Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine what motivates individuals to pursue a career in the public sector from an Eligibility Worker and Eligibility Technician perspective. Theoretical Framework. The theoretical framework of the study is based on the research foundations of Human Motivation developed by Abraham H. Maslow (1943) and Frederick Herzberg (1959) followed by Public Service Motivation (PSM) Theory developed by James L. Perry and Lois R. Wise. Gene Brewer, Sally Selden, and Rex L. Facer II, (2000) who developed the public service motivational personalities, further expounded upon PSM. Methodology. A comparative study was executed between two Southern California public sector organizations. The research method consisted of a survey instrument being administered to a total of 99 voluntary participants. Data were analyzed utilizing the descriptive analysis of the frequency, bivariate analysis to correlate research variables, Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficients to show variances, ANOVA to analyze demographics, and gender was evaluated utilizing independent t tests to compare deviations between groups. Findings. The motivational factors that influence public sector employment selection do not vary considerably across public sector organizational boundaries. Individuals will find satisfaction by choosing a public sector career due to its great level of stability and the benefits offered. Demographic factors, such as age, gender, ethnicity, and educational level greatly fluctuate in the public sector organization, while the recruitment/selection process doesn't necessarily attract and may even deter individuals from pursuing a career in the public sector due to the rigor of the entire process. Conclusions and Recommendations. Public sector employment is a viable career option that has the prospect of satisfying its employees by offering a stable work environment, a diverse and educated workforce, and excellent benefits and perks for individuals who value their salary and can endure the rigidity of the recruitment/selection process. It is recommended that studies be administered to professional level workers in the fields of medicine, law enforcement, and fire prevention to determine if motivational factors vary among occupation. Further studies should include comparisons involving men versus women employed in public sector organizations to obtain their responses involving public sector motivation.