Veterans' Preference

Welcome to the Veterans' Preference page, brought to you by the Office of Human Resources at Florida State University (FSU). We are very thankful for your service, and we are pleased that you are considering employment at FSU.

FSU is committed to honoring the preference given by Florida law to U.S. Veterans, and the spouses and family members of Veterans, in appointment and retention in employment. We encourage eligible persons to apply for any open, qualified positions and pledge to comply with Veterans' preference guidelines when filling these positions.

The Veterans Alliance arrowhead is the proud symbol of Florida State University's campus-wide commitment to become a national beacon of veteran support and success. We invite you to view our current openings, utilize the available resources, and consider Human Resources a partner in your job search.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Veterans' Preference?

Under Florida law, Veterans' Preference at FSU is applicable to University Support Personnel System (USPS) positions only.

FSU uses a non-points based system; therefore, if an applicant qualifies for Veterans' Preference and the USPS position, preference is given at every step in the selection process. At the first step, the eligible applicant who meets the qualifications, is shown preference by the guarantee of an interview. Veterans' Preference is not a guarantee of a job, as the final choice is based upon who the decision maker believes is the most qualified.

What are the categories under which I can claim veterans' preference?

Per Section 295.07, Florida Statutes:

  1. The state and its political subdivisions shall give preference in appointment and retention in positions of employment to:
    1. Those disabled veterans:
      1. Who have served on active duty in any branch of the United States Armed Forces, have received an honorable discharge, and have established the present existence of a service-connected disability that is compensable under public laws administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs; or
      2. Who are receiving compensation, disability retirement benefits, or pension by reason of public laws administered by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and the United States Department of Defense.
    2. The spouse of a person who has a total disability, permanent in nature, resulting from a service-connected disability and who, because of this disability, cannot qualify for employment, and the spouse of a person missing in action, captured in line of duty by a hostile force, or forcibly detained or interned in line of duty by a foreign government or power.
    3. A wartime veteran as defined in s. 1.01(14), who has served at least 1 day during a wartime period. Active duty for training may not be allowed for eligibility under this paragraph.
    4. The unremarried widow or widower of a veteran who died of a service-connected disability.
    5. The mother, father, legal guardian, or unremarried widow or widower of a member of the United States Armed Forces who died in the line of duty under combat-related conditions, as verified by the United States Department of Defense.
    6. A veteran as defined in s. 1.01(14). Active duty for training may not be allowed for eligibility under this paragraph.
    7. A current member of any reserve component of the United States Armed Forces or the Florida National Guard.

 

How do I claim Veterans' Preference?

If one of the categories above is applicable to you, complete the following before midnight of the position closing date in order to claim Veterans' Preference:

  • Apply for an USPS position and meet the qualifications for the position;
  • Attach the Required Documentation to support your claim with each application you submit;
    • A Veteran must be discharged with nothing less than an Honorable discharge as indicated on the DD214 or equivalent documentation; and
  • Answer "Yes" to the following question on each application you submit: "Are you claiming Veterans' Preference?".

Why is FSU a great place to work?

One of the nation's elite research universities, Florida State University preserves, expands, and disseminates knowledge in the sciences, technology, arts, humanities, and professions, while embracing a philosophy of learning strongly rooted in the traditions of the liberal arts and critical thinking.

People choose to work at Florida State University for many reasons, and there are even more reasons why they stay for a career. At FSU, there's the excitement of being part of a vibrant academic and professional community, surrounded by people whose ideas are shaping tomorrow's news. In your search for new employment opportunities, please take advantage of the many resources that only a world-class university can provide.

Click here for more facts about FSU.

What benefits does FSU offer their employees?

FSU has a robust benefits offering. Click here for Benefits Summary Sheets outlining the variety of benefits available to FSU employees.

Visit the Student Veterans Center page for information pertaining to Student Veteran Benefits.

Where can I find additional resources?

The Human Resources Veteran Liaison vision is to build a lasting partnership with current and future veteran employees by playing an active role in the recruitment and retention of veteran applicants at the University.

What if I have questions about claiming Veterans' Preference?

If you have questions or need assistance with the application process, please contact HR-Employment & Recruitment Services at veteran-jobs@fsu.edu or (850)-644-6034.