Military Spouse Employment Near Fort Knox

Finding meaningful employment as a military spouse is one of the persistent challenges of military life. The good news for spouses at Fort Knox: the Elizabethtown area has a diverse job market with opportunities across healthcare, education, retail, government, and the growing remote work sector. While it's not a major metro job market, the cost of living is low enough that even moderate incomes go a long way.

Major Employers in the Area

• Baptist Health Hardin (Hardin Memorial Health): The area's largest civilian employer, offering positions in nursing, medical support, administration, and allied health. Military spouse hiring preference is recognized.
• Hardin County & E-town Independent Schools: Teaching positions, substitute teaching, administrative roles, and support staff. Education credentials from other states generally transfer.
• Fort Knox (Civilian Positions): NAF and civil service positions on post. Military spouses receive hiring preference for many federal positions under Executive Order 13832.
• Retail & Hospitality: The Ring Road commercial corridor and North Dixie Highway offer numerous retail, restaurant, and service industry positions with flexible scheduling.
• Elizabethtown Community & Technical College (ECTC): Administrative and instructor positions at the local community college.

Remote Work

Remote work has been transformative for military spouse employment. Elizabethtown's affordable cost of living means a remote salary from a higher-cost area goes exceptionally far here. High-speed internet is available throughout E-town and most surrounding communities. Many spouses find that remote work provides the career continuity that frequent PCS moves traditionally disrupted.

Spouse Employment Resources

• MySECO (Military Spouse Education and Career Opportunities): Free career counseling, education assistance, and job search support
• Army Community Service (ACS) at Fort Knox: Employment readiness programs, resume workshops, and networking events
• Military Spouse Preference (MSP): Priority consideration for DoD positions
• Hiring Our Heroes Fellowship: Career fellowship programs for military spouses
• Kentucky Career Center: State workforce development resources in Elizabethtown

Licensing & Credential Transfer

Kentucky participates in several interstate compacts for professional licensing, making it easier for military spouses to transfer nursing, teaching, and other professional credentials. Check with the relevant Kentucky licensing board for your profession's specific requirements.