How techies can move from private to public sector in 2025

New Year, new sector? That’s certainly the question that a chunk of technology job board users will likely ask themselves this January, and some will even answer with a resounding ‘Yes.’

And understandably so. In fact, transitioning from the private sector to the public sector can be a rewarding IT career move, especially if you’re a technology professional whose skills are sought-after and who values serving the public.

A timely transition? The private-to-public move is a hot ticket at this time of year

With increased demand in government and public service for technology-driven solutions, more job board users are exploring this shift.

And the New Year is ripe in almost everybody’s consciousness for exploring afresh!

Here, exclusively for Free-Work, is my step-by-step guide to help you make a successful transition into public sector tech roles, even if your experience is entirely commercial, writes Ben Quinn, head of technology recruitment at staffing giant Leap29.

Five steps to transfer from private sector tech to public sector tech

Step 1: Identify core transferable tech skills

Start by identifying two or three key technical skills that are not only advertised as relevant to public sector needs but also transferable across sectors.

In the public sector right now (Q1 2025), the following skills are often highly valued:

-          Cybersecurity and information security

Public sector roles frequently require robust security knowledge due to sensitive data management. Experience in cybersecurity frameworks, encryption, and compliance standards can make you a strong candidate.

-          Cloud computing and infrastructure management

Public sector organisations increasingly use cloud technologies like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud. Knowledge of cloud migration, cloud security, and cost optimisation is highly transferable.

-          Data Analytics and AI/ML

The public sector has a growing focus on data-driven decisions.

Skills in data analysis, machine learning, and predictive analytics -- especially if you’re familiar with Power BI, SQL, or Python, can offer strong appeal, as many government agencies need to modernise data handling for efficiency.

While the above are some common transferable skills if you’re looking to move from private to public sector for IT jobs, it’s not all about the ‘hard’ aspects of your skillset.

Put another way, it’s not just the technical aspects in your locker that you need to consider!

What ‘soft skills’ does the public sector want from tech workers in 2025?

So-called ‘soft skills’ like collaboration, adaptability, and communication (particularly with non-technical stakeholders) are also essential competencies to have in the eyes of taxpayer-funded organisations that actively take on techies.

Keep in mind if you’re looking at which of your soft skills to develop that public sector projects often involve cross-functional teams and high levels of accountability.

Step 2: Adapt your CV for government jobs

Highlight your technical skills with an emphasis on how they’ve added value in your private sector roles.

As a process, public sector tech hiring often prioritises problem-solving, mission-driven results, and an understanding of compliance.

The trick is to therefore make sure you include the following in your CV:

• Quantifiable achievements

Focus on the tangible outcomes of your work, especially those involving efficiency, cost savings, or security enhancements.

• Keywords from public sector job descriptions

Each job description may emphasise specific skills or technologies, so tailor your CV to echo these keywords.

Public sector roles may look for proficiency in compliance standards like GDPR or data privacy practices, so list any relevant certifications or experience that matches these needs.

• Mission-driven language

Emphasise your alignment with the public sector’s goal of public service.

For example, mention any volunteer work, non-profit experience, or initiatives that showcase your commitment to impactful, not-for-profit work.

Step 3: Understand the differences in recruitment (compared to private hiring processes)

The public sector’s tech worker hiring process can be more complex and involve additional steps compared to the private sector.

Some key differences include:

-          Longer time-to-hire

The recruitment process in government roles often involves more rounds and longer timelines, as agencies and end-users prioritise security clearances and thorough assessments.

-          Clearance requirements

Certain roles may require security clearances, which can add extra steps to the hiring process. If you don’t already have security clearance, or it’s lapsed, be prepared for background checks and security vetting.

-          Structured interview format

Public sector interviews tend to be more structured and may focus on scenario-based questions or specific technical evaluations.

So it’s a good idea to research commonly used public sector frameworks, like the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method, to prepare for interviews.

Step 4: Research entry points and contract opportunities  

The public sector often offers up contracting and temporary roles, which can be an excellent way to gain government experience without a long-term commitment.

Here’s how to leverage different entry points:

• Apply for fixed-term contracts or project-based roles: Many government agencies hire contractors for specific IT projects, which can provide great opportunities to gain experience and demonstrate your value.

  Contract roles often lead to permanent positions -- assuming the agency is satisfied with your work!

• Consider dedicated temporary job agencies: Some staffing agencies specialise in public sector placements. These agencies understand government requirements and can help you transition more smoothly.

• Explore public sector job boards: Websites like USAJOBS (in the US), NHS Jobs (in the UK), and APS Jobs (Australia) publish government roles and often include temporary and contract gigs, which can serve as a solid introduction to public sector work.

Step 5: Gain certification and show an understanding of compliance and public sector standards

Compliance is often more heavily emphasised in the public sector than in the private sector (save for tech roles at banks and financial institutions), especially in areas like data privacy, cybersecurity, and operational standards.

Here are a few key ways to increase your alignment with public sector requirements:

-          Obtain relevant certifications: Consider certifications that are frequently recognised in the public sector, such as CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional, or Certified Information Systems Auditor for cybersecurity.

For cloud and data management, certifications from AWS, Microsoft, or Google Cloud can also be beneficial.

-          Familiarise yourself with relevant standards: Get up to speed with standards like GDPR (for EU roles), FedRAMP (in the US), and other frameworks that prioritise security, data privacy, and operational compliance.

Mentioning these on your CV and in interviews can reinforce your readiness for public sector work.

Step 6: Build a network of public sector connections (includes us recruitment agents!)

Lastly, tap into a network of professionals within the public sector to gain insights and discover job opportunities.

Here are three top tips on how to build such a network:

• Join LinkedIn groups or attend conferences: Subscribe to LinkedIn groups or industry conferences related to public sector IT, where you can engage with professionals who have transitioned from the private sector.

• Informational interviews: Reach out to public sector employees/contractors on LinkedIn, especially those whose profiles show they have made the transition from the private sector. Ask about their experience, what challenges they faced, and how they adapted their private sector skills for government work.

• Stay connected to public sector tech recruiters: Some IT recruiters specialise in public sector roles. Letting them know your interests and expertise may help you hear about roles that might not be publicly advertised. Such roles can offer premium rates.

Moving from private sector tech to public sector tech in 2025, in a nutshell…

By identifying the right skills, adapting your CV, understanding the recruitment process, and proactively networking, you can strategically position yourself for a successful transition into the public sector tech space. And once you make the jump, you’ll be well-placed to bring private sector agility and problem-solving into a new context, making a powerful impact on crucial government initiatives that have service -- and not profit-making -- at their heart.