Arbab Muhammad Arif joined Pakistan Administrative Service in 1985 and retired from the position of Registrar, Supreme Court of Pakistan. After his retirement, he contributed as member, FPSC. His illustrious career in the field included his postings as Deputy Commissioner Nawabshah in Sindh and Bannu in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. In addition, he served as Political Agent in Kurram, Mohmand, South and the strategic Khyber. At Secretariat level, he served as Secretary, Home and Tribal Affairs and Additional Chief Secretary FATA. His staff assignments included his posting as Secretary to the Governor, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Additional Secretary in the President Secretariat.