Press Release (En español)
For Immediate Release
press.office@ssa.gov
Social Security Makes Great Strides in Hiring Our Nation's Heroes
Eligible Veterans Encouraged to Apply and Take Exam for Administrative Law Judge Positions
On Memorial Day, the Social Security Administration joins Americans in taking time to honor the brave men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country and protecting our freedom. In addition, Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, says the agency's hiring of veterans has increased and there are employment opportunities right now for veterans with at least seven years of experience as a licensed attorney who want to work for Social Security.
The Office of Personnel Management (OPM) recently announced that 10-point preference eligible veterans interested in becoming an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) and working for Social Security can take the examination now even though the test is closed to all other applicants. More information about this opportunity is available at www.fedshirevets.gov.
"Social Security is committed to employing veterans and is proud to support President Obama's Veterans Employment Initiative," said Commissioner Astrue. "We are honored to have veterans join our workforce and bring their leadership and teamwork skills to help fulfill the agency's mission."
So far this fiscal year, the agency has hired 210 veterans, including 91 disabled veterans, representing 34% of total new agency hires. Most of these veterans handle benefit claims and help reduce Social Security's backlog of disability cases. Overall, veterans represent almost 10% of Social Security's current workforce.
"Hiring more veterans is a key element in Social Security's strategy to provide high quality service in a time of reduced agency funds," said Commissioner Astrue. "I appreciate the hard work of our veterans who continue to serve this nation and improve the lives of millions of Americans."