Employment is extremely competitive due to the absence of
industrial opportunities in the Waynesville/St. Robert, and Fort Leonard Wood
area. The majority of employment opportunities available to Fort Leonard Wood
family members can be found through the Missouri Dept of Work Force Development,
Army Air Force Exchange Services (AAFES), Mid Missouri Credit Union and some
contractors. For more information contact the Missouri Department of Workforce
Development.
Wages usually fall significantly below the national
averages. Many jobs in the local area start at minimum wage for clerical and
sales positions. Jobs are available in the private sector for those who are
willing to commute to surrounding communities, seek employment diligently, lower
their expectations regarding wages and are flexible in their hours. On-post
positions are available through civil service and non-appropriated funds;
however, due to contracting out of services and employment cuts these positions
are very few and competitive. Good prospects for employment are found in
nursing, service positions and fast food. Lower paying clerical and general
administrative positions can be found as well.
The minimum legal working
age is 16 years in the State of Missouri. High School students must get a work
permit through the school in order to work. This must be approved by the parent
or guardian and local establishments have set hours for students. The Missouri
Department of Workforce Development can also provide information and guidelines
regarding student hire.