendly employers in your new area.
• Professional associations help you stay connected to your field. Many offer military spouse discounts, continuing education and certification programs that move with you.

The key to successful networking is to start building your network before you need it. Stay connected even when you’re not actively job hunting to help make your next move smooth and successful.

Plan ahead for financial security through your PCS move

A PCS move can sometimes result in a temporary income gap. With a little planning, you can stay on top of your finances and reduce stress.

• Build a PCS job fund. As soon as you know you’re going to have to relocate to a new duty station, start setting aside savings for that goal. Aim for at least 2-3 months of income to help cover living expenses while you search for your next job. 
• Adjust your monthly spending. Plan for the possibility of a job gap and think about how you can live on one income temporarily. Set a budget, cut non-essential expenses and focus on needs (not wants) until you’re back to work. 
• Research financial support options. Military relief societies can help with emergency loans or grants during a move. Some bases also offer spouse employment grants to cover licensing fees or professional development.
• Consider short-term income options. Freelance, consulting or contract jobs can help while you look for a permanent position. These roles also help you stay active in your field and keep your skills sharp.

Navy Federal Credit Union is your partner through every PCS

At Navy Federal, we understand that PCS moves affect every part of your financial life, including career changes. Our PCS Hub and comprehensive PCS Checklist provide resources to help military families handle moves smoothly. You also can use our PCS budgeting calculator to plan for job-related costs and possible income gaps.

No matter where your move takes you, stay resilient as you relocate your employment. Building a fulfilling career takes persistence, and we’re here to support you along the way. Whether you’re setting up banking in your new duty location, managing finances during a career change or opening a business loan or line of credit for additional support as you relocate and rebuild your clientele, we’re here to support your journey with tools designed for dedicated military families.