The best jobs for veterans are the ones that relate to the skills learned while in service.
Civilian employers are in search of skilled workers who have the discipline and aptitude to perform their job in an above satisfactory manner.
Working in the military provides skills related to your MOS in addition to learning work ethic.
This gives you an advantage over other civilian applicants.
OMK found the 20 best jobs for veterans including 10 that do not require college degrees and 10 that do.
Continue reading for job descriptions, requirements, average pay amounts and military jobs that relate.
10 Jobs For Veterans That Do NOT Require Degrees
#1 – Heavy Truck/Trailer Driver
A Heavy Truck/Trailer Driver is someone who operates and maintains a heavy truck/trailer.
They often haul goods, supplies or equipment from one destination to another.
Their job tasks can include:
- Driving (obviously)
- Performing inspections and routine maintenance
- Securing their load
- Assisting with loading/unloading procedures
- Radio communications
- Refueling duties
Requirements can include passing medical and fitness evaluations, passing urine analysis screenings, having a clean driving record and having a CDL, depending on the equipment you are driving.
The median pay for this position is 2018 was $43,680 a year and is expected to have an average growth rate of 5% between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Army Motor Transport Operator (MOS 88M)
- Marine Motor Vehicle Operator (MOS 3531)
- Air Force Ground Transportation (MOS 2T1X1)
#2 – Customer Service Representative
Customer Service Representatives are the face of a company.
The specific role a representative plays depends on the company they work for.
Representatives can work in retail locations, banks, technical support, insurance, call centers and many other areas.
They will assist by providing products, service and assistance within the scope of the company’s specialty.
Requirements may include a high school diploma or GED, ability to work in stressful situations, ability to assist customers and remain calm in adverse scenarios, attention to detail, basic computer skills and cash handling.
The average salary for a Customer Service Representative was $33,750 in 2018.
This position is expected to have a small decline in positions between 2018 and 2028, but this expectation varies widely between the area of customer service chosen. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Marine Warehouse Clerk (MOS 3051)
- Army Unit Supply Specialist (MOS 92Y)
- Air Force Services (MOS 3M0X1)
#3 – Correctional Officer
Correctional Officers work in city, county, state or private, jails and prisons.
They are responsible for the safety and supervision of inmate daily activities.
They perform functions similar to intake and release procedures, inspections, rule enforcement, activity supervision and more.
The requirements include a high school diploma or GED, passing a background check, meeting physical/medical requirements, passing pre-employment urinalysis screenings and having no-prior criminal convictions.
The average pay for this position in 2018 was $44,400.
The outlook for this position varies by state and agency and is dependent on prison population levels. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Army Internment/Resettlement Specialist (MOS 31E)
- Air Force Security (MOS 3P0X1)
- Marine Correctional Specialist (MOS 5831)
#4 – Head Cook/Chef
A Cook/Chef is someone who works in a kitchen, dining facility or other area.
Their main responsibilities include ordering, storing, cleaning, preparing and cooking food.
They can work in a variety of locations from restaurants and hotels to private homes.
The requirements to be a Cook/Chef vary depending on the location you work.
Most positions will require ability to work at a fast rate, a Food Handler’s Permit and the aptitude to learn how to prepare menu items. Advanced positions may require experience or some culinary classes.
Head Cooks/Chefs averaged $48,460 in annual income in 2018.
This position is expected to have an 11% rise between 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the average growth rate. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Navy Culinary Specialist (CS)
- Marine Food Service Specialist (MOS 3381)
- Army Culinary Specialist (MOS 92G)
#5 – Armed Guard-Driver/Courier
An Armed Guard-Driver/Courier operates an armored vehicle and oversees the delivery or pick-up of goods such as cash or valuables.
Their responsibilities include assisting customers with transactions, protecting the vehicle and assets inside, reconciling receipts and servicing locations such as ATMs, banks and stores.
Requirements include a High School Diploma or GED, physical requirements including ability to lift heavy amounts, a clean driving record, ability to pass a urinalysis screening and background check, and ability to control/possess a firearm.
The average wage for this position was just over $28,000 in 2018. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Marine Corps LAV Crewman (MOS 0313)
- Air Force Fleet Management and Analysis (MOS 2T3X7)
- Marine Corps AAV Crewman (MOS 1833)
#6 – Aircraft Technician
Aircraft Technicians are responsible for keeping aircraft in working order.
They perform inspections, maintenance and repairs to most aircraft components.
Qualifications for this position include high school diploma or GED, aircraft maintenance experience, ability to use precise measuring tools and safety oriented.
The average pay for this position was $63,060 in 2018 with a projected increase in job opportunities between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force Aircraft Structural Maintenance (MOS 2A7X3)
- Army Avionic Mechanic (MOS 15N)
- Air Force Low Observable Aircraft Maintenance (MOS 2A7X5)
#7 – Diesel Engine Mechanic
Diesel Engine Mechanics perform maintenance on vehicles and equipment that have diesel engines.
They can work on everything from trucks to generators.
Their job duties include inspecting, diagnosing, repairing and maintaining diesel engines.
Qualifications include aptitude for learning diagnostic equipment, ability to perform manual labor, high school diploma or GED and a knowledge of diesel engine/systems.
The average pay for a Diesel Engine Mechanic was $47,350 in 2018.
The job outlook is expected to increase 5% between 2018 and 2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Marine Engineer Equipment Mechanic (MOS 1341)
- Navy Engineman (EN)
- Coast Guard Machinery Technician (MK)
#8 – Police Officer
A Police Officer can work for city, state or federal agencies providing civilian or private protection and service.
Job tasks may include traffic management, issuing citations, answering emergency calls, performing basic first-aid and more.
Qualifications generally include a High School Diploma or GED, ability to pass urinalysis screenings and background checks, meeting medical/physical requirements, polygraph screenings and meeting moral standards.
In 2018 the average pay was $63,380 for police officers.
The job outlook of this position is expected to increase 5% between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
#9 – Electrician
Electricians are responsible for working with the electrical systems in homes, businesses and outdoor areas.
Their duties include installation, maintenance, diagnostics and repair on areas such as lighting, wiring, control systems, communication systems and power systems.
Electrician are not required to have degrees, but most states require certifications.
Other qualifications include high school diploma or GED, ability to read blue prints and use electrical testing equipment, computer literacy and a clean driving record.
The average annual salary in 2018 was $55,190. The average growth rate for this job is to increase 10% between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Marine Corps Engineer Equipment Electrical Systems Technician (MOS 1142)
- Army Interior Electrician (MOS 12R)
- Navy Electrician’s Mate (EM)
#10 – Registered Nurse
A Registered Nurse assists a physician in a medical setting.
They are responsible for checking vital signs, maintaining patient records, assisting in treatment, dispensing medications and overall patient assistance.
Working as a Registered Nurse will require a state license.
It will also require being able to pass background checks, First Aid Certification, Basic Life Support (BLS) and willingness to work flexible hours.
In 2018 the average pay for Registered Nurses was $71,730 a year.
The job outlook for this position is very promising with an expected 12% rise between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force Surgical Services (MOS 4N1X1)
- Army Combat Medic Specialist (MOS 68W)
- Coast Guard Health Services Technician (HS)
10 Jobs For Veterans That Require A Degree
#1 – Social Services
Social Services assists customers with receiving benefits and resources.
They can provide support to adults, children or specific groups.
Types of assistance they help with may include insurance, child care, TANF, foster care, or veterans benefits.
Most Social Services require at least a Bachelor’s Degree (sometimes a Master’s Degree) in social services, human services or a related field.
Other qualifications include effective communication, critical thinking, de-escalation skills and computer skills.
Social Workers made an average of $49,470 a year in 2018.
This job is projected to have an 11% increase between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force Personnel (MOS 3F0X1)
- Army Social Worker (MOS 73A)
- Marine Equal Opportunity Advisor (MOS 0147)
#2 – Park Ranger
Park Rangers usually work for the state or federal government.
They are sometimes called Foresters and are responsible for patrolling parks, providing education to people, issuing citations, and enforcing rules/laws.
This position usually requires a minimum of 2 years of college.
Some positions allow military or law enforcement experience to substitute for education.
Certain states require a minimum age of 21.
A valid driver’s license, background check and urinalysis screening is required.
Foresters made an average of $61,410 in 2018. Forester employment is expected to grow 3% between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Army Military Police (MOS 31B)
- Coast Guard Marine Science Technician (MST)
- Marine Military Police (MOS 5811)
#3 – Human Resources
Human Resources assist with employee administrative functions.
They can handle payroll, training, recruiting, benefits and handle employee complaints/disciplinary actions.
Most entry level positions require an Associates Degree at minimum or a Bachelor’s Degree for higher level positions.
Oral and written communication skills are important as well as computer skills, problem-solving and customer service.
Human Resources Specialist made an average of $60,880 in 2018.
The projected job outlook is expected to increase 5% between 2018 and 2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Army Human Resources Specialist (MOS 42A)
- Marine Administrative Specialist (MOS 0111)
- Air Force Administration (MOS 3F5X1)
#4 – Accountant
Accountants work with financial records.
Their responsibilities can include creating financial reports and budgets, making projections, creating tax returns and keeping records.
Generally a Bachelor’s Degree in accounting or business administration is required.
Other qualifications include experience with record keeping software, attention to detail, ability to prioritize and hand/finger dexterity.
Accountants made an average of $70,500 a year in 2018.
Accountants are expected to have an increase of 6% in job outlook between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Marine Corps Financial Management Resource Analyst (MOS 3451)
- Army Financial Management Technician (MOS 36B)
- Air Force Financial Management and Comptroller (MOS 6F0X1)
#5 – Software Developer
Software Developers develop computer applications and systems.
They enable users to be able to perform certain tasks on computers.
They design and create software for businesses or agencies.
Working as a Software Developer usually requires a Bachelor’s Degree in computer science or a related field.
Individuals must have verbal and written skills as well as problem solving skills.
Attention to detail and a vast understanding of technology are helpful.
Software Developers made an average of $105,590 a year in 2018.
This job field is expected to increase rapidly (21%) between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force Computer Systems Programming (MOS 3D0X4)
- Army Computer/Detection Systems Repairer (MOS 94F)
- Marine Tactical Air Operations/Air Defense Systems Technician (MOS 5979)
#6 – Information Security Analyst
Information Security Analyst work to protect a company’s private data information.
They protect from and combat cyber threats.
Analyst will analyze data, carry out security measures, make recommendations on best practices and establishes ways to protect information.
This position usually requires a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Security or a related field.
Some companies allow for experience of security certifications to take the place of a Bachelor’s Degree.
Other requirements include passing background checks and understanding different security systems.
Information Security Analysts made an average of $98,350 in 2018.
The job outlook on this position is much higher than average at an expected 32% increase between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force Cyber Surety (MOS 3D0X3)
- Navy Cyber Warfare Engineer (CWE)
- Army Cyber Operations Specialist (MOS 17C)
#7 – Logistics Manager
Logistics is the distribution and storage of goods.
Logistics can be used in any business type.
Their job duties include managing the transportation, inventory, storage and cost.
Logistics Managers are generally required to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management or a similar field.
They are required to be proficient on computers, have oral and written communication skills and optimize efficiencies.
On average Logisticians made $74,600 in 2018.
This position is expected to rise at an average rate of 5% between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force Airfield Management (MOS 1C7X1)
- Marine Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431)
- Navy Logistics Specialist (LS)
#8 – Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers are responsible for designing, testing, studying and developing electrical equipment.
They use different techniques to diagnose, repair or develop electrical systems on everything from small kitchen appliances to satellite communications.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering is required for most positions.
Background checks and security clearances are sometimes required.
Electrical Engineers made an average annual salary of $99,070 a year in 2018.
This position is projected have a just under average job outlook between 2018 and 2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Air Force RF Transmission Systems (MOS 3D1X3)
- Marine Corps Satellite Communications Operator (MOS 0627)
- Coast Guard Electronics Technician (ET)
#9 – IT Project Manager
IT Project Managers work with IT Technicians and other IT personnel to complete information technology projects.
Managers design, implement and lead projects including managing project budgets and timelines to meet customer expectations.
Most positions require IT Project Managers to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Information Technology.
At times experience plus an Associate’s Degree qualifies.
Some positions require a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, background/security checks, and communication skills.
IT Project Managers made an average salary of $142,530 a year in 2018.
The job outlook for this position is expected to increase 11% between 2018-2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Navy Information Systems Technician (IT)
- Army Information Technology Specialist (MOS 25B)
- Marine Defense Cyberspace Chief (MOS 0689)
#10 – Mental Health Counselor
Mental Health Counselors use different methods to assist patients who are experiences a mental health issue.
These professionals meet with patients on a regular basis, create treatment plans, and assess symptoms/causes.
Mental Health Counselors must have a Master’s Degree in Social Work or they must be a Licensed Mental Health Professional.
Other qualifications include background checks, oral and written communication skills and ability to keep disclosure of information.
Mental Health Counselors made an average of $44,630 a year in 2018.
The job outlook is projected to increase 22% between 2018 and 2028. (Details here).
List of military jobs that typically qualify:
- Army Chaplain (MOS 56A)
- Air Force Mental Health Service (MOS 4C0X1)
- Air Force Religious Affairs (MOS 5R0X1)
Conclusion
Whether you are leaving the military and are in search of civilian employment, or you are considering joining the military, finding a civilian job after the military is something that is often easier said than done.
It can be intimidating to pick a career path without knowing what a specific occupation actually does, the pay in that career field or the job outlook.
The career fields above are all areas where veterans can excel.
The job duties are tasks that are performed in multiple military occupational specialties across various branches.
Using the guide above, find information on the 20 best veteran jobs with or without a degree.
Born and raised in Woodbridge, NJ, he graduated from the New Jersey Institute Of Technology with an MBA in eCommerce.His hobbies include beach volleyball, target shooting, and lifting.
Rob is also a Commercially rated pilot and Certified Flight Instructor (CFI), with over 1,500 hours of flight time.
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