Not sure what career field you want to enter after separating from the military? Want to find a job that compensates you well? Keep reading…
We’ve rounded up some of the hottest six-figure salaried jobs that other veterans like you are landing after leaving the military. Take a look to see if any of them would be an interesting next step in your civilian career.
Top Six-Figure Jobs For Veterans
Chief Information Officer (CIO)
Median Pay: $172,900
Veterans are often hired to direct a company’s IT strategies and manage its infrastructure, a position that pays extremely well. On top of a hefty salary, CIO’s can also be eligible for bonuses and profit sharing payouts between $49,000 and $73,000. *Most CIO’s have at least a bachelor’s degree.
Although there is no specific Chief Information Officer degree program, most companies prefer their executives to have an undergraduate degree in computer science or similar area and later acquire an MBA.
Schools with Computer Science Degree Programs
- Columbia College Missouri
- Alabama State University
- University of Arizona
- Chicago State University
- Indiana State University
Chief Information Security Officer
Median Pay: $156,200
Major data breaches have become all too common these days, which makes the role of chief information security officer more critical than ever. These executives generally oversee a team of employees who are responsible for protecting a company’s information systems and evaluating its security strategies.
Thanks to their background, veterans are four times more likely to hold these positions than other American workers. *Most CISO’s have at least a bachelor’s degree.
Although there is no specific Chief Information Security Officer degree program, most companies look for those who have an undergraduate degree in cyber security or computer science and show a concentration in IT security.
Schools with Cyber Security Degree Programs
- Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
- University of Maryland
- George Mason University
- University of Baltimore
Human Resources Manager
Median Pay: $104,440
Human Resources Managers direct an organization’s recruiting, hiring, and administration functions, including the administration of benefits. They serve as the link between senior leaders and employees. This is a great position for those who are great listeners, have experience managing others and enjoy dealing with people on a daily basis.
*A bachelor’s degree in Human Resources is currently one of the hot degrees to get in 2018! Read more on why, here.
Schools with Human Resources Degree Programs
- Colorado Christian University
- Roosevelt University
- Huntington University
- Northern Kentucky University
- Michigan State University
Air Traffic Controller
Median Pay: $122,950
Air Traffic Controllers issue landing and takeoff instructions to pilots. They monitor and direct the movement of aircraft on the ground and in the air, using radar, computers, or visual references. Lastly, they control all ground traffic at airports, including baggage vehicles and airport workers. This extremely important job is reflected in its high paying salary.
If you have experience as an air traffic controller in the military then this would be an easy transition for you.
Schools with Air Traffic Controller Programs
Senior Program Manager, IT
Median Pay: $144,000
Lots of companies are putting the communications technology training that veterans have to good use.
Military veterans often have experience leading groups of soldiers at relatively young ages, and can transition those skills into leading an office team in charge of a specific project within an organization. *Most senior program managers (especially in IT) have at least a bachelor’s degree.
Schools with IT Degree Programs
- University of Central Florida
- Columbus State University
- Boise State University
- University of Nebraska at Omaha
- Drexel University
Management Consultant
Median Pay: $92,600
Here’s another gig that is logistical. Management consultants are brought in to help companies operate more efficiently. They serve as guides and outside experts on everything from manufacturing efficiency and employee scheduling, to finances and supply-chain management. It’s a job for someone who is analytical and can think strategically. *Management consultants typically have bachelor’s degrees in engineering, mathematics, finance or business.
Most consultants have a bachelor’s degree and experience in the field they are consulting on. If you liked the work you did during your years in the military, consider going into that industry on the civilian side as a consultant. You might also consider getting an undergraduate degree in that field to boost your likelihood of getting the job over other applicants.
Experience & An Education
A lot of these jobs draw heavily on having experience in the field. Some however do require a bachelor’s degree. If you are thinking of using your GI Bill, all of the schools mentioned above also have varying student veteran support and outreach. Start a conversation with the schools to see how else they can help support you.
