ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Master Sergeant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsGovernment JobsPolice JobsPolice Sergeant JobsMaster Sergeant Jobs

Master Sergeant information

See salary details

$37.5K

$56.9K

$84K

How much do master sergeant jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for master sergeant in the United States is $56,879.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a master sergeant?

A Master Sergeant is a senior non-commissioned officer rank in the military, typically found in the U.S. Army, Air Force, and Marine Corps. They serve as experienced leaders, managing personnel, training, and daily operations within their unit. Master Sergeants are responsible for mentoring junior enlisted members and advising officers, ensuring that mission objectives are met efficiently. Their expertise and leadership are crucial to maintaining discipline, readiness, and morale within their teams.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a master sergeant?

To thrive as a Master Sergeant, you need advanced leadership abilities, operational expertise, and several years of military experience, typically accompanied by completion of required professional military education. Familiarity with military communication platforms, personnel management systems, and mission-planning tools is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to mentor and motivate subordinates help set exceptional Master Sergeants apart. These skills ensure effective team performance, mission accomplishment, and the development of junior personnel in demanding military environments.

What are some common challenges master sergeants face when transitioning from technical roles to leadership positions within their unit?

Master Sergeants often face the challenge of shifting from hands-on technical responsibilities to broader leadership and mentorship roles. This transition requires developing strong communication and delegation skills, as well as adapting to increased administrative duties and strategic planning. Balancing the needs of their team with mission objectives and supporting the professional growth of junior enlisted members are key aspects. Successful Master Sergeants typically seek out mentorship, continuous professional education, and actively engage with both peers and superiors to navigate these changes effectively.

What is the difference between Master Sergeant vs Sergeant First Class?

AspectMaster SergeantSergeant First Class
CredentialsMilitary experience, leadership training, specialized certificationsMilitary experience, leadership training, similar certifications
Work EnvironmentMilitary units, leadership roles, administrative dutiesMilitary units, supervisory roles, operational support
Employer & IndustryMilitary branches, defense industryMilitary branches, defense industry
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership levels in the militarySimilar rank, different responsibilities

Master Sergeant and Sergeant First Class are both senior non-commissioned officers in the military, with overlapping credentials and work environments. The main difference lies in their specific roles and responsibilities within the military hierarchy, with Master Sergeants typically holding more administrative and leadership duties at higher levels.

How hard is it to become a master sergeant?

Becoming a master sergeant typically requires several years of military service, demonstrated leadership, and successful completion of professional development courses and exams. Advancement depends on performance, available positions, and meeting specific time-in-service and time-in-grade requirements within the military branch.
More about Master Sergeant jobs

What job categories do people searching Master Sergeant jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Master Sergeant jobs are:

Master Sergeant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Master Sergeant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $56,879 per year, or $27.3 per hour.

WING COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT (TITLE 32)

US Department of the Air Force

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$89K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

THIS IS A NATIONAL GUARD TITLE 32 EXCEPTED SERVICE POSITION.

This National Guard position is for a WING COMMAND CHIEF MASTER SERGEANT (TITLE 32), Position Description Number NGD2678000 and is part of the TN 134th ARW Air National Guard.
This announcement is a dual bid with AGR Announcement A26-048, only one selection will be made.

Qualifications:

Military Grades: E-9
GENERAL EXPERIENCE: Experience, education or training which provided a general knowledge of principles of organization, management, and administration. Compiling reports, letters, memoranda, etc., and required person-to-person contacts to convey information. Progressively responsible experience which demonstrates the ability to provide technical guidance and assistance in the type of work or in comparable work of the position to be filled. Experience using computer and automation systems.
SPECIALIZED EXPERIENCE: Must have 1-year at the next lower GS level or 36 months experience, education or training in program or managerial experience in a type of work or a combination of functions directly related to the position to be filled or in comparable work or functions. Experience developing and recommending policy; organizing and carrying out specific programs, evaluating and recommending changes in methods of operations. Experience in supervisory, staff or technical work which included study, analysis or evaluation leading to the development or improvement of managerial or administrative policies, practices and procedures. Experience preparing written communications and oral presentations.

Education:

Education Requirement: None
Substitution of Education to qualify for this position is not available.

Employment Type: OTHER

Apply