National Guard Salary By Rank: 13 Grades Explained

The National Guard is a reserve component of the United States Armed Forces that provides trained units to support civil authorities in times of crisis, as well as support federal missions abroad. As a member of the National Guard, individuals can serve their country while also pursuing civilian careers. One of the most significant benefits of serving in the National Guard is the competitive salary and benefits package.

Understanding the National Guard salary by rank is essential for individuals who are considering joining the National Guard or those who are already serving and want to know what to expect as they advance in rank. In this article, we will explore the 13 grades of the National Guard, the corresponding ranks, and the average salaries for each grade.

Grade E-1: Private (PVT)

The lowest rank in the National Guard is Private (PVT), which is equivalent to a Grade E-1. As a Private, individuals are considered entry-level soldiers who are in the process of completing their basic training. The average salary for a Private in the National Guard is around $1,733.10 per month.

Grade E-2: Private Second Class (PV2)

After completing their basic training, Privates are eligible for promotion to Private Second Class (PV2), which is equivalent to a Grade E-2. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have a basic understanding of military protocols and procedures. The average salary for a Private Second Class in the National Guard is around $1,942.50 per month.

Grade E-3: Private First Class (PFC)

Private First Class (PFC) is the next rank in the National Guard, equivalent to a Grade E-3. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have a higher level of responsibility and leadership skills. The average salary for a Private First Class in the National Guard is around $2,043.80 per month.

Grade E-4: Specialist/Corporal (SPC/CPL)

The rank of Specialist/Corporal (SPC/CPL) is equivalent to a Grade E-4 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have specialized skills and training in a specific area, such as communications or engineering. The average salary for a Specialist/Corporal in the National Guard is around $2,243.90 per month.

Grade E-5: Sergeant (SGT)

The rank of Sergeant (SGT) is equivalent to a Grade E-5 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have leadership skills and the ability to supervise and train other soldiers. The average salary for a Sergeant in the National Guard is around $2,554.70 per month.

Grade E-6: Staff Sergeant (SSG)

The rank of Staff Sergeant (SSG) is equivalent to a Grade E-6 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced leadership skills and the ability to supervise and train other soldiers. The average salary for a Staff Sergeant in the National Guard is around $2,864.70 per month.

Grade E-7: Sergeant First Class (SFC)

The rank of Sergeant First Class (SFC) is equivalent to a Grade E-7 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced leadership skills and the ability to supervise and train other soldiers. The average salary for a Sergeant First Class in the National Guard is around $3,185.80 per month.

Grade E-8: Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (MSG/1SG)

The rank of Master Sergeant/First Sergeant (MSG/1SG) is equivalent to a Grade E-8 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced leadership skills and the ability to supervise and train other soldiers. The average salary for a Master Sergeant/First Sergeant in the National Guard is around $3,599.60 per month.

Grade E-9: Sergeant Major (SGM)

The rank of Sergeant Major (SGM) is equivalent to a Grade E-9 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced leadership skills and the ability to supervise and train other soldiers. The average salary for a Sergeant Major in the National Guard is around $4,017.60 per month.

Grade W-1: Warrant Officer 1 (WO1)

The rank of Warrant Officer 1 (WO1) is equivalent to a Grade W-1 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have specialized skills and training in a specific area, such as aviation or engineering. The average salary for a Warrant Officer 1 in the National Guard is around $3,399.60 per month.

Grade W-2: Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2)

The rank of Chief Warrant Officer 2 (CW2) is equivalent to a Grade W-2 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced specialized skills and training in a specific area. The average salary for a Chief Warrant Officer 2 in the National Guard is around $3,794.70 per month.

Grade W-3: Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3)

The rank of Chief Warrant Officer 3 (CW3) is equivalent to a Grade W-3 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced specialized skills and training in a specific area. The average salary for a Chief Warrant Officer 3 in the National Guard is around $4,188.80 per month.

Grade W-4: Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4)

The rank of Chief Warrant Officer 4 (CW4) is equivalent to a Grade W-4 in the National Guard. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced specialized skills and training in a specific area. The average salary for a Chief Warrant Officer 4 in the National Guard is around $4,579.60 per month.

Grade W-5: Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5)

The highest rank in the National Guard is Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), which is equivalent to a Grade W-5. At this rank, soldiers are expected to have advanced specialized skills and training in a specific area. The average salary for a Chief Warrant Officer 5 in the National Guard is around $5,086.40 per month.

National Guard Salary By Rank Image Gallery

How is National Guard salary calculated?

+

National Guard salary is calculated based on the soldier's rank, time in service, and type of duty. The salary is also affected by the location and cost of living in the area where the soldier is serving.

What is the highest rank in the National Guard?

+

The highest rank in the National Guard is Chief Warrant Officer 5 (CW5), which is equivalent to a Grade W-5.

How often do National Guard soldiers receive pay raises?

+

National Guard soldiers typically receive pay raises annually, based on their time in service and performance evaluations.

In conclusion, understanding the National Guard salary by rank is essential for individuals who are considering joining the National Guard or those who are already serving and want to know what to expect as they advance in rank. The National Guard offers competitive salaries and benefits, as well as opportunities for education and career advancement. If you have any questions or concerns about National Guard salary or benefits, we encourage you to comment below or reach out to a recruiter for more information.