If you want to find the best jobs for veterans, it’s strategic to recognize where your military skills can apply in the civilian job market.
In this guide, you can explore career fields that not only welcome veterans but also thrive because of them. From the precision in welding to the critical thinking in tech and healthcare, there are many roles in which your military experience is not just appreciated but essential.
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Let’s explore where your service skills can take you next.
Best Jobs for Veterans
The following 20 roles are just some of the civilian positions in which veterans can apply their military discipline, skills, and experience.
In determining the best jobs for military veterans, our methodology focuses on median salary, expected job growth over the next ten years, and education and training requirements. The included salary and job growth data comes from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Select the program that most interests you to jump to that section of the guide:
- Human Resources Manager
- Software Developer
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Construction Manager
- Operations Manager
- Financial Analyst
- Management Analyst
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator
- Registered Nurse
- Logistician
- Law Enforcement Officer
- Sales Representative
- Physical Therapist Assistant
- Electrician
- Private Detective or Investigator
- Firefighter
- Welder
- Automotive Technician
- Medical Assistant
Exploring your options may help you determine which academic path is right for you.
Human Resources Manager
Annual Median Salary: $130,000
Job Growth: 5%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in HR, business, or a related field, with relevant work experience
Some veterans are natural fits as human resources managers, bringing their leadership, communication, and team-building skills to the forefront.
Your experience in handling diverse situations and personnel in the military can translate to managing workplace dynamics and fostering a positive, productive environment for all employees.
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Software Developer
Annual Median Salary: $127,260
Job Growth: 26%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in computer and information technology or a related field
The problem-solving skills and meticulous attention to detail honed in the military can apply to the role of a software developer.
A military member’s adeptness at handling complex challenges and adapting to new scenarios can be utilized in the dynamic field of software development.
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Information Security Analyst
Annual Median Salary: $112,000
Job Growth: 32%
Education / Training Required: High school education with industry certification; bachelor’s in computer science or a related field preferred
Becoming an information security analyst may be a natural transition for some veterans.
Your strategic, analytical, and disciplined skills honed in the military could become key assets in safeguarding digital infrastructures. This role values the unique perspectives and problem-solving capabilities that often come with military experience.
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Computer Systems Analyst
Annual Median Salary: $102,240
Job Growth: 10%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in computer science, IT, or a related field
The strategic mindset and problem-solving skills developed in the military can apply to a career as a computer systems analyst.
This role analyzes complex systems and proposes efficient solutions, requiring skills that often align well with the analytical and adaptive qualities honed during military service.
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Construction Manager
Annual Median Salary: $101,480
Job Growth: 5%
Education / Training Required: High school education with relevant experience; associate’s in construction management with experience; bachelor’s in construction, business, or a related field preferred
The rigorous discipline, leadership, and project management skills cultivated during military service are directly transferable to the role of a construction manager.
This position requires the ability to oversee projects with precision, manage teams effectively, and make decisive, informed decisions under pressure.
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Operations Manager
Annual Median Salary: $98,100
Job Growth: 4%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in business or a related field, often with work experience
Former service members may consider roles as operations managers, applying their leadership abilities and resilience under pressure.
Skills in strategic planning, coordinating teams, and making decisions can translate to managing a company’s daily operations, pursuing efficiency and effectiveness across all levels.
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Financial Analyst
Annual Median Salary: $96,220
Job Growth: 8%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in business or a related field
The discipline, attention to detail, and analytical skills honed during military service could be beneficial in a financial analyst role.
Handling complex data, making informed decisions, and planning strategically are areas where former military personnel often excel, providing a solid foundation for the finance industry.
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Management Analyst
Annual Median Salary: $95,290
Job Growth: 10%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in business, social science, or related fields, often with work experience
The strategic thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and leadership qualities developed in the military can apply to the role of a management analyst.
These professionals aim to optimize organizational efficiency and solve complex business challenges.
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Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Annual Median Salary: $90,520
Job Growth: 2%
Education / Training Required: Postsecondary certificate, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree related to computer or information science
Some veterans work as network and computer systems administrators, leveraging their structured thinking and problem-solving skills honed in the military.
Your knack for quick thinking and maintaining operational readiness could translate into keeping computer networks running smoothly and efficiently.
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Registered Nurse
Annual Median Salary: $81,220
Job Growth: 6%
Education / Training Required: Postsecondary diploma, associate degree, or bachelors degree in nursing
Veterans often possess teamwork and leadership skills as well as the ability to manage stress. These qualities are also valued in the field of nursing.
Registered nurses must remain composed under pressure and make decisions quickly in order to deliver high-quality care and support to patients.
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Logistician
Annual Median Salary: $77,520
Job Growth: 18%
Education / Training Required: Bachelor’s in business, logistics, or a related field preferred; work experience may substitute for education
Veterans with expertise in logistics and supply chain management may excel as logisticians.
You might bring a strategic approach to overseeing and improving the flow of goods and services. Your organizational skills and ability to perform under pressure could help ensure operations run smoothly and efficiently.
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Law Enforcement Officer
Annual Median Salary: $69,160
Job Growth: 3%
Education / Training Required: High school education, along with training at a police academy; college coursework or degree preferred by some agencies and departments
The discipline, integrity, and leadership skills cultivated in the military are invaluable for a career in law enforcement.
This field demands quick decision-making, ethical judgment, and a strong sense of duty—common qualities among those with military experience.
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Sales Representative
Annual Median Salary: $67,750
Job Growth: 1%
Education / Training Required: High school education; bachelor’s preferred for technical and scientific sales reps
The adaptability, communication skills, and discipline gained through military service are assets in the sales industry. It’s beneficial for sales representatives to build relationships, understand needs, and present solutions clearly.
Veterans are often adept at these skills thanks to their experience in diverse environments and high-stakes situations.
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Physical Therapist Assistant
Annual Median Salary: $62,770
Job Growth: 26%
Education / Training Required: CAPTE accredited associate’s in physical therapy assistant
Teamwork, attention to detail, and commitment to helping others are military traits that translate to the role of a physical therapist assistant.
PTAs follow detailed plans, communicate effectively with patients, and adapt to their needs. These qualities often align with the disciplined and service-oriented nature of veterans.
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Electrician
Annual Median Salary: $60,240
Job Growth: 6%
Education / Training Required: High school education and apprenticeship
An attention to detail and problem-solving skills are highly beneficial for a career as an electrician.
This role demands precision, safety awareness, and the ability to quickly adapt to new challenges—elements that veterans used to the rigor and discipline of military life are often well-equipped to handle.
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Private Detective or Investigator
Annual Median Salary: $52,120
Job Growth: 6%
Education / Training Required: High school education, on-the-job training, and experience in law enforcement or military
This profession relies on the ability to gather information, analyze situations critically, and remain undetected.
The analytical skills, attention to detail, and discretion developed in the military are invaluable for a career as a private investigator or detective.
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Firefighter
Annual Median Salary: $51,680
Job Growth: 4%
Education / Training Required: High school education, along with training at a fire academy
The resilience, teamwork, and quick decision-making skills developed in the military are a strategic match for the demands of firefighting.
This profession requires individuals who can remain calm under pressure, who work well in a team, and who are committed to protecting their community.
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Welder
Annual Median Salary: $47,540
Job Growth: 1%
Education / Training Required: High school education and on-the-job training; technical training in welding preferred
The precision, discipline, and focus required in the military align with the skills needed for welding.
This profession demands a steady hand, a keen eye for detail, and the ability to follow strict safety protocols—qualities that veterans often possess.
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Automotive Technician
Annual Median Salary: $46,970
Job Growth: 2%
Education / Training Required: High school education; postsecondary training in auto technology preferred
An automotive technician diagnoses, maintains, and repairs vehicles.
If you have military experience with machinery and systems troubleshooting, you could be well-equipped for this detailed and hands-on profession. This role is fitting for veterans who thrive in problem-solving and technical environments.
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Medical Assistant
Annual Median Salary: $38,270
Job Growth: 14%
Education / Training Required: High school education with on-the-job training; postsecondary medical assistant certificate preferred
Medical assistants ensure high-quality patient care and efficient clinic operations.
This role requires precision, discipline, organizational skills, and the ability to perform under pressure in fast-paced environments. These are skills that veterans have often mastered through their service.
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Choosing Good Jobs for Veterans
As you explore careers for veterans, here are some main considerations:
- Skill transferability. Leadership, crisis management, and strategic thinking are just some of the military skills you may have. You might consider where these skills can shine brightest, such as in project management or emergency services.
- Job market demand. You could direct your attention to growing industries that are actively seeking the unique discipline and perspective you bring. Tech and healthcare are prime examples of fields that value adaptability and reliability.
- Growth opportunities. You might look for a role that leverages your skills and offers room for expansion over time.
- Training and education requirements. You might reflect on whether you’re ready for further education or prefer roles that value your existing toolkit. Some fields offer training on the job.
- Support for veterans. Companies that understand the transition you’re making can be invaluable. It’s helpful to find not only companies hiring veterans but companies supporting their journeys into civilian roles.
According to Military OneSource, transitioning from military to civilian employment is about finding a role that not only values your service but also offers a rewarding and sustainable career path.
Employment Resources for Military Vets
Here’s your quick guide to employment resources for military vets:
- Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS). VETS offers a wide range of services designed to help veterans transition to civilian life, including job search assistance, career counseling, and access to job fairs.
- Hiring Our Heroes. This program helps veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses find employment through job fairs, fellowships, and a vast network of corporate partners.
- Military.com’s Veteran Jobs Board. This platform is packed with job listings, tips, and tools to translate your military service into civilian terms.
- Feds Hire Vets. This platform offers a job board for veterans seeking federal employment. It also provides career support for current veteran employees.
- Veteran Readiness and Employment (VR&E). This VA program offers job support to veterans with service-connected disabilities. Their services include help with job training, education, and resume development.
These resources and others like them are ready to help you transition into the civilian workforce, guiding you towards the best jobs after the military.
What Challenges Do Veterans Commonly Face When Entering the Civilian Workforce and How Can They Be Overcome?
When transitioning to the civilian workforce, veterans may face a number of challenges. A common hurdle when creating a resume is translating military skills and experience to civilian terms. Many transitioning service members also deal with the feeling of not fitting in.
According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, feeling undervalued or misunderstood in the civilian workspace is common for veterans, too. Fortunately, there are a number of resources that offer support to veterans and can help you overcome these challenges.
Some of the many platforms that offer job support to veterans even help you refine your resume, practice interview skills, and network with fellow veterans.
How Can Veterans Identify Which Civilian Jobs Best Match Their Military Skills?
Finding a civilian job that fits your military skillset is all about understanding and translating your military experience. You can start by breaking down your service into core skills—like leadership, problem-solving, and technical know-how. You can then look for civilian roles that value these strengths.
A helpful resource in this journey is CareerOneStop.org, an online platform backed by the US Department of Labor. This platform is designed to help veterans map out their military skills and compare them against civilian job requirements, offering a bridge between your past experiences and your future career path.
Can Veterans Find Successful Careers Without a College Degree?
Your military service has likely equipped you with skills that can lead to successful careers without the need of a college degree.
Some of the best jobs for veterans without degrees are found in industries that value the leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills you’ve honed in the military over formal education. For instance, many veterans consider federal employment or entry-level security roles.
Fields like cybersecurity, IT, logistics, and project management often have high paying jobs for veterans with military experience and the right certifications. Certifications can often be earned more quickly than a formal degree.
Jobs for Vets: Stepping into Civilian Roles
As you explore good paying jobs for veterans, you might also be considering further education. Pursuing specialized training through a certificate or degree program, like an online military science degree, could tailor your expertise to your preferred field and open up new opportunities.
There are a number of job resources and educational benefits available to eligible service members and veterans. Military friendly schools are especially supportive of veterans and their transition into the civilian workforce.
You can start exploring accredited schools today to find the type of program and area of study that best aligns with your interests and professional goals.
