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Military Background Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Patriot Enterprises LLC

Military background/familiarity preferred MISCELLANEOUS: U.S. Citizen required. Must pass an extensive background investigation Military Personnel Specialist Our Equal Employment Opportunity Policy:

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Military Background information

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$11K

$35K

$41.5K

How much do military background jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for military background in the United States is $35,000.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $30,000.00 and $40,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Military Background vs Security Guard?

AspectMilitary BackgroundSecurity Guard
Required credentialsMilitary training, certifications, sometimes security licensesSecurity license, basic training, sometimes certifications
Work environmentMilitary bases, combat zones, disciplined settingsCommercial properties, events, residential areas
Employer and industry usageMilitary, defense contractors, governmentPrivate security firms, corporations, event venues
Common search and comparison intentUnderstanding military skills applicability in security rolesTransitioning military skills to civilian security jobs

Military Background and Security Guard roles share similarities in security-related skills and certifications. However, military experience often involves advanced training, discipline, and work in high-stakes environments, whereas security guards typically operate in civilian settings with different licensing requirements. Both roles are vital in safety and protection, but they differ in scope, environment, and credentials.

What are military backgrounds?

A military background refers to the experience and training gained by serving in a branch of the armed forces, such as the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard. Individuals with a military background often possess skills such as leadership, discipline, teamwork, and technical expertise, which are valued in both military and civilian roles. Their experiences may include specialized training, deployments, and a strong sense of duty and service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive with a military background, and why are they important?

To thrive with a military background, individuals need strong leadership, discipline, adaptability, and often specialized training or education depending on their military branch or occupational specialty. Familiarity with military protocols, advanced equipment, weapons systems, and relevant certifications like security clearances are typically required. Outstanding teamwork, resilience, and effective communication are valuable soft skills that enhance performance both within units and in interactions with civilian counterparts. These skills and qualifications are crucial as they ensure mission readiness, operational effectiveness, and successful transition to civilian roles when applicable.

What jobs in the US pay 300,000 a year?

Military officers in high-ranking positions such as generals or admirals can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $300,000 annually, especially with allowances and bonuses. Additionally, some specialized roles like defense contractors, cybersecurity experts, or senior government officials with military backgrounds may reach this level through combined compensation, experience, and additional benefits.

What is the 3 month rule for jobs?

The 3 month rule in a military background context often refers to the expectation that new hires demonstrate reliability and adaptability within the first three months of employment. Employers may evaluate performance, conduct training, or probation periods during this time to determine ongoing employment suitability. This period is also used to assess skills, discipline, and integration into the team environment.

What jobs pay 10,000 a month without a degree?

Military backgrounds can lead to high-paying roles such as commercial pilots, real estate brokers, or sales managers, which often pay $10,000 or more monthly. These jobs typically require specialized skills, certifications, or experience rather than a college degree, and may involve sales, technical expertise, or leadership responsibilities.

What are some common challenges faced when transitioning from a military background to a civilian job, and how can candidates address them?

Transitioning from a military background to a civilian role often involves adapting to new workplace cultures, learning different communication styles, and translating military skills into civilian-friendly language. Job seekers may also encounter differences in organizational structures and expectations for autonomy and collaboration. To address these challenges, it’s helpful to seek out mentorship, participate in transition assistance programs, and tailor your resume to highlight transferable skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving. Networking and proactive engagement with veteran-friendly employers can also enhance your transition experience.

What jobs can you get with a military background?

A military background can qualify individuals for a wide range of jobs including security, law enforcement, logistics, project management, and technical roles such as cybersecurity or engineering. Veterans often bring skills like discipline, leadership, and teamwork that are valued in many industries, and they may also pursue certifications or training to transition into civilian careers.
More about Military Background jobs
What states have the most Military Background jobs? States with the most job openings for Military Background jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Military Background jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Military Background jobs are:
Military Background jobs near you
Infographic showing various Military Background job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,000 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Directed Energy Systems, Military Background Specialist

Directed Energy Systems, Military Background Specialist

AMERICAN SYSTEMS

Arlington, VA • On-site

$200K - $230K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Overview
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is an employee-owned federal government contractor supporting national priority programs through our strategic solutions in the areas of Information Technology, Test & Evaluation, Program Mission Support, Engineering & Analysis, and Training.
Responsibilities
Working on the Department of War critical technology areas offers a dynamic, fast-paced environment at the forefront of advancing national defense capabilities in areas such as Quantum and Battlefield Information Dominance, Applied AI, Biomanufacturing, and more. Your role will involve close interaction with senior DoW leaders and stakeholders across the RDT&E community. You will have the opportunity to contribute to decision-making processes impacting the Department's most critical modernization efforts. This project requires a high level of professionalism and a commitment to shaping the future of national security capabilities.
As a Directed Energy Systems, Military Background Specialist supporting the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering within the Directed Energy portfolio, you will have the opportunity to do the following:
  • Support the office leadership as a subject matter expert in Directed Energy systems, high energy lasers, high power microwave systems, and related technology development.
  • Provide specialized expertise in directed energy systems, military background.
  • Advise senior DoW leadership on strategic direction, technology modernization priorities, and emerging capability gaps relevant to the Directed Energy portfolio.
  • Develop technology roadmaps, strategic assessments, presentations, and executive-level products to support modernization initiatives and investment planning.
  • Coordinate and engage with the RDT&E community including government laboratories, industry, academia, FFRDCs, UARCs, and international partners.
  • Analyze and track technical programs across the Department; assist in technical evaluations, requirements development, and transition planning.
  • Prepare briefings, reports, white papers, and other business and technical products in support of senior leadership decision-making.

Qualifications
  • 7 years of experience in the Scientific, Research, Development, Test, and Evaluation sector for Industry, Academia, or Government relevant to the technical focus of the applicable office.
  • PhD in a relevant hard science or engineering discipline (e.g., Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science); a Master's degree and an additional 5 years of experience can be substituted for a PhD.
  • Demonstrated expertise in directed energy systems, military background.
  • Demonstrated experience supporting the DoW RDT&E community and working with senior technical and acquisition stakeholders.
  • Must have a current and active TS/SCI clearance; prior SAP experience is highly preferred.
  • U.S. Citizenship Required for the purposes of obtaining/holding a U.S. security clearance.

Pay Transparency Statement
AMERICAN SYSTEMS is committed to pay transparency for our applicants and employee-owners. The salary range for this position is USD $200,000.00/Yr. - USD $230,000/Yr. Actual compensation will be determined based on several factors permitted by law. AMERICAN SYSTEMS provides for the welfare of its employees and their dependents through a comprehensive benefits program by offering healthcare benefits, paid leave, retirement plans, insurance programs, and education and training assistance.
EEO Statement
EEO Race/Sex/Disability Status/Veteran Status

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