Employment

A major difficulty for families to overcome when relocating to the Stuttgart military community is the limited availability of employment for family members.

While Stuttgart is located in a very large metropolitan area, it should be considered a small town when it comes to the number of jobs to be found in the English-speaking American community. Spouses should be encouraged to know that jobs can be found with preparation and persistence, but it is recommended that you plan for a period of unemployment lasting as much as six months. Just as in many other small towns, individuals with very specialized professions such as nurses, lawyers, teachers and accountants may not find employment in these professions. For employment assistance in USAG Stuttgart contact ACS, DSN: (314) 596 3360/3362, e-mail: usarmy.stuttgart.id-europe.mbx.acs@army.mil

Documents to carry on hand include:

• College transcripts
• Updated resume
• Form SF-50, which shows leave without pay and career statuses
• Latest Leave and Earnings Statement
• Special awards or honors
• Names and numbers of at least three references
• Volunteer portfolio
• Letters of recommendation or appreciation

Professional or Occupational Licensing

Please check with your professional organization before leaving the United States to find out about certification and/or licensing procedures while you are residing in Germany. Several professional organizations have European branches that enable participation in networking opportunities, conferences and continuing education.

The following professions are highly encouraged to check with their professional licensing and/or certification organization to find out about membership in their European branches. The list is:

• Nursing
• Counseling and psychology
• Social work
• Education
• Occupational and physical therapy

Spouses of active-duty military have a one-time use of their Military Spouse Preference at each newly assigned duty station. Please consult with the Employment Readiness or the Civilian Personnel Advisory Center on all the MSP details before you apply for part-time, full-time, appropriated, nonappropriated and/or Post Exchange positions. Army Community Service - DSN: 314-596-3362 or CIV: +49-9641-70-596-3362.

The two major types of civilian government employment opportunities available are appropriated fund jobs paid for by tax dollars and nonappropriated fund jobs paid for by money generated locally from profits earned by Morale, Welfare and Recreation activities.

Home-based Businesses

Operating a home-based business is a possibility for employment overseas. Businesses that provide services are permitted but are subject to approval of the U.S. Army Garrison Stuttgart commander. There are several restrictions that apply to operating a home-based business. It is recommended to check with Army Community Service or Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation on these types of businesses. FMWR - DSN: 314-421-2622 or CIV: +49-711-729-2622.

Tips for the Overseas Job Seeker

• Budget for unemployment.
• Check professional licensing/certification requirements before leaving your present location
• Obtain social security cards before leaving your present location.
• Current federal employees should check with the local CPAC regarding priority placement and other benefits.
• Maintain a current listing of previous residences and dates to facilitate any background checks that may be required.

My Career Advancement Account Scholarship

For information on My Career Advancement Account Scholarship and Military Spouse Education and Career Opportunities, visit the MilitaryOneSource website.

While Stuttgart is located in a very large metropolitan area, it should be considered a small town when it comes to the number of jobs found in the English-speaking American community. Spouses should be encouraged to know that jobs can be found with preparation and persistence.

Spouses of active-duty military have a one-time use of their military spouse preference at each newly assigned duty station. For information about employment opportunities in the Stuttgart area, contact Army Community Service at DSN 314-596-3362 or +49-9641-70-596-3362.