Employment

Because Fort Irwin and Barstow are small communities, the job market is very competitive. Since Barstow has a moderate unemployment rate, many Barstow residents willingly commute the 40 miles to Fort Irwin. This should not, however, discourage spouses from applying. Vacancies occur regularly and family members do fill many civil service vacancies.

Fort Irwin contractors are major employers in the area. There are various contractors on post offering a wide range of jobs. Contractors include DynCorp, Technica, LLC, and Valiant International Services and various others. Other employers include The Exchange (PX), Commissary, local schools, Nonappropriated Funds (NAF), and Michaels Management (Housing).

It may take time to find employment, but persistent applicants do succeed. Maintaining a positive attitude, being prepared and taking chances can contribute to a positive job search. Many spouses elect to volunteer while seeking employment as this offers an opportunity to network with people who are familiar with the job market, Build skills and experience on a resume, and help contribute to the community.

If you plan on applying for employment be sure to bring necessary documentation (i.e. resume, school transcripts, past employment records, professional certificates, and necessary information needed to complete applications).

Appropriated Fund (APF)

Appropriated Fund (APF) positions are also known as General Schedule (GS) or Wage Grade (WG) positions. If you plan to apply for an APF position, you must apply on-line under USAJOBS. You must submit required documents, as stated in the announcement when applying for the position.

Military Spouses may apply for positions under Executive Order 13473 which came into effect Sept. 11, 2009; if they meet the eligibility requirements. The military spouse and military member must be married prior to the issuance of the PCS orders. The 2-year window for appointment eligibility applies to eligible spouses seeking consideration for positions filled on either a temporary, term or permanent basis. The 2-year window begins with the date of the orders.

Military Spouse Preference Program. The MSP falls under the Department of Defense's broader Priority Placement Program and gives preferences to military spouses applying for certain DoD positions. Be sure to register for MSP to take advantage of the program. You can apply for the program through your local Civilian Personnel or Human Resources Office.

Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF)

Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) positions include NA, NF, CY, NL, etc. If you plan to apply for an NAF position, you must apply on-line under USAJOBS. You must submit required documents, as stated in the announcement when applying for the position.

To ensure that Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) is afforded to all individuals based solely on merit, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin and mental or physical disability, and GINA. Other functions consist of processing discrimination complaints (individual and class); providing advice and assistance in the development and implementation of the Diversity Program, Affirmative Employment program Plan, Respect and Infinite Dignity. The EEO office is located in Bldg. 312, 1st and F Avenue and can be reached at 760-380-7339 or 760-380-4961. Hours of operation are Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

MyCAA

For information on MyCAA and Military Spouse Education and Career Opportunities, visit Military OneSource.

Fort Irwin and Barstow are small communities the job market is very competitive. The US average unemployment rate is 6.0%. as of 2023