Word 2016 Project Grader - Instructions Employment in Local Government The Career Services Division of Southern Canyon College is providing the following information for those students seeking employment in government positions. Overview of State and Locl Government The nature of government has changed. Since the 1990 s state and local governments have assumed the responsibility for developing, implementing, and managing programs that had previouch been adininistered by the federal government. The U.5. Census Bureau estimates there are approximately 87,500 local government entities, induding counties, municipalities (cities), towmships, school districts, and special districts. Local governments employ more than three times as many service workers than state government. The majority of local entity employees are firefighters and law enforcement officers or support workers. Local Government Employment Opportunities The employment picture differs with each local government entity-the size of the jurisdiction and prevailing local laws determine the structure of each organization, the number of people employed, and the number of hours they work. For example, chief executives of very small towns or cities may work only part time. In addition to public safety employees, local governments also employee people in professional, administrative support, management, business, and financial occupations. These entities employ people in many of the same types of jobs found in most other types of organizations. Types of Positions Education Required The education and experience level needed for jobs in local government will vary widely depending on the specific position. A brief summary is included in this document. contact Career services for more specific information. Chief Executives chief executives often have a master's degree in Public Administration. Urban and Regional Planners Urban or regional planners are generally required to have at least a Bachelor's degree in urban planning. Public safety Most applicants for firefighting and law enforcement positions must have a high school education and pass a civil service examination. Candidates for police officer position are encouraged to have college coursework. Community colleges offer comprehensive programs in law enforcement and criminal justice that can be an excellent starting point for a career in law enforcement. Although employment growth in the local government sector is expected to grow more slowly over the next decade than in previous years, this is a large and vibrant sector for United states employment and offers numerous opportunities for citizens in all education and experience brackets