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Combat Zone Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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Combat Zone information

See California salary details

$23.2K

$56.8K

$73K

How much do combat zone jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for combat zone in California is $56,775.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,300.00 and $64,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a combat zone?

A Combat Zone job typically refers to a role performed within a designated combat area, often in military or defense-related operations. These jobs can include military personnel, private security contractors, medical staff, and support roles such as logistics or engineering. Individuals in these positions may face hazardous conditions and are often eligible for special benefits or tax exclusions. The exact definition of a Combat Zone can vary depending on military or government designations.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in combat zones, and how can they prepare for them?

Working in a combat zone presents unique challenges such as exposure to hostile environments, high stress, and the need for rapid decision-making under pressure. Professionals must be prepared to adapt quickly to changing situations, maintain situational awareness, and follow strict safety protocols. Building resilience, undergoing comprehensive training, and developing strong communication skills are essential for successfully navigating these challenges while collaborating effectively with diverse teams in high-risk settings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a combat zone worker, and why are they important?

To thrive in a combat zone role (such as a military service member or contractor), you need physical fitness, tactical training, and relevant security clearances or military qualifications. Familiarity with military-grade equipment, communications systems, and potentially certifications like CPR or first aid are typically required. Resilience, teamwork, and strong decision-making skills are crucial soft skills for operating effectively under pressure. These abilities ensure mission success, personal safety, and the well-being of the team in high-risk environments.

What is the difference between Combat Zone vs Security Guard?

AspectCombat ZoneSecurity Guard
Required CredentialsMilitary or law enforcement training, security clearanceSecurity license, basic training
Work EnvironmentMilitary settings, conflict zones, high-risk areasCommercial, residential, event venues
Employer & Industry UsageMilitary, government, defense contractorsPrivate security firms, corporations, institutions

Combat Zone roles involve military or law enforcement training and typically operate in high-risk, conflict environments. Security Guard positions focus on protecting property and people in more controlled, civilian settings. While both require security-related credentials, the scope and environment differ significantly, reflecting their distinct responsibilities and industries.

Infographic showing various Combat Zone job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,775 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

Telecommunications Specialist (SATCOM)

Defense Logistics Agency

San Luis Obispo, CA

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Manage all Ku-band SATCOM and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite systems to support mission requirements.

  • Oversee and configure high frequency, very high frequency, ultra high frequency, and cellular communication systems in support of national security and emergency preparedness.

  • Perform bandwidth studies, gap analyses, and long-range telecommunications forecasts.


Defense Logistics Agency rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 35 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

276th of 855 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

Telework Eligible

No

Major Duties

  • Incumbent serves as the Satellite Communications (SATCOM) Manager and Trip Lead for the entire spectrum of local and remote emergency operations.
  • Manages all Ku-band SATCOM and Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite systems, managing and configuring these platforms to support mission requirements including management and oversight of all TFSO contracts related to Ku-band and LEO satellite services.
  • Oversee High Frequency (HF), Very High Frequency (VHF), and Ultra High Frequency (UHF), and cellular communications systems in support of National Security/Emergency Preparedness (NS/EP) and contingency plans.
  • Maintains overall responsibility for matters relating to the implementation of satellite Radio Frequency (RF) communications for IT transport and terrestrial radio networks.
  • Performs bandwidth studies, gap analyses, and long-range telecommunications forecasts.
  • Advises senior managers on emerging technologies and program enhancements.

Qualification Summary

To qualify for a Telecommunications Specialist (SATCOM), your resume and supporting documentation must support: A. Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience that equipped you with the particular competencies to successfully perform the duties of the position and is directly in or related to this position. To qualify at the GS-14 level, applicants must possess one year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-13 level or equivalent under other pay systems in the Federal service, military, or private sector. Applicants must meet eligibility requirements including minimum qualifications, and any other regulatory requirements by the cut-off/closing date of the announcement. Creditable specialized experience includes: Designing, integrating, and managing wide-area communications networks using commercial and DoD SATCOM platforms, including Ku-band, LEO systems, and Ground Entry Points (GEPs). Managing and configuring HF, VHF, UHF, RF-over-fiber, cellular, and terrestrial radio networks to support COOP/NSEP missions. Developing and implementing telecommunications plans, lifecycle strategies, Service Level Agreements (SLAs), contingency communication plans, and operational procedures. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional, philanthropic, religious, spiritual, community, student, social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. To be found well-qualified as an ICTAP applicant, individuals need to demonstrate experience such as: Experience designing, integrating, and managing wide-area communications networks using commercial and DoD SATCOM platforms, including Ku-band, LEO systems, and Ground Entry Points (GEPs). Experience managing and configuring HF, VHF, UHF, RF-over-fiber, cellular, and terrestrial radio networks to support COOP/NSEP missions. Experience developing and implementing telecommunications plans, lifecycle strategies, SLAs, contingency communication plans, and operational procedures. This is an Expeditionary Civilian (EC) position, and the incumbent will be designated as Non-Combat Essential (NCE). In the event of a crisis situation, the incumbent may be required to deploy via temporary reassignment or be required to stay in place to support contingency operations. The incumbent may be required to take part in readiness exercises. This position cannot be vacated during a national emergency or mobilization without seriously impairing the capability of the organization to function effectively; therefore, the position requires the incumbent to be screened from military recall. Military Reservists selected for an EC position must arrange for removal from the reserve component prior to appointment to an EC position. This requirement must be met prior to placement in an EC position. Positions identified as EE are subject to deployment to combat support situations. Deployment will be via Temporary Duty (TDY) orders. Deployment may entitle the employee to additional monetary compensation dependent upon the deployment location. Additional allocations are based on the Department of State's determination of a combat zone


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