As transitioning service members consider what their lives might look like after the military, many are wondering just where their next adventure will begin. Deciding where to live is a big decision and it’s worth considering whether relocation should be part of your career plan.
Recently, employment services firm ManpowerGroup surveyed more 11,000 employers on their three-month hiring plans for the remainder of 2015 and compiled a list of the list of the best cities for jobs this fall, according to Forbes magazine. This two-part Hot Jobs series highlights positions suitable for veterans of all ranks located in the 10 cities that made the top of the Forbes list. Here’s Part I.
1. Merchandising and pricing associate in Fort Myers, Florida
Those transitioning service members who prefer warm climates and beautiful beaches most of the year should definitely explore this merchandising position with Sears in Fort Myers, Florida. As the number five city for hiring this fall, the area will see a 25% net increase in hiring over the next three months. Sears Holdings, a leading retailer of household items, employs over 30,000 veterans and 1,500 active-duty service members or reservists. The role requires someone with a knack for creating visually appealing sales displays. Those who served in visual communications specialties like mass communications specialist, public relations specialist, still photography specialist, or multimedia illustrator will find their skills transferrable here.
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2. Retail sales associate in Phoenix, Arizona
The number eight city for hiring, Phoenix, Arizona, has a lot to offer job seekers, anticipating a net increase in hiring of 23% this fall. Veterans who understand the sales cycle, have the ability to identify customer needs, and enjoy interacting with diverse audiences should explore this opening with T-Mobile. Known for its military-friendly culture, T-Mobile actively seeks to hire and retain military alumni for their dedication, technical skill, and ability to lead teams.
3. Scrum master in Richmond, Virginia
Tech-savvy veterans with organizational skills and three years Agile development experience will definitely want to look at this job with Capital One in Richmond, Virginia. Just 100 miles outside of Washington, D.C., Richmond has a lot of potential for outgoing military members who are seeking employment, touting an anticipated hiring surge of 23%. Capital One has demonstrated its commitment to hiring veterans through its major support of the Hiring Our Heroes and Military Spouse Alliance programs as well as its own military associate network. Noncommissioned and junior officers with a bachelor’s degree in computer science who also have excellent problem-solving and analytical skills would feel right at home in this role.
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4. Assistant Manager in Bloomington, Minnesota
The city of Bloomington, Minnesota, is not only the home to the largest indoor mall in America, but also expects to see a 23% uptick in hiring through the end of the year. Veterans with great time-management skills, who also demonstrate adaptability and a knack for fostering teamwork in a sales-oriented environment will find their skills transferrable to this assistant manager position with Staples. As the world’s largest office products retailer, Staples actively recruits former service members and maintains veterans resource groups within the organization. Financial acumen and the ability to analyze information to make sound business decisions is also needed to be successful in this job.
5. Retail sales representative in Greenville, South Carolina
This position with Verizon is located in Greenville, South Carolina. This dynamic city came in number two on the Forbes list, boasting a projected 27% net gain in hiring for the last quarter of 2015. The ideal candidate for this role is both professional and poised with an aptitude to learn the features and benefits of a variety of technology products and service offerings. With a dedicated military talent network, Verizon has demonstrated a deep commitment to the armed services and their families, ranking number 10 on G.I. Jobs’ Top 100 Military-Friendly Employer list in 2015.