Job Security and Stability in Public Service Receive High Marks According to a New Survey
The public service sector is experiencing a significant transformation, particularly in state and local governments, as it navigates a gradual improvement in hiring challenges. According to a report by the MissionSquare Research Institute, the challenges faced by public sector employers have lessened since 2022, although specific professions still face recruitment challenges [1][3].
This transition is particularly evident in the demand for MINT professions (Mathematics, Information Technology, Nursing, and Technology). While IT positions remain challenging to fill, with many respondents indicating a lack of qualified applicants [3], engineering positions are considered hard to fill by more than 70% of respondents in 2025 [3]. Nursing, due to shortages and high demand in the healthcare sector, also faces challenges.
To attract more qualified specialists in MINT professions, several strategies can be employed. These include reducing educational requirements, offering competitive compensation, providing opportunities for career advancement and skill development, emphasising the purpose and impact of public service, and diversifying recruitment channels [1][3].
Thomas Hense, CEO of Jobtensor, expresses optimism about the interest in jobs in the public service, but notes concerns about effectively tapping into this potential [2]. He highlights the immense recruitment challenge due to the number of retirees expected from the public service by 2030 [2].
The public service sector offers several advantages that make it attractive to potential employees. A clear hierarchy, appreciated by 33 percent of respondents, provides transparency and clear responsibilities compared to other industries [1]. The sector also offers high stability, appreciated by 35% of respondents, especially in economically uncertain times [1].
Universities and colleges are also popular employers in the public service, with 29 percent of respondents able to imagine working there [1]. Almost 20 percent find a job with the police and the military particularly interesting in the public service [1].
However, many areas in the public service are struggling to effectively tap into potential job interest [2]. Almost 40 percent of respondents would like the public service to draw more attention to itself and highlight its strengths [1].
For further information, please contact Ralf Schick at 0711 66601 185 or r.schick@[our website] [4].
References: [1] https://www.missionsquare.org/research/2023/01/24/public-sector-hiring-challenges-easing-but-still-persist-in-some-areas [2] https://www.jobtensor.com/en/news/public-sector-job-market-2023 [3] https://www.missionsquare.org/research/2023/01/24/public-sector-hiring-challenges-easing-but-still-persist-in-some-areas [4] [Our website]
- The transformation in the public service sector has sparked growing interest in careers, particularly in fields like engineering and IT, as the sector offers competitive compensation and opportunities for skill development and career advancement.
- In order to address the lingering recruitment challenges in certain professions like engineering and nursing, public sector employers should diversify their recruitment channels and emphasize the purpose and impact of public service, in addition to offering competitive pay and development opportunities.
