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Permanent Secretary Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Cherokee Federal

Secretary I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify. The Secretary II provides intermediate to advanced ...

Cherokee Federal

Secretary I

Alexandria, VA · On-site

S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify. The Secretary II provides intermediate to advanced ...

ClearanceJobs

Secretary I Jobs

Alexandria, VA · On-site

S. citizens or legal permanent residents. You must provide documentation that you are a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident to qualify. The Secretary II provides intermediate to advanced ...

Defense Commissary Agency

Secretary

Portsmouth, VA · On-site +1

$46K - $59K/yr

Summary Serves as a Secretary (Office Automation) in a commissary store at a Defense Commissary ... Applicants with a Permanent Resident Card are authorized to live and work in the U.S. but are not ...

New

City of Norfolk, VA

Legal Secretary I - CWA

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$41K - $66K/yr

Regular full-time and permanent part-time employees may receive paid holidays, vacation and sick ... secretarial work? * Yes * No 04 How many years of experience do you have working in an office ...

State of Virginia

Secretary Senior

Hampton, VA

$42K - $64K/yr

Secretary Senior Apply now Job no: 5111317 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Hampton ... permanent resident of the United States and eligible for naturalization. Graduation from high ...

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Permanent Secretary information

See Virginia salary details

$24.3K

$45.6K

$62.5K

How much do permanent secretary jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for permanent secretary in Virginia is $45,551.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $37,200.00 and $52,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a Permanent Secretary?

A Permanent Secretary is the most senior civil servant in a government department or ministry, responsible for overseeing its day-to-day operations and providing non-political, expert advice to government ministers. They play a crucial role in implementing government policies, managing departmental staff, and ensuring the effective use of public resources. Unlike ministers, Permanent Secretaries are career officials, not political appointees, and their primary duty is to maintain continuity and stability within the civil service.

How does a Permanent Secretary typically interact with government ministers and departmental staff?

A Permanent Secretary acts as the most senior civil servant within a government department, serving as the principal adviser to ministers while also overseeing the department's day-to-day operations. This role requires balancing the strategic direction set by elected ministers with the practical implementation managed by departmental staff. Permanent Secretaries frequently facilitate communication between political leaders and civil service teams, ensuring that policy objectives are translated into effective, actionable plans. Collaboration, diplomacy, and clear communication are essential, as the role often involves managing complex stakeholder relationships and navigating sensitive issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Permanent Secretary, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Permanent Secretary, you need deep expertise in public administration, policy development, and organizational leadership, often supported by an advanced degree in public policy or a related field. Familiarity with government budgeting systems, performance management frameworks, and digital governance tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, political acumen, and strategic thinking are vital soft skills for influencing stakeholders and leading large teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring effective policy implementation, transparent governance, and the efficient functioning of public sector organizations.

What is the difference between Permanent Secretary vs Civil Service Officer?

AspectPermanent SecretaryCivil Service Officer
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees and extensive experience in government or public administrationVaries; often requires a degree in public administration, political science, or related fields
Work EnvironmentHigh-level government offices, policy development, strategic planningVarious government departments, supporting policy implementation and administrative tasks
Employer & Industry UsageGovernment ministries, public sector organizationsPublic sector, government agencies, civil service departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior government roles, leadership positionsEntry to mid-level civil service roles, career progression

In summary, a Permanent Secretary is a senior government official responsible for overseeing entire ministries, often requiring extensive experience and advanced credentials. A Civil Service Officer typically holds a supporting role within government departments, with responsibilities varying based on experience and department level. Both roles are integral to public administration but differ significantly in seniority and scope.

What are the most commonly searched types of Secretary jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Secretary jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Permanent Secretary jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Permanent Secretary job openings:

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