Your career checklist for every move

• Research job market in new location (salary ranges, top employers, industry presence)
• Check if your professional licenses transfer to new state
• Update resume with recent accomplishments and skills
• Start networking in new location (join LinkedIn groups, local military spouse groups)
• Research cost of living and salary expectations at new location
• Identify potential employers (companies known to hire military spouses)
• Check spouse preference eligibility on federal job applications
• Save important work samples and portfolio items
• Document your current accomplishments and metrics
• Research remote work options in your field

General PCS career tips

• Start early. The 3-month timeline is minimum. 6 months is better.
• Stay organized. Keep all career documents (licenses, certs, references) in one digital folder.
• Network constantly. Join local groups online before you even arrive.
• Be flexible. Your career path might shift with each PCS — embrace it.
• Consider remote. Remote-friendly careers eliminate location stress.
• Use spouse preference. Federal jobs offer military spouse hiring preference.
• Don't apologize for PCS. Frame it as adaptability and resilience.
• Ask for help. Installation employment offices, MSEP, and Hiring Our Heroes exist to help.