Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can be a complex and challenging process. However, the skills and experiences gained in the military are highly transferable and in demand in the civilian workforce. This article aims to bridge the gap between military and civilian employment by matching military jobs to civilian counterparts. By understanding how your military experience aligns with civilian job roles, you can more effectively market yourself to potential employers and find a career path that leverages your strengths and expertise. Whether you served in logistics, engineering, communications, or any other field, this guide will help you identify civilian opportunities that match your military background, making your transition smoother and more successful. Some of these careers might require a college degree, a certification, or some vocational training. Here are some additional resources to help you find military-friendly options:
Healthcare Industry Roles
Here are some healthcare roles and careers that might be particularly suitable for retired veterans and military service members:
Registered Nurse (RN)
Veterans with medical training can transition into nursing, a field with high demand and opportunities for specialization
Education Requirements: Requires an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), and passing the NCLEX-RN exam.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 66H – Medical-Surgical Nurse
Physician Assistant (PA)
With their extensive medical experience, veterans can pursue a career as a PA, working under doctors to provide care and treatment.
Education Requirements: Requires a master’s degree from an accredited PA program and passing the Physician Assistant National Certifying Exam (PANCE).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 65D – Physician Assistant
Medical Administrative Assistant
Veterans can use their organizational and leadership skills in administrative roles within healthcare settings.
Education Requirements: Requires a high school diploma or GED; some positions may prefer a certificate or associate degree in medical office administration.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68G – Patient Administration Specialist
Physical Therapist (PT)
Veterans with a background in physical fitness and rehabilitation can excel in helping patients recover from injuries.
Education Requirements: Requires a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) degree and passing the National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 65B – Physical Therapist
Occupational Therapist (OT)
This role involves helping patients develop, recover, and improve the skills needed for daily living and working.
Education Requirements: Requires a master’s degree in occupational therapy and passing the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) exam.
Military Job Equivalent: / Army MOS: 65A – Occupational Therapist
Paramedic/EMT
Veterans with emergency medical training can continue their service in civilian emergency medical services.
Education Requirements: Requires completion of a state-approved education program and passing the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) exam.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68W – Combat Medic Specialist
Healthcare Information Technician
Veterans with technical skills can manage and secure patient data and healthcare information systems.
Education Requirements: Requires a certificate or associate degree in health information technology; some positions may require certification such as Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68A – Biomedical Equipment Specialist (with a focus on health information technology)
Pharmacy Technician
Veterans can assist pharmacists in preparing and dispensing medications.
Education Requirements: Requires a high school diploma or GED; some states and employers may require completion of a pharmacy technician training program and certification.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68Q – Pharmacy Specialist
Medical Laboratory Technician
Veterans with a background in lab work can perform diagnostic tests and analyze results.
Education Requirements: Requires an associate degree in clinical laboratory science and passing a certification exam such as the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) certification.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68K – Medical Laboratory Specialist
Radiologic Technologist
Veterans can operate imaging equipment to assist in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Education Requirements: Requires an associate degree in radiologic technology and passing the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification exam.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68P – Radiology Specialist
Mental Health Counselor
Veterans can provide support and counseling, particularly to other veterans, drawing on their own experiences.
Education Requirements: Requires a master’s degree in counseling or a related field and state licensure, which typically involves passing a licensure exam.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68X – Behavioral Health Specialist
Dental Hygienist
This role involves providing preventive dental care and educating patients on oral health.
Education Requirements: Requires an associate degree in dental hygiene and passing the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination (NBDHE).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68E – Dental Specialist
Respiratory Therapist
Veterans can specialize in helping patients with breathing difficulties and chronic respiratory diseases.
Education Requirements: Requires an associate degree in respiratory therapy and passing the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC) certification exams.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68V – Respiratory Specialist
Nutritionist/Dietitian
Veterans can advise patients on nutrition and develop meal plans to promote health and manage disease.
Education Requirements: Requires a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field and completion of a supervised practice program; must pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 65C – Dietitian
Medical Equipment Repairer
Veterans with mechanical skills can maintain and repair medical equipment used in healthcare facilities.
Education Requirements: Requires an associate degree in biomedical technology or engineering; on-the-job training is often provided.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 68A – Biomedical Equipment Specialist
Veterinary Technician
For veterans who prefer working with animals, this role involves assisting veterinarians in the care of animals.
Education Requirements: Requires an associate degree in veterinary technology and passing the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: Animal Care Specialist, 68T
These healthcare roles leverage the skills, discipline, and experience that veterans and military service members possess, offering fulfilling and impactful careers in the healthcare sector.
Technology Roles
Here are some technology roles and careers that might be a good fit for retired veterans and military service members, along with descriptions, reasons why they are suitable, and education requirements:
Cybersecurity Analyst
Protects an organization’s systems and networks from cyber threats by monitoring, detecting, and responding to security incidents.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans often have experience in maintaining security and handling sensitive information, making them well-suited for cybersecurity roles.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field. Certifications like Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) can be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25D – Cyber Network Defender
Network Administrator
Manages and maintains an organization’s computer networks, ensuring reliable network performance and security.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with communication systems and protocols in the military translates well to managing network infrastructure.
- Education Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Certifications such as Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) are often required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Software Developer
Designs, codes, tests, and maintains software applications, working on both front-end and back-end development.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: The problem-solving skills and attention to detail honed in the military are crucial for writing and debugging code.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or a related field. Practical experience and knowledge of programming languages (e.g., Java, Python, C++) are essential.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 17C – Cyber Operations Specialist
IT Support Specialist
Provides technical support and troubleshooting for computer systems, hardware, and s software.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ ability to follow protocols and provide support under pressure makes them ideal for IT support roles.
- Education Requirements: Associate degree in information technology or a related field. Certifications like CompTIA A+ can improve job prospects.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Data Analyst
Analyzes data to provide insights and support decision-making within an organization.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans are trained to make decisions based on data and intelligence, skills directly applicable to data analysis.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in data science, statistics, computer science, or a related field. Proficiency in data analysis tools and languages (e.g., SQL, Python, R) is important.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 35F – Intelligence Analyst
Systems Administrator (SysAdmin)
Manages and supports the IT infrastructure of an organization, including servers, networks, and applications.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with complex systems and attention to detail helps ensure the reliability and security of IT systems.
- Education Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Certifications like Microsoft Certified: Windows Server or CompTIA Server+ are beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Cloud Solutions Architect
Designs and implements cloud computing solutions for organizations, ensuring scalability, security, and efficiency.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ strategic thinking and experience with mission-critical systems align well with designing robust cloud solutions (Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist).
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Certifications such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect or Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert are highly valued.
Military Job Equivalent: n/a
IT Project Manager
Plans, executes, and oversees IT projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and within budget.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ leadership skills and experience in managing operations and logistics make them excellent project managers.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, business administration, or a related field. Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is often preferred.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Database Administrator
Manages and maintains databases to ensure data availability, security, and performance.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ precision and ability to manage critical data are essential for maintaining and securing databases.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Certifications like Oracle Certified Professional or Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate are beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Web Developer
Builds and maintains websites, focusing on both the design (front-end) and functionality (back-end).
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ creativity and problem-solving skills are valuable in designing user-friendly and functional websites.
- Education Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in web development, computer science, or a related field. Knowledge of web programming languages (e.g., HTML, CSS, JavaScript) and frameworks is essential.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Information Systems Security Manager (ISSM)
Oversees an organization’s information security program, developing policies and procedures to protect data.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in managing security protocols and responding to threats makes them ideal for overseeing information security.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, or a related field. Certifications like Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) are often required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25D – Cyber Network Defender
DevOps Engineer
Bridges the gap between software development and IT operations, automating and streamlining processes to improve efficiency.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in operational efficiency and process optimization is highly valuable in DevOps roles.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Experience with DevOps tools (e.g., Jenkins, Docker, Kubernetes) and relevant certifications can be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 17C – Cyber Operations Specialist
Computer Systems Analyst
Analyzes and designs information systems solutions to help organizations operate more efficiently and effectively.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ ability to assess and improve systems and processes aligns well with the responsibilities of a systems analyst.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Experience in system analysis and design is important.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 35F – Intelligence Analyst
Technical Support Engineer
Provides advanced technical support and troubleshooting for complex IT issues and systems.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure make them excellent technical support engineers.
- Education Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. Certifications like CompTIA Network+ or Microsoft Certified: Modern Desktop Administrator Associate can be advantageous.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
IT Consultant
Advises organizations on how to best use IT to meet their business objectives, often working on a project basis.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ strategic thinking and experience in providing expert advice are highly relevant to IT consulting roles.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. Relevant experience and certifications can enhance credibility and job prospects.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Specialist
Develops and implements AI solutions, including machine learning models and algorithms, to solve complex problems.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ analytical skills and experience with advanced technology make them well-suited for AI roles.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, AI, machine learning, or a related field. Advanced roles may require a master’s or Ph.D. in a related field.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 35F – Intelligence Analyst
Blockchain Developer
Designs and develops blockchain-based applications and solutions, ensuring security and efficiency.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with secure communication and data integrity aligns well with blockchain development.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. Experience with blockchain technologies and relevant programming languages (e.g., Solidity, JavaScript) is important.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 17C – Cyber Operations Specialist
These technology roles provide excellent opportunities for veterans and military service members to leverage their technical skills, discipline, and problem-solving abilities while pursuing rewarding careers in the tech industry.
Law Enforcement and Security Roles
Here are some law enforcement and security roles and careers that might be a good fit for retired veterans and military service members, along with brief descriptions and reasons why they are suitable:
Police Officer
Enforces laws, responds to emergencies, and protects citizens by maintaining public order and safety.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in following protocols, handling stressful situations, and ensuring security aligns well with police work.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; some agencies may require a degree in criminal justice. Police academy training is mandatory.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Federal Agent (FBI, DEA, ATF, etc.)
Conducts investigations, gathers intelligence, and enforces federal laws.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ skills in intelligence, tactical operations, and law enforcement are highly valued in federal agencies.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, law, or a related field. Additional agency-specific training and requirements apply.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 35L – Counterintelligence Agent)
Security Consultant
Advises organizations on security measures, risk management, and loss prevention strategies.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ expertise in security protocols and threat assessment makes them excellent consultants.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, security management, or a related field. Relevant certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) can be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Correctional Officer
Oversees inmates in correctional facilities, ensuring security and compliance with rules.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ discipline, ability to handle stressful situations, and adherence to protocols are essential in correctional facilities.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; some positions may require a degree in criminal justice. Training academy attendance is required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31E – Internment/Resettlement Specialist
Private Investigator
Conducts investigations to gather information on legal, financial, and personal matters.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ skills in surveillance, investigation, and intelligence gathering are well-suited for this role.
- Education Requirements: Varies by state, but generally requires a high school diploma or GED; some positions may require a degree in criminal justice or related field. Licensing and certification requirements vary by state.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 35L – Counterintelligence Agent
Border Patrol Agent
Monitors and secures national borders to prevent illegal entry and smuggling activities.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in security, surveillance, and tactical operations aligns with border patrol duties.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; additional training at a Border Patrol Academy is required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Corporate Security Manager
Oversees security operations within a corporation, including physical security, loss prevention, and emergency response.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ leadership skills and experience in managing security operations are valuable in corporate settings.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in security management, criminal justice, or a related field. Relevant experience and certifications such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP) can be advantageous.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Homeland Security Officer
Protects the nation from threats, including terrorism, natural disasters, and other emergencies.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ training in national defense, emergency response, and risk management makes them ideal for homeland security roles.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, homeland security, or a related field. Additional training and certifications may be required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Emergency Management Director
Plans and coordinates emergency response strategies to natural and man-made disasters.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in crisis management, coordination, and leadership is crucial in emergency management.
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in emergency management, public administration, or a related field. Advanced certifications such as Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) are beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 38B – Civil Affairs Specialist
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Monitors and analyzes security incidents to protect an organization’s IT infrastructure.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ skills in monitoring, analysis, and incident response are well-suited for this role.
- Education Requirements: Associate or bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, information technology, or a related field. Relevant certifications such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or CompTIA Security+ are advantageous.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25D – Cyber Network Defender
Transportation Security Officer (TSA)
Ensures the security of transportation systems, including airports, by screening passengers and baggage.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in security and attention to detail are essential for ensuring transportation safety.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; training provided by the Transportation Security Administration.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Loss Prevention Specialist
Works in retail settings to prevent theft, fraud, and other loss-related activities.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ vigilance, observational skills, and integrity are valuable in loss prevention roles.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; some positions may prefer a degree in criminal justice. Certifications such as Certified Forensic Interviewer (CFI) can be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Customs and Border Protection Officer
Inspects and secures goods and individuals entering the country, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in law enforcement, security, and customs procedures aligns well with this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; additional training at a Customs and Border Protection Academy is required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Security Guard
Protects property, assets, and individuals by monitoring and patrolling assigned areas.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience in maintaining security and handling emergencies makes them effective security guards.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; state-specific licensing and training may be required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 31B – Military Police
Security Systems Technician
Installs, maintains, and repairs security systems, including alarms, surveillance cameras, and access control systems.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ technical skills and experience with security equipment are directly applicable to this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or an associate degree in electronics or a related field may be beneficial. Relevant certifications can enhance job prospects.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 25B – Information Technology Specialist
These law enforcement and security roles provide opportunities for veterans and military service members to continue serving their communities while leveraging their skills and experience gained in the military.
Skilled Trades and Manufacturing Roles
Here are some skilled trades and manufacturing roles and careers that might be a good fit for retired veterans and military service members, along with brief descriptions and reasons why they are suitable:
Electrician
Installs, maintains, and repairs electrical systems in residential, commercial, and industrial settings.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ technical skills, attention to detail, and experience with electrical systems in the military make them well-suited for this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship program; state licensing requirements vary.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12R – Interior Electrician
Plumber
Installs, repairs, and maintains plumbing systems, including water supply, waste disposal, and heating systems.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ problem-solving skills and experience with complex systems translate well to plumbing.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship program; state licensing requirements vary.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12K – Plumber
HVAC Technician
Installs, maintains, and repairs heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ technical aptitude and experience with mechanical systems are valuable in HVAC roles.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree; certification (e.g., EPA Section 608 certification).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91C – Utilities Equipment Repairer
Welder
Joins metal parts together using various welding techniques and equipment.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ precision, manual dexterity, and familiarity with welding in the military make them ideal for welding careers.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or apprenticeship; certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Welder).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91E – Allied Trade Specialist
Machinist
Operates machine tools to produce precision metal parts and instruments.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ attention to detail and experience with machinery are highly relevant to machinist roles.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or apprenticeship; certifications may be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91E – Allied Trade Specialist
Automotive Technician
Diagnoses, repairs, and maintains vehicles, including engines, brakes, and electrical systems.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ mechanical skills and experience with vehicle maintenance make them well-suited for automotive work.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree; ASE certification is often required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91B – Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic
CNC Operator
Operates computer numerical control (CNC) machines to create precision parts and components.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ technical skills and experience with precision machinery are valuable in CNC operations.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree; on-the-job training.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91E – Allied Trade Specialist
Industrial Maintenance Technician
Maintains and repairs industrial equipment and machinery to ensure smooth operation.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ troubleshooting skills and experience with industrial equipment align well with this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree; certifications may be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91C – Utilities Equipment Repairer
Construction Manager
Oversees construction projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and according to specifications.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ leadership skills and experience in managing operations make them effective construction managers.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; bachelor’s degree in construction management or a related field may be required for larger projects; certifications like PMP or CCM can be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12H – Construction Engineering Supervisor
Carpenter
Builds and repairs structures made of wood and other materials, including frameworks, partitions, and cabinets.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ manual skills, attention to detail, and ability to work with tools are directly applicable to carpentry.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship or vocational training; certifications may be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12W – Carpentry and Masonry Specialist
Forklift Operator
Operates forklifts and other material-handling equipment to move, load, and unload goods in warehouses and manufacturing facilities.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with heavy equipment operation and safety protocols makes them well-suited for this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; certification to operate forklifts (usually provided by the employer).
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 88M – Motor Transport Operator
Pipefitter/Steamfitter
Assembles, installs, and maintains piping systems for heating, cooling, and other purposes.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ mechanical skills and experience with complex systems are valuable in pipefitting.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship program; state licensing requirements vary.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12K – Plumber
Wind Turbine Technician
Installs, maintains, and repairs wind turbines to ensure efficient operation.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ technical skills and experience with mechanical and electrical systems are ideal for working with wind turbines.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree in wind energy technology; certifications may be required.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 15U – CH-47 Helicopter Repairer
Solar Photovoltaic Installer
Installs and maintains solar panel systems on residential, commercial, and industrial properties.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with electrical systems and working outdoors makes them suitable for solar installation.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree in solar energy technology; certifications may be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12R – Interior Electrician
Sheet Metal Worker
Fabricates, installs, and maintains sheet metal products for HVAC systems, roofing, and other applications.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ precision, manual skills, and experience with metalwork align well with this trade.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship program; certifications may be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12W – Carpentry and Masonry Specialist
Heavy Equipment Operator
Operates heavy machinery such as bulldozers, excavators, and cranes used in construction and other industries.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with operating heavy equipment in the military makes them well-suited for this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or certification program; on-the-job training.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12N – Horizontal Construction Engineer
Quality Control Inspector
Inspects products and materials to ensure they meet quality standards and specifications.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ attention to detail and experience with quality assurance protocols make them effective quality control inspectors.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; vocational training or associate degree may be beneficial; certifications such as Certified Quality Inspector (CQI) can enhance job prospects.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91B – Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic
Maintenance Electrician
Performs maintenance and repair work on electrical systems in industrial and commercial settings.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ electrical skills and experience with maintenance tasks are valuable in this role.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship or vocational training; state licensing requirements vary.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12R – Interior Electrician
Boilermaker
Assembles, installs, and repairs boilers, tanks, and other large containers that hold liquids and gases.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ experience with mechanical systems and welding is directly applicable to boilermaking.
- Education Requirements: High school diploma or GED; apprenticeship program; certifications may be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 91E – Allied Trade Specialist
Industrial Engineer
Designs and improves production processes to increase efficiency and reduce waste in manufacturing environments.
- Why It’s Good for Veterans: Veterans’ problem-solving skills and experience in process optimization align well with industrial engineering
- Education Requirements: Bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering or a related field; certifications such as Six Sigma can be beneficial.
Military Job Equivalent: Army MOS: 12A – Engineer Officer
These skilled trades and manufacturing roles provide excellent opportunities for veterans and military service members to leverage their technical skills, discipline, and hands-on experience while pursuing rewarding careers in various industries.
Education and Training Roles
One promising avenue for many retired service members is the field of education and training. Leveraging their extensive experience, leadership skills, and specialized knowledge, veterans can find rewarding careers in various educational roles. By highlighting these career paths, we aim to help veterans navigate their transition and find fulfilling post-military employment in education and training.
Training and Development Specialist
Training and Development Specialists design and implement training programs to improve employee skills and knowledge within an organization.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans often have experience in training and mentoring peers and subordinates, making them well-suited for roles that involve teaching and developing others.
- Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in human resources, education, or a related. field is typically required. Professional certifications, such as the Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP), can be beneficial.
Vocational Instructor
Vocational Instructors teach students specific trades or technical skills, such as automotive repair, welding, or computer programming.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Many veterans possess hands-on technical skills and experience in specialized fields, which can be directly applied to vocational training.
- Education Requirements: A combination of experience in the trade and formal education, such as a postsecondary certificate or associate degree, is often required. State certification may also be necessary.
College or University Professor
Professors teach courses at the college or university level, conduct research, and publish scholarly papers.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans with advanced degrees and a passion for academia can leverage their discipline and expertise to contribute to higher education.
- Education Requirements: A doctoral degree (Ph.D.) is typically required for tenure-track positions, though some community colleges may hire instructors with a master’s degree.
Corporate Trainer
Corporate Trainers educate employees on various aspects of their jobs, including new skills, company policies, and industry practices.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans’ leadership experience and ability to communicate effectively make them excellent candidates for corporate training roles.
- Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in human resources, business, education, or a related field is usually required. Certifications like the Certified Professional in Training Management (CPTM) can enhance job prospects.
K-12 Teacher
K-12 Teachers educate students at the elementary, middle, or high school levels, developing lesson plans and assessing student performance.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans can bring structure, discipline, and a wealth of real-world experience to the classroom, enriching the educational environment for students.
- Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in education or a related field is required, along with state-specific teaching certification. Programs like Troops to Teachers can assist veterans in transitioning to this career.
Adult Education Instructor
Adult Education Instructors teach courses aimed at adults seeking to complete their high school education, learn English, or acquire new skills for career advancement.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans’ diverse experiences and empathetic communication skills can be highly effective in adult education settings.
- Education Requirements: Typically, a bachelor’s degree in education or a related field is required, along with experience in the subject matter being taught.
Education Administrator
Education Administrators manage the operation of educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans’ leadership and organizational skills are crucial for managing complex educational environments and driving institutional success.
- Education Requirements: A master’s degree in education administration or a related field is typically required. Experience in teaching or educational leadership is also beneficial.
Instructional Coordinator
Instructional Coordinators develop educational material, coordinate its implementation with teachers and principals, and assess its effectiveness.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans with a background in training and curriculum development can excel in creating structured educational programs.
- Education Requirements: A master’s degree in education or curriculum and instruction is usually required, along with teaching or instructional experience.
Career Counselor
Career Counselors assist individuals in understanding their career options and developing career plans, often working in schools, colleges, or career centers.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans can use their experience to guide others in making informed career decisions, offering valuable insights from their own transitions.
- Education Requirements: A master’s degree in counseling or career development is typically required. State licensure or certification may also be necessary.
Military Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Counselor
TAP Counselors work with service members who are transitioning out of the military, providing career counseling, job search assistance, and resume writing help.
- Why It’s a Good Fit for Veterans: Veterans have firsthand experience with the challenges of transitioning to civilian life and can offer practical advice and support to their peers.
- Education Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in counseling, human resources, or a related field is often required. Experience in the military and career counseling is highly beneficial.
Ready to Transition into a New Career?
Transitioning from military service to a civilian career can be a rewarding journey filled with new opportunities and challenges. Retired military personnel bring a unique set of skills, experiences, and values that are highly sought after in various sectors. From education and training roles to leadership positions in corporate settings, there are numerous career paths where veterans can thrive and continue to make significant contributions. By leveraging their discipline, leadership, and specialized knowledge, retired service members can find fulfilling careers that not only align with their skills but also offer personal and professional growth.
Disclaimer: The roles and careers listed above are intended as recommendations based on the skills and experiences commonly acquired during military service. Individual qualifications, interests, and career goals vary, and it’s important to conduct personal research and seek professional advice before making any education and career decisions. The information provided does not guarantee employment or career success and should be used as a general guide to explore potential opportunities.