How to Find Remote Work as a Veteran: Complete Job Search Guide

Bottom Line Up Front

Remote work offers veterans significant advantages: flexibility, no geographic constraints, and better work-life balance. However, most veterans don't know which job boards to use or how to position themselves for remote roles. This guide shows you how to find, apply for, and land remote positions that leverage your military skills while providing the flexibility you want.

Why Remote Work Is Ideal for Veterans

Veteran Advantages in Remote Work:

• Leadership and self-management skills (remote requires independence)
• Time zone flexibility helps with health appointments
• Avoid stressful office politics (military hierarchies more straightforward)
• No commute (saves time and money)
• Better work-life balance
• Flexibility for family transitions
• Access to national/international job market (not limited to local market)

Best Remote-Friendly Roles for Veterans:

• Project Management
• Operations Management
• Supply Chain/Logistics Coordination
• Customer Success Management
• Training and Development
• Sales
• Technical Support
• Customer Service
• Data Analysis
• Writing/Communications

Step 1: Assess Your Remote Work Readiness

Not everyone thrives working from home. Assess yourself first.

Remote Work Readiness Checklist:

• Can work independently without close supervision
• Have dedicated workspace at home
• Can manage distractions and stay focused
• Comfortable with virtual communication (Zoom, Slack, etc.)
• Reliable internet connection at home
• Can work with minimal in-person interaction
• Prefer flexibility over structure
• Can manage own time and deadlines
• Have good communication skills (critical in remote work)

If you scored 7+ out of 9: Remote work is likely good fit If you scored 5-6 out of 9: Remote work possible but may need adjustment If you scored under 5: Consider hybrid or in-office roles

Step 2: Prepare Remote-Focused Resume & LinkedIn

Remote hiring managers look for specific indicators.

Remote-Focused Resume

Highlight These Elements:

1. Remote Work Experience

   • Any prior remote work
   • Virtual leadership experience
   • Distributed team management
   • Asynchronous communication skills

2. Self-Management Skills

   • Meeting deadlines independently
   • Managing projects without supervision
   • Coordinating across time zones
   • Virtual meeting facilitation

3. Technical Skills (Critical for Remote)

   • Proficiency with common remote tools (Slack, Zoom, Asana, Monday.com, etc.)
   • Video conferencing
   • Project management software
   • Collaboration platforms
   • CRM systems

4. Communication Skills

   • Written communication (emails, documentation)
   • Presentation skills (often via video)
   • Coaching/training virtual teams
   • Conflict resolution in virtual environments

Remote-Focused LinkedIn

Headlines for Remote Roles:

• "Operations Manager | Remote Work | Seeking Remote Positions"
• "Project Manager | Remote-First | Open to Distributed Teams"
• "Customer Success Manager | Remote/Virtual | Available Now"

About Section Should Include:

• "Open to fully remote positions"
• "Experienced working with distributed teams"
• "Comfortable with virtual-first work environments"
• Experience with remote collaboration tools

Skills Section Should Include:

• Remote team leadership (if applicable)
• Virtual communication
• Asynchronous collaboration
• Self-management
• Specific remote tools (Slack, Zoom, Asana, etc.)

Step 3: Identify Remote-Friendly Job Boards

Best Job Boards for Remote Work:

Dedicated Remote Job Boards

FlexJobs.com

• Curated remote jobs (spam-free)
• Subscription: $50-150/month
• Higher quality jobs, fewer scams
• Includes freelance opportunities
• Best for: Finding legitimate remote roles

We Work Remotely

• 100% remote positions
• Tech, operations, marketing, sales focus
• Free job board
• Usually higher-quality positions
• Best for: Tech and marketing remote roles

Remote.co

• 100% remote positions only
• Browse free or subscribe for alerts
• Focus on full-time positions
• Global companies
• Best for: Full-time remote roles

Working Nomads

• Remote positions
• Free job board
• International companies
• Wide range of roles
• Best for: Global remote opportunities

Dribbble, AngelList, ProductHunt

• Startup remote positions
• Tech/product/design focus
• Often offer equity/stakes
• Best for: Tech-oriented veterans

General Job Boards (With Remote Filters)

LinkedIn Jobs

• Filter by "Remote" location
• Set alerts for remote roles
• Follow companies hiring remote
• Best for: All industries and levels

Indeed.com

• Filter by "Remote location"
• Set saved job alerts
• Resume builder included
• Best for: Broader job market

Glassdoor.com

• Filter for remote positions
• Company reviews available
• Salary transparency
• Best for: Company research + remote jobs

ZipRecruiter.com

• Remote job filtering
• Automated job matching
• Applies to jobs automatically (if enabled)
• Best for: Passive job search

Step 4: Optimize Applications for Remote Roles

What Remote Hiring Managers Look For:

In Your Application

1. Explicitly State Remote Interest

   • In cover letter: "I'm very interested in remote-first positions"
   • In resume: Add to headline or about section
   • Don't assume they know you want remote

2. Highlight Remote Skills

   • Self-directed project management
   • Virtual team leadership
   • Asynchronous communication
   • Documentation skills (critical in remote)

3. Address Time Zones

   • "Available to work [their timezone]" if different from yours
   • "Flexible hours to collaborate across time zones"
   • "Willingly adjust schedule for team overlap" (if applicable)

4. Show Technical Comfort

   • Mention experience with: Slack, Zoom, Asana, Monday.com, etc.
   • Demonstrate you've used collaboration tools
   • Mention any virtual facilitation or training experience

Cover Letter for Remote Roles

Template:

[Hiring Manager],

I'm excited to apply for the [Remote Position] role at [Company]. As a veteran transitioning to civilian work, I've developed strong self-management and communication skills that are essential for remote success.

In my previous role, I [specific accomplishment related to remote work: managed distributed teams, coordinated across time zones, led virtual meetings, managed projects independently, etc.].

I'm experienced with [specific tools: Slack, Zoom, Asana, Monday.com, etc.] and comfortable working asynchronously. I'm available [timezone/hours], and am flexible with schedule to collaborate with your team.

I'm excited about the opportunity to [specific value you'll bring] for [Company]. Thank you for considering my application.

Best,
[Your Name]

Step 5: Prepare for Remote Interviews

Remote interviews have specific expectations.

Technical Preparation:

• Test video/audio before interview (in Zoom, Google Meet, etc.)
• Ensure stable internet (hardwired connection better than WiFi)
• Close unnecessary apps (prevents lag, notifications)
• Have backup location if internet fails
• Test lighting (face should be well-lit)
• Check background (professional or neutral)
• Use headphones (better audio quality)

Behavioral Preparation:

• Research company's remote culture
• Prepare examples of remote work success
• Think about work-from-home challenges you've overcome
• Have list of questions about remote work setup
• Know time zone of interviewer
• Be 5 minutes early (log in early)
• Dress professionally (even if just video from waist up)

Questions to Ask About Remote Role:

1. "What's the team structure? How distributed is the team?"
2. "What tools does the team use for communication and collaboration?"
3. "What's the expectation for real-time availability? Flexible hours?"
4. "How is performance measured in a remote environment?"
5. "What's the onboarding process for remote employees?"
6. "How often are there in-person team meetings or company events?"
7. "What's the communication culture around async vs. synchronous work?"
8. "Can you tell me about the remote work infrastructure and support?"

Step 6: Negotiate Remote Work Terms

Key Terms to Negotiate:

1. Full Remote vs. Hybrid

   • Clarify if truly 100% remote or hybrid
   • Understand expectations for in-office days (if any)

2. Schedule Flexibility

   • Core hours vs. flexible hours
   • Time zone flexibility
   • Asynchronous work options

3. Equipment & Setup

   • Does company provide laptop/equipment?
   • Is home office stipend provided ($500-1,500)?
   • What about office furniture allowance?

4. Internet/Connectivity

   • Does company reimburse internet?
   • What if internet goes down—is there backup?

5. Expense Reimbursement

   • Home office setup allowance
   • Equipment (monitor, chair, desk)
   • Internet costs
   • Co-working space (if needed)

Negotiation Script:

"I'm very interested in this remote position. Before we finalize terms, I'd like to clarify a few things:

• [Specific question about remote setup]
• [Question about flexibility]
• [Question about equipment/support]

Can we discuss [specific item] as part of the offer?"

Step 7: Succeed in Your Remote Role

First 30 Days Remote Work:

Week 1: Setup

• Create dedicated workspace at home
• Install all necessary software and tools
• Attend all onboarding meetings
• Meet your team (request 1-on-1 meetings)
• Understand team communication norms

Week 2-3: Learn and Integrate

• Understand role expectations and priorities
• Ask questions about processes and workflows
• Deliver first small project/task
• Attend team meetings and be visible
• Document what you're learning

Week 4: Contribute and Build Relationships

• Start contributing measurable results
• Build relationships with team members
• Volunteer for projects
• Establish yourself as reliable and communicative
• Request feedback on first month

Best Practices for Remote Success:

1. Over-communicate

   • More communication better than less in remote
   • Update manager regularly on progress
   • Respond to messages promptly

2. Be Visible

   • Show up to all video meetings on time
   • Use video, not just audio (builds relationships)
   • Participate in team chat/Slack
   • Attend virtual team events

3. Set Boundaries

   • Define work hours
   • Take lunch breaks away from desk
   • Stop work at end of day (remote work can blur lines)

4. Stay Organized

   • Keep detailed project notes
   • Document decisions and processes
   • Use shared tools everyone can access
   • Establish routine and workspace

5. Maintain Work-Life Balance

   • Don't work beyond normal hours (common remote mistake)
   • Take time off (don't work while "on vacation")
   • Separate work and personal spaces if possible

Remote Work Red Flags

Avoid These Remote Scams/Bad Companies:

• Job pays upfront for equipment before hiring (SCAM)
• "Work from home" but requires expensive training ($500+)
• Commission-only pay with no base salary
• Requires paying fees to apply
• Vague job description or unclear expectations
• No interview process (they hire everyone)
• Pressure to work 24/7 with no clear hours
• No company website or online presence
• Poor communication from recruiter
• No benefits or employment contract

Legitimate Remote Jobs:

• Clear job description with specific responsibilities
• Proper interview process (2-3+ rounds)
• Company with online presence and reviews
• Competitive salary with benefits
• Clear communication from hiring manager/recruiter
• Professional application process
• No upfront payments required

Tools and Resources

Remote Job Boards

• FlexJobs.com - Curated, legitimate remote jobs
• We Work Remotely - 100% remote positions
• Remote.co - Remote jobs only
• LinkedIn Jobs - Remote filter available
• Indeed.com - Remote jobs searchable

Remote Tools to Learn

• Zoom - Video conferencing
• Slack - Team communication
• Asana - Project management
• Monday.com - Work management
• Loom - Video messaging
• Google Docs - Collaborative documents
• Figma - Design collaboration

Remote Work Resources

• Virtual.co - Remote work guides and tips
• Remote.com - Remote work community
• FlexJobs Blog - Remote work advice
• Buffer State of Remote Work - Annual report on remote trends

Real Veteran Remote Work Examples

Example 1: Operations Officer → Remote Project Manager

Name: Marcus

• Background: 10 years Army Operations Officer
• Remote Role: Project Manager (fully remote)
• Company: Tech company (distributed team across US)
• Salary: $85,000/year
• Benefits: Flexible hours, home office stipend ($1,000), laptop provided

Success Factors:

• Emphasized project management experience in military
• Highlighted experience coordinating across time zones
• Showed proficiency with Asana and virtual meeting facilitation
• Negotiated home office setup costs
• Year 2: Promoted to Senior PM ($105K) due to remote excellence

Example 2: Combat Medic → Remote Customer Success Manager

Name: Jennifer

• Background: 8 years Army Combat Medic
• Remote Role: Customer Success Manager (fully remote, flexible hours)
• Company: SaaS startup
• Salary: $75,000/year + $15K bonus
• Benefits: Flexible schedule, 4-day work week option

Success Factors:

• Applied through FlexJobs (legitimate jobs)
• Highlighted empathy and relationship management skills
• Showed understanding of customer communication
• Negotiated flexible hours (important for family)
• High performer: $90K salary by Year 2

Example 3: Supply Officer → Remote Supply Chain Coordinator

Name: David

• Background: 12 years Air Force Supply Officer
• Remote Role: Supply Chain Coordinator (hybrid, 2 days/month in-person)
• Company: Logistics company
• Salary: $72,000/year
• Benefits: Hybrid flexibility, professional development budget

Success Factors:

• Found role through LinkedIn remote filter
• Emphasized supply chain expertise and operations background
• Negotiated hybrid arrangement (2 days/month in-office)
• Home office setup covered
• Promotion path clear: 18 months to Sr. Coordinator ($85K)

Action Items with Deadlines

Task	Deadline	Priority
Assess remote work readiness	Week 1	High
Update resume with remote focus	Week 1	High
Update LinkedIn with remote keywords	Week 1	High
Set up on 3-5 remote job boards	Week 1	High
Set saved job alerts (all boards)	Week 2	High
Apply to 5-10 remote positions	Week 2	High
Prepare remote interview talking points	Week 2	High
Test video/audio setup	Week 2	Medium
Interview for remote positions	Week 3+	High
Negotiate remote work terms	Week 4+	High

FAQ: Remote Work for Veterans

Q: Is remote work legitimate or scam? A: Remote work is absolutely legitimate. Use established job boards (FlexJobs, LinkedIn) and research companies before applying.

Q: What military skills translate to remote work? A: Self-management, leadership, communication, project management, independent decision-making, and time zone coordination.

Q: Will I be isolated working from home? A: Many remote companies have strong virtual cultures. Virtual team events, chat channels, and video meetings maintain connection.

Q: Can I get promoted working remotely? A: Yes, many remote companies have clear promotion paths. Visibility and communication are key.

Q: What's the best remote role for my skills? A: Project Management, Operations, Customer Success, Supply Chain, or Sales work well for veterans with leadership background.

Q: How do I stay motivated working from home? A: Routine, dedicated workspace, regular communication with team, and clear goals help. Set boundaries between work and personal time.

Q: Is pay the same for remote as in-office? A: Often yes, though some companies pay slightly less for remote (due to location arbitrage). Negotiate for full salary.

Q: How long does remote job search take? A: 4-8 weeks typically. Remote roles are competitive, but high demand for remote workers.

Q: Should I mention military background in remote applications? A: Yes, it provides context for your self-management and leadership skills. Frame military background in terms of remote-relevant skills.

Next Steps

1. Week 1: Prepare resume and LinkedIn for remote roles
2. Week 1: Set up on 3-5 remote job boards with alerts
3. Week 2: Start applying to remote positions (5-10/week)
4. Week 3+: Interview for positions and negotiate terms
5. Week 4+: Accept offer and prepare for first day

Key Takeaways

• Remote work is ideal for veterans seeking flexibility without geographic constraints
• Military skills (self-management, communication, independent decision-making) translate well to remote work
• Use dedicated remote job boards (FlexJobs, We Work Remotely, Remote.co) for best opportunities
• Highlight remote-specific skills: asynchronous communication, virtual team coordination, self-management
• Prepare specifically for remote interviews: test tech, emphasize remote success, ask about remote culture
• Negotiate remote terms: full remote vs. hybrid, schedule flexibility, equipment/setup costs
• Avoid remote scams: legitimate jobs never require upfront payment, have clear hiring process, have online presence
• Success in remote role depends on visibility, communication, and reliable deliverables

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Ready to find remote work? Use this guide to identify opportunities, optimize applications, and land the flexible remote position that works for your veteran lifestyle.