Advice on finding a meaningful career after the military?

Sheryl Verhulst, it sounds like you have the education, the drive and the work ethic to be an excellent employee for a company that is able to recognise your talents and potential and to place you in the right position. If you know that you are not interested in Sales or Biz Dev then good for you for not 'falling into them' and for staying true to the course until you do find a good opportunity for you in a field that makes sense. One way that you could get closer to working in the government sector if you cannot find a direct opening is to work for a DoD contractor. There are often many veterans who choose to work in companies that align themselves with the government and they often follow many of the same mindsets and workflows. You could look for a DoD contractor who has a branch that is focused on social good. these companies would have enough money to cover a good salary but you would be able to work in a department that was centred around what you care about.

Hang tough sister. Welcome to the unemployed OIF/OEF veterans club. Remember, the economy is great and there are billions spent on lip service to say how the unemployment rate is decreasing for us, so we have that going for us. (lol) I have put in over 500 applications in multiple capacities and believe I have qualifications that are extremely needed by those like us, but always get told I am not the best qualified. I don't mind losing out to people who will bring more to offer our veterans, but I don't believe that is always the case. The one job offer I was given was thru the good old boy system and I was called direct BEFORE the job was even posted to USAjobs. That tells me the old ways of operating are still thriving. I strongly suggest that you take your resume to any of RallyPoint's civilian recruiters and seeing if they will give you input. We get used to writing NCOERs and military jargon and the longer we stayed in, the longer it will take for us to make sense to civilians. Keepus in the loop and sound off when you land your dream job and especially the tools that you used to get noticed. We need all the help we can get.

I transitioned a few years ago, and found myself in an entry level position for the career I wanted but ... And this is key.. I always kept an eye out for something better whether it be in the current organization or in another. The entry level position was well below my skill set BUT it was a stepping stone. I think the mistake some make is assuming that we can walk into the civilian world at middle or upper management, we know we can handle it but civilian organizations like to , 1. Promote from within OR 2. See you in action to prove it to them. If you take an entry level position ensure to keep a good attitude and with your education and training you'll be at the level you want in no time ... Private organizations tend to underestimate our determination and strength so we have to prove it to them. Also Don't get bogged down in the entry level position at the most you'll start to rise at worst you can add that paid experience to your résumé. Oh and finally NETWORK!!! It is about what you know and often time ms also about who you know so that they remember you or you can be informed about an opportunity.