Intro
Discover 10 military careers that translate to civilian life, leveraging your skills and experience. Explore transferable jobs in fields like cybersecurity, logistics, and aviation. Learn how military veterans can find fulfilling careers in the private sector, utilizing their unique expertise in areas like intelligence, engineering, and project management.
The allure of a military career is strong, but not everyone is suited for or interested in a life of service. However, many of the skills and roles that are crucial to the military are also in high demand in the civilian world. If you're drawn to the idea of a military career but don't want to enlist, there are plenty of options available to you.
The military is a unique institution that requires a wide range of specialized skills and expertise. From logistics and supply chain management to cybersecurity and intelligence analysis, the military relies on a diverse array of professionals to keep its operations running smoothly. And while some of these roles may be exclusive to the military, many others can be replicated in the civilian world.
Here, we'll explore 10 military careers that you can have as a civilian, along with the skills and qualifications you'll need to get started.
1. Cybersecurity Specialist
Cybersecurity is a critical concern for organizations of all kinds, and the skills you'll learn in the military can be applied directly to a civilian career in this field. As a cybersecurity specialist, you'll be responsible for protecting computer systems and networks from cyber threats, developing and implementing security protocols, and responding to incidents.
Skills needed:
- CompTIA Security+ or equivalent certification
- Experience with security information and event management (SIEM) systems
- Knowledge of threat analysis and incident response
Salary range:
- $60,000 - $120,000 per year
2. Logistics Coordinator
Logistics coordinators play a vital role in ensuring that goods and supplies get where they need to go on time and on budget. In the military, logistics coordinators are responsible for managing the flow of supplies and equipment to troops in the field. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from manufacturing to retail.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, or a related field
- Experience with logistics software and systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Salary range:
- $40,000 - $80,000 per year
3. Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence analysts are responsible for gathering and analyzing data to help organizations make informed decisions. In the military, intelligence analysts work to identify and assess potential threats to national security. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from finance to law enforcement.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as international relations or politics
- Experience with data analysis and statistical software
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Salary range:
- $60,000 - $100,000 per year
4. Pilot
Pilots are in high demand in both the military and civilian worlds. As a civilian pilot, you can fly for a commercial airline, charter company, or private corporation.
Skills needed:
- Commercial pilot's license
- Experience with multi-engine aircraft
- Strong communication and navigation skills
Salary range:
- $50,000 - $150,000 per year
5. Emergency Management Specialist
Emergency management specialists work to prepare for and respond to natural disasters and other emergencies. In the military, this role involves coordinating disaster response efforts and providing support to affected communities. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from government to healthcare.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in emergency management or a related field
- Experience with emergency management software and systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Salary range:
- $50,000 - $90,000 per year
6. Communications Specialist
Communications specialists play a vital role in ensuring that organizations can communicate effectively with their stakeholders. In the military, communications specialists work to maintain and operate communication systems, including radios and satellite equipment. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from marketing to public relations.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in communications or a related field
- Experience with communication systems and software
- Strong writing and verbal communication skills
Salary range:
- $40,000 - $80,000 per year
7. Data Analyst
Data analysts work to gather and analyze data to help organizations make informed decisions. In the military, data analysts work to analyze data on enemy movements and other tactical information. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from finance to healthcare.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as mathematics or computer science
- Experience with data analysis software and systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Salary range:
- $60,000 - $100,000 per year
8. Engineer
Engineers design and develop solutions to complex problems. In the military, engineers work to design and develop new technologies and systems, such as aircraft and vehicles. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from aerospace to biomedical engineering.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as mechanical or electrical engineering
- Experience with engineering software and systems
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Salary range:
- $70,000 - $120,000 per year
9. Linguist
Linguists work to analyze and interpret languages. In the military, linguists work to translate and interpret foreign languages, including those spoken by enemies. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from translation to education.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as linguistics or language studies
- Experience with language analysis software and systems
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Salary range:
- $50,000 - $90,000 per year
10. Human Resources Specialist
Human resources specialists work to recruit, train, and develop employees. In the military, human resources specialists work to manage personnel records and provide support to troops. In the civilian world, this role can be applied to a wide range of industries, from finance to healthcare.
Skills needed:
- Bachelor's degree in human resources or a related field
- Experience with human resources software and systems
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Salary range:
- $40,000 - $80,000 per year
Military Careers Image Gallery
What are the most in-demand military careers in the civilian world?
+The most in-demand military careers in the civilian world include cybersecurity specialist, logistics coordinator, intelligence analyst, pilot, and engineer.
What skills do I need to be a cybersecurity specialist?
+To be a cybersecurity specialist, you'll need CompTIA Security+ or equivalent certification, experience with security information and event management (SIEM) systems, and knowledge of threat analysis and incident response.
How much can I earn as a logistics coordinator?
+As a logistics coordinator, you can earn between $40,000 and $80,000 per year, depending on your experience and location.
If you're interested in a military career but don't want to enlist, there are many options available to you in the civilian world. From cybersecurity specialist to logistics coordinator, these roles can be just as challenging and rewarding as their military counterparts. By leveraging the skills and expertise you've gained through education or experience, you can find a fulfilling career that aligns with your interests and values.