Career Paths for Military Veterans in 2023
This article lists top career options, ranging from IT and engineering to finance and healthcare. The median wage summarizes the salary for each job, which refers to the dividing line between the highest and lowest (50:50) pay of workers in a particular position or occupation. It provides a precise representation of the average wage as it eliminates the extremes on both ends of the scale.
IT Jobs for Former Military
Cybersecurity Specialist - $91,498
Systems Administrator - $79,588
Network Engineer - $106,738
Database Administrator - $84,636
DevOps Engineer - $105,561
IT Project Manager - $94247
Technical Support Specialist - $59,443
Business Analyst - $74,028
Software Developer - $87,521
Information Technology (IT) Consultant - $84,790
Web Developers and Digital Designers - $51,000 to $80,000
These positions can be found in a variety of industries, including government, finance, healthcare, and technology. With their experience in working with complex systems and solving problems under pressure, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the fast-paced and constantly evolving field of IT. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and strong work ethic that military veterans bring to the table.
Accounting Jobs for Former Military
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) - $76,693
Financial Analyst - $73,359
Auditor - $54,853
Tax Specialist - $52,354 to $65,700
Cost Accountant - $65,193
Financial Planner - $54,172 to $70,603
Management Accountant - $111,201
Bookkeeper - $42,751
Budget Analyst - $74,512
These positions can be found in a variety of settings, including accounting firms, corporations, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. With their experience in finance, management, and problem-solving, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the accounting field. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, attention to detail, and leadership skills that military veterans bring to the table.
Advertising Jobs for Former Military
Account Manager - $55,153 to $80,351
Brand Strategist - $65,392
Copywriter - $47,720
Creative Director - $144,229
Media Planner - $61383
Marketing Analyst - $66,792
Sales Representative - $52,140 to $70,660
Public Relations Specialist - $50,582
Digital Marketing Specialist - $53,846
Social Media Manager - $51,910
These positions can be found in advertising agencies, marketing departments of corporations, media companies, and non-profit organizations. With their experience in communication, leadership, and problem-solving, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the advertising field. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and attention to detail that military veterans bring to the table.
Finance Jobs for Former Military
Financial Analyst - $73,359
Investment Banker - $95,000
Portfolio Manager - $104,623
Risk Management Specialist - $95,076 to $115,011
Financial Advisor - $112,040
Loan Officer - $88,726
Insurance Agent - $53,933
Treasury Manager - $108,231 to $142,842
Financial Planner - $54,172 to $70,603
Compliance Officer - $65,718
These positions can be found in financial institutions, investment firms, insurance companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. With their experience in management, problem-solving, and attention to detail, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the finance field. Additionally, many organizations value the leadership, discipline, and strong work ethic that military veterans bring to the table.
Marketing Jobs for Former Military
Brand Strategist - $65,392
Marketing Manager - $100,538 to $131,538
Product Manager - $118,570
Market Researcher - $56,527 to $69,489
Sales Representative - $52,140 to $70,660
Digital Marketer - $65,980
Public Relations Specialist - $50,582
Account Manager - $55,153 to $80,351
Event Marketer - $37,050
Content Marketer - $58,554
These positions can be found in marketing departments of corporations, advertising agencies, media companies, and non-profit organizations. With their experience in communication, leadership, and problem-solving, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the marketing field. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and attention to detail that military veterans bring to the table.
Department of Defense Jobs for Former Military
Contract Specialist - $73,959
Program Manager - $91674
Logistics Specialist - $47,226
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Cybersecurity Specialist - $91,498
Operations Research Analyst - $89,558
Financial Management Specialist - $70,748
Project Manager - $106,601
Human Resources Specialist - $78,247
Procurement Specialist - $58,500
These positions can be found in various branches of the military, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines, as well as in the Department of Defense's headquarters and supporting organizations. With their experience in leadership, management, and problem-solving, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the DoD. Additionally, many organizations within the DoD value the discipline, teamwork, and attention to detail that military veterans bring to the table.
Business Intelligence Jobs for Former Military
Data Analyst - $80,638
Business Intelligence Developer - $94,278
Business Intelligence Manager - $140,990
Data Scientist - $125,053
Market Research Analyst - $56,527 to $69,489
Sales Operations Analyst - $76,000
Financial Analyst - $73,359
Supply Chain Analyst - $82,603 to $108,103
Marketing Analytics Manager - $112,742
Customer Intelligence Analyst - $74,998
These positions can be found in a wide range of industries, including finance, healthcare, technology, retail, and government. With a Business Intelligence degree, former military personnel can leverage their analytical skills and attention to detail to help organizations make data-driven decisions and drive growth. Additionally, many businesses value the leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that military veterans bring to the table.
Homeland Security Jobs for Former Military
Border Patrol Agent - $46,060
Customs and Border Protection Officer - $87,173
Cybersecurity Specialist - $91,498
Emergency Management Specialist - $55,257
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Transportation Security Specialist - $53,264
Federal Air Marshal - $89295
Physical Security Specialist - $66,720
Counterterrorism Analyst - $78,430
Disaster Response Coordinator - $49,305 to $63,246
These positions are available at various government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA). A degree in Homeland Security can also provide a strong foundation for a career in private security, consulting, or other related industries.
CIA Jobs for Former Military
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Counterterrorism Analyst - $78,430
Cybersecurity Specialist - $91,498
Operations Officer - $78,835
Technical Operations Officer - $92,248
Collection Management Officer - $45,606 to $56,055
Security Professional - $41,764
Language Analyst - $64,862 to $79,463
Signals Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Open Source Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
These positions can be found within the CIA and other intelligence agencies, as well as in the private sector. With their experience in intelligence gathering, analysis, and security, former military personnel with CIA experience are well-positioned to succeed in a variety of roles that require strong critical thinking and analytical skills. Additionally, many businesses value the leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that military veterans bring to the table.
National Security Agency Jobs for Former Military
Business, Accounting and Budget - $79,842
Communication and Public Affairs - $66,383
Cryptographic Operations - $76973
Cybersecurity Specialist - $91,498
Education and Training - $56,774
Engineering and Physical Science - $75,794 to $99,925
General Administrative Support - $39,290 to $49,620
Human Resources - $77,545
Infrastructure and Logistics - $80283
Inspection, Investigation, Enforcement and Compliance - $58,594
Intelligence Collection - $64160
Intelligence Analysis - $77,752
Language Analysis - $72017
Law and Legal Services - $80,000 to $162,500
Medical and Occupational Health - $206,048 to $278,378
Physical Security - $66,720
Student Programs - $59,464
Criminal Justice Jobs for Former Military
Police Officer - $52,638
Detective - $55,649 to $83,290
Border Patrol Agent - $46,060
Federal Agent (FBI, DEA, ATF, etc.) - $118,349
Correction Officer - $39000
Probation and Parole Officer - $55,054 to $68,895
Criminal Investigator - $65,347
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Security Specialist - $49,49
Forensic Scientist - $70,364
Military Lawyer - $83,271
These positions can be found in local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, as well as in private security firms. With their experience in security, investigation, and leadership, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the criminal justice field. Additionally, many criminal justice organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that military veterans bring to the table.
Psychology Jobs for Former Military
Clinical Psychologist - $103,096
Mental Health Counselor - $55,650
School Psychologist - $83456
Substance Abuse Counselor - $54,444
Neuropsychologist - $80,624 to $123,824
Forensic Psychologist - $64,940
Health Psychologist - $70,677 to $94,633
Industrial-Organizational Psychologist - $108,085 and $150,080
Sports Psychologist - $75928
Research Psychologist - $66,283 to $88,750
These positions can be found in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, government agencies, and private practice. With a psychology degree, former military personnel can use their understanding of human behavior and mental health to help others. Additionally, many organizations value the leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills that military veterans bring to the table.
International Relations Jobs for Former Military
Diplomat - $81,479
Foreign Service Officer - $83,718 and $114,387
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
International Development Specialist - $111,467 to $140,072
Political Risk Consultant - $81,182
Non-Profit Program Manager - $98,445
Humanitarian Aid Worker - $62,248
Peace Corps Volunteer - $58,862
International Trade Specialist - $76,834 to $118,224
Cultural Attaché - $72,489
These positions can be found in government agencies, such as the Department of State, non-government organizations, international corporations, and other organizations that engage in international affairs. With a degree in International Relations, former military personnel can bring their experience with cross-cultural communication, leadership, and problem-solving to a variety of roles that involve working with people from different countries and backgrounds.
Military History Jobs for Former Military
Military Historian - $56,17
Archivist - $54,940
Museum Curator - $54,275 to $76,336
College or University Professor - $67868 to $157000
Historical Consultant - $57,408
Military analyst - $87,957
Technical Writer - $67,868
Military Librarian - $88,380
Journalist - $52,500
Tour Guide - $50,071
Additionally, those with a military history degree can also find work in government agencies, historical societies, and non-profit organizations. With their in-depth knowledge of military strategy, tactics, and culture, individuals with a military history degree are well-suited to careers in research, education, and analysis. Additionally, their strong critical thinking and research skills can be valuable assets in many different fields.
Engineering Jobs for Former Military
Systems Engineer - $148,085
Project Manager - $94247
Mechanical Engineer - $75,352
Software Engineer - $89,536 to $181,249
Electrical Engineer - $88,171
Civil Engineer - $89,102
Aerospace Engineer - $110,000
Information Technology Engineer - $66,831 and $84,338
Network Engineer - $106,738
Cybersecurity Engineer - $92,495
Nuclear Engineer - $248,553
Chemical Engineering - $79,614
These positions can be found in a variety of industries, including aerospace and defense, construction, energy, technology, and telecommunications. With their experience in problem-solving, leadership, and attention to detail, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the field of engineering. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and strong work ethic that military veterans bring to the table.
Social Work Jobs for Former Military
Veteran Case Manager - $61,856
Military Family Therapist - $66,198
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Therapist - $76,704 to $103,210
Substance Abuse Counselor for Veterans - $87,399
Veterans Benefits Coordinator - $60,822
Homeless Veterans Outreach Specialist - $53,865
Military Sexual Trauma Therapist - $67820
Reintegration Specialist for Veterans - $88000
Mental Health Case Manager for Veterans - $87,633
Clinical Social Worker - $76,911
These positions can be found in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and mental health clinics. With their experience in leadership, problem-solving, and resilience, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the field of social work, particularly as it relates to helping veterans and military families. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, empathy, and understanding of military culture that military veterans bring to the table.
Emergency Management Jobs for Former Military
Disaster Response Coordinator - $49,305 to $63,246
Emergency Management Director - $161,105
Emergency Preparedness Manager - $128,966
Emergency Operations Center Manager - $68,055
Hazard Mitigation Specialist - $55,881
Emergency Medical Services Coordinator - $49,102 to $60,943
Fire Services Coordinator - $59,793 to $67,473
Hazardous Materials Response Coordinator - $53033
Search and Rescue Coordinator - $73,463
Crisis Management Specialist - $54,678
Homeland Security Agent - $54,066
These positions can be found in government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector companies. With their experience in leadership, decision-making, and risk management, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the field of emergency management. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and ability to work under pressure that military veterans bring to the table.
Business Jobs for Former Military
Business Development Manager - $113,965 to $151,054
Project Manager - $94247
Operations Manager - $95,921 to $124,248.
Supply Chain Manager - $72,000 to $118,000
Human Resources Manager - $82,192
Sales Manager - $108,449 to $149,637
Financial Manager - $113,470 to $143,242
Marketing Manager - $100,538 to $131,538
Logistics Manager - $100,681 to $131,571
Business Analyst - $74,028
Entrepreneur - $70,849
These positions can be found in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, finance, healthcare, technology, and consulting. With their experience in leadership, problem-solving, and attention to detail, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the business world. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and strong work ethic that military veterans bring to the table.
Medical Jobs for Former Military
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - $35,470
Paramedic - $42,190 to $52,364
Registered Nurse (RN) - $77,600 to $124,000
Physical Therapist - $95,620
Occupational Therapist - $85,570
Radiology Technician - $80,226
Medical Laboratory Technician - $53,315
Physician Assistant - $121,530
Medical Equipment Repairer - $48832
Biomedical Equipment Technician - $62,690 to $80,390
Surgeon - $356,264 to $499,994
Registered Nurse - $87,340
Medical Social Worker - $68,031
These positions can be found in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centers, and other healthcare facilities. With their experience in working under pressure and providing care in stressful situations, former military personnel are well-equipped to succeed in the medical field. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and strong work ethic that military veterans bring to the table.
Civilian Jobs for Former Military
Security Consultant - $121,930
Private Military Contractor - $65,203
Law Enforcement Officer - $80,032
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Protective Services Specialist - $46843
Emergency Response Manager - $118,149 to $146,236
Counterterrorism Specialist - $55580
Firefighter - $63095
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) - $35,470
Military Trainer - $71,769
These positions can be found in a variety of industries, including government, security, intelligence, law enforcement, and emergency services. With their experience in high-stakes and high-pressure environments, former special forces personnel are well-equipped to succeed in roles that require quick thinking, attention to detail, and strong leadership skills. Additionally, many organizations value the discipline, teamwork, and strong work ethic that military veterans bring to the table.
Jobs for Former FBI agents
Military Officer - $65,099
Police Officer - $52,638
Private Investigator - $40,202 to $60,102
Security Consultant - $104,193 to $146,340
Corporate Security Specialist - $63,318
Fraud Investigator - $58,535
Law Enforcement Trainer - 56,641 to $73,098
Legal Investigator - $54,319 to $79,928
Cybersecurity Specialist - $91,498
Intelligence Analyst - $70,187
Risk Management Consultant - $63,508 to $81,449
Corporate Compliance Officer - $95,926
These positions can be found in private investigation firms, security companies, law firms, financial institutions, and government agencies. With their experience in law enforcement, intelligence gathering, and security, former FBI agents are well-positioned to succeed in a variety of roles that require strong critical thinking and analytical skills. Additionally, many organizations value the leadership, problem-solving, and communication skills that former FBI agents bring to the table.