Washington, DC, has a strong economy, bolstered by federal operations based in the city. These account for a significant share of the city’s workforce. That said, only US citizens can take up government jobs, so expats will need to look to other industries if they plan on working in Washington, DC. Luckily, there are other options, with sectors such as tourism and services also making up a significant part of the city’s economy.
Job market in Washington, DC
Although the city’s largest employer is the US government, DC also has a number of top area industries closely related to, but not actually part of, the government. This opens up potential jobs for expats in sectors such as defence contracting, lobbying, non-profit organisations and publishing. In addition, many expats work closely with governmental agencies and are employed by overseas companies or foreign governments.
Professional and business services are increasingly becoming top employers in Washington, DC, with important sectors being healthcare, technology, hospitality, and education. The city is also home to multinational organisations such as the IMF and the World Bank, making it an attractive destination for finance professionals.
Finding a job in Washington, DC
Online portals are a good way to find a job in Washington, DC. Most major employers advertise vacant positions online, either on their own websites or through recruitment agencies. But above all else, networking is probably the most indispensable aspect of a job search in DC. In a city of politicians and lobbyists, it’s often who one knows, rather than what they know, that will go a long way to securing that dream job.
It’s worth noting that the cost of living in DC is one of the highest in the US, and new arrivals should ensure their salary is large enough to bear the cost. All foreign nationals working in DC must have a valid work permit for the USA.
Useful links
Work culture in Washington, DC
While most companies follow the typical 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday work schedule, this is not always the case in DC. For example, federal operations do not have such hours.
Much of DC’s population works incredibly hard, frequently working overtime. That said, there are companies in DC that offer a good work-life balance and a vibrant work culture, and new arrivals should do their research when applying to any company.
Business culture in the US is incredibly individualistic. The working world rewards ‘go-getters’ while those who lack independence, initiative, and self-reliance lag behind. Status and age are largely obsolete, and instead, merit, experience and past achievement are the vehicles for advancement. New arrivals coming from societies where seniority is a consequence of social class, length of service or maturity may find acclimating to this idea especially challenging.