Where Top Talent Is Emerging Now: Government Layoffs and New Opportunities for Employers
In 2025, major changes in the federal workforce are creating new opportunities for employers looking to hire exceptional talent. Several government agencies have recently undergone large-scale layoffs, releasing highly skilled professionals into the job market — many of whom are now open to private sector opportunities.
If your organization is looking to add experienced professionals with backgrounds in healthcare, compliance, data analysis, project management, and administration, now is the time to act.
Agencies Seeing the Largest Layoffs:
- Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS):
CMS recently laid off approximately 300 employees, including healthcare analysts, project coordinators, and outreach specialists.
(Source) - Health and Human Services (HHS) and Subsidiary Agencies:
Broader cuts across HHS (impacting CDC, NIH, FDA, and CMS) have resulted in an estimated 20,000 displaced workers, many of whom have expertise in public health, research, operations, and regulatory affairs.
(Source) - Internal Revenue Service (IRS):
Workforce reductions tied to modernization efforts have opened up a new pool of finance, auditing, and administrative talent ready for private sector transitions.
(Source)
How to Access This Talent Pool:
- Look to Professional Platforms:
Many displaced federal employees are turning to LinkedIn, ZipRecruiter, and Indeed to begin their private-sector job searches. - Actively Search for Federal Experience:
Filter candidates based on backgrounds with CMS, HHS, or other government agencies; these professionals often bring strengths in compliance, process management, reporting, and working within highly regulated environments. - Move Quickly:
Many of these candidates are highly attractive and already fielding multiple offers — both from private companies and government contractors. A streamlined hiring process will be crucial.
Why This Matters:
Government-trained professionals bring a depth of regulatory, operational, and service-oriented expertise that can add immediate value to your teams. Especially in industries like healthcare, insurance, compliance, and finance, tapping into this newly available talent can offer a significant competitive advantage.
We’re helping clients connect with these candidates right now — if you’re looking to strengthen your teams, let’s talk.
