11 government jobs that offer older Americans stable income, great benefits—and no age limits

At a time when many older Americans are delaying retirement or seeking ways to supplement their Social Security income, government jobs offer something increasingly rare in today's job market: employers who actually value age and experience. Government agencies at federal, state, and local levels are actively recruiting older workers—and for good reason.

"The government views age as an asset," explains this growing trend that's reshaping the public sector workforce. With 28% of federal employees now over age 55, according to the Office of Personnel Management, government agencies are recognizing that older workers bring reliability, institutional knowledge, and strong interpersonal skills that are essential for effective public service.

Whether you're looking to make a stable living, earn extra income to offset rising inflation, or simply stay engaged in meaningful work, these 11 government positions offer attractive benefits, flexible schedules, and the chance to make a real difference in your community. Best of all? There are no mandatory retirement ages for most positions, meaning you can work as long as you want.

1. Census Taker: Help Shape America's Future

Working under the US Census Bureau means you'll be collecting critical housing and population data that determines congressional representation and how billions in federal funds are distributed. This isn't just data entry—it's democracy in action.

The Census Bureau has signed the AARP Employer Pledge, demonstrating its commitment to hiring older Americans. Census takers conduct interviews over the phone or in person, making this perfect for those with strong communication skills and community connections.

2. Poll Worker: Protect Democracy at the Grassroots

With elections happening year-round—not just during presidential years—poll workers are in constant demand. You'll assist your local election office by checking in voters, verifying registrations, and helping citizens navigate the voting process.

Beyond the civic pride of protecting democratic processes, poll workers receive generous compensation. Many jurisdictions pay not just for election day work, but also for mandatory training sessions, supply pickups, and election night ballot drop-offs.

3. Park Ranger: Share Your Love of Nature

Forget the image of rangers chasing bears or fighting wildfires—interpretive park rangers focus on education and visitor services. Whether working for the National Park Service or local park agencies, you'll lead tours, staff visitor centers, and share fascinating historical and environmental information.

These positions offer remarkable flexibility with full-time, part-time, seasonal, and temporary options available. Many parks specifically seek older workers who can relate to the predominantly senior visitor demographic.

4. Tax Preparer: Turn Tax Knowledge into Income

The IRS actively recruits certified tax preparers, especially during tax season. After obtaining your Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) and becoming an enrolled agent, you can help fellow citizens navigate one of life's most stressful annual tasks.

What makes this particularly attractive for seniors is the complete flexibility—choose your own hours, work part-time or seasonally, and even work remotely from home. Many preparers work intensively from January to April, then enjoy the rest of the year off.

5. Postal Service Clerk or Mail Carrier

The United States Postal Service consistently ranks among the top federal employers of older workers. While mail carrier positions require physical stamina, clerical roles offer predictable hours and indoor work environments perfect for seniors.

USPS positions come with the full suite of federal benefits, including coverage under Social Security and Medicare, plus additional perks many don't realize.

Also read: What are these seniors doing after retirement? It may warm your heart

6. Veterans Affairs Administrative Assistant

The VA health system—America's largest integrated healthcare network—continually needs administrative support staff. These positions involve filing, scheduling, and patient coordination, leveraging organizational skills that many seniors have honed over decades.

Working at the VA offers unique satisfaction, especially for veterans themselves or those with military family members. The VA particularly values older workers who understand the needs and challenges of the veteran community.

7. School Crossing Guard: Be a Community Hero

Cities and municipalities specifically target older adults for crossing guard positions, recognizing their reliability and natural authority. Working just 2-4 hours per day during school hours, this role offers a perfect work-life balance.

While the work is part-time, many districts offer surprisingly generous benefits, including health coverage and bonuses for perfect attendance. Some crossing guards report earning $15-25 per hour, making this an excellent income supplement.

8. Library Assistant: Surround Yourself with Knowledge

Public libraries need reliable staff for checking out materials, assisting with computers, and maintaining quiet, welcoming environments. The slow pace and peaceful atmosphere make this ideal for seniors who enjoy books and helping others learn.

Many libraries now offer technology training programs where older assistants help peers learn computer skills—a perfect example of seniors helping seniors. Benefits often include public pension access and generous paid time off.

9. Court Clerk: Support the Justice System

Courts desperately need detail-oriented workers to handle documentation, scheduling, and public assistance. The regular 9-5 schedule and predictable workflow appeal to seniors seeking structure without stress.

Federal court positions include access to the Federal Employees' Group Life Insurance program and the prestigious Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHBP), often considered the gold standard in employer health coverage.

Also read: Are you missing out on these 10 easy retirement payouts? See what extra money you could be claiming!

10. State Unemployment Call Center Representative

Each state's unemployment system needs patient, empathetic representatives to help claimants navigate complex requirements. This desk-based role requires strong interpersonal skills—something many seniors have developed over a lifetime.

With the rise of remote work in government, many states now offer work-from-home options for call center positions. This means you can serve your community from the comfort of your living room, eliminating commute concerns.

11. Social Security Administration Claims Assistant

Who better to help navigate Social Security than someone who understands the system firsthand? Claims assistants guide applicants through benefits applications, offering empathy and expertise that younger workers simply can't match.

The position offers exceptional federal benefits: 13 paid vacation days (increasing to 20 after three years), 13 sick days, 11 federal holidays, and comprehensive life insurance. Plus, you'll gain invaluable knowledge about maximizing your own Social Security benefits.

How to Get Started: Your Action Plan

Ready to join the growing ranks of seniors in government service? Here's your roadmap to landing one of these positions:

• Visit USAJOBS.gov: The federal government's official employment site lists thousands of openings. Use filters to find part-time or seasonal work.
• Check state and local job boards: Many positions like crossing guards and library assistants are posted on city or county websites.
• Leverage senior-specific resources: Programs like the Senior Community Service Employment Program (SCSEP) provide job training and placement assistance specifically for older workers, though funding concerns mean you should act quickly.
• Network through senior centers: Many government agencies recruit directly through local senior centers and AARP chapters.
• Highlight your strengths: Emphasize reliability, experience, and strong work ethic—qualities government employers specifically seek in older workers.

Addressing Common Concerns

"Will working affect my Social Security?" If you've reached full retirement age, you can earn unlimited income without affecting benefits.

"Can I handle the technology?" Most government positions provide comprehensive training, and many agencies specifically value workers who can relate to citizens uncomfortable with technology. Your patience and communication skills often matter more than tech expertise.

"Is age discrimination really not an issue?" Federal law prohibits age discrimination, and government agencies face stricter oversight than private employers. The statistics speak for themselves—the government employs a higher percentage of older workers than almost any other sector.

Also read: Older Americans are delaying retirement—why working after 65 is quickly becoming the new normal

The Bigger Picture: Why Government Needs You

As baby boomers reshape the workforce, government agencies face a unique challenge: massive retirements are creating skill gaps just as citizen services demand increases. Older workers offer the perfect solution—experienced professionals who understand public service and can mentor younger employees.

Don't let age be a barrier to new opportunities. With government agencies actively recruiting older workers and offering flexibility, benefits, and job security that private employers rarely match, now might be the perfect time to begin your public service career. After all, your experience isn't just welcome in government—it's essential.

Read next:

• Essential financial resources for seniors: 25 programs that can help
• 15 surprising jobs seniors are landing right now—and how you can too
• Looking for work later in life? Here are 7 smart job-hunting strategies for older adults

Key Takeaways

• Government jobs in the US actively welcome senior workers, valuing their life experience, reliability, and community connections, with no mandatory retirement age for many roles.
• There is a wide range of government employment options well-suited to older adults, such as a census taker, poll worker, park ranger, tax preparer, postal worker, administrative assistant, school crossing guard, library assistant, court clerk, call center representative, and claims assistant.
• Most of these roles offer attractive benefits for seniors, including health and dental insurance, paid leave, flexible work hours or remote work, pension plans, and additional incentives like bonuses and complimentary national park access.
• Older Americans interested in similar roles might take note that the US government values older workers highly—with 28% of federal employees over 55—showing public sector jobs are an ideal avenue for staying active and supplementing income in retirement.

Have you worked a government job in retirement? Are you considering a new role, or do you have questions about the application process? Share your stories, tips, and questions in the comments below! Your experience could inspire someone else to take the leap.