Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Special Forces Candidate
Midlothian, VA · On-site
$22K - $44K/yr
Special Forces Candidate (U.S. Army) About the Job: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled forces in the world. But first ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate
Midlothian, VA · On-site
$22K - $44K/yr
Special Forces Candidate (U.S. Army) About the Job: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled forces in the world. But first ...
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Special Forces Candidate
$22K - $44K/yr
Special Forces Candidate (U.S. Army) About the Job: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled forces in the world. But first ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate
$22K - $44K/yr
Special Forces Candidate (U.S. Army) About the Job: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled forces in the world. But first ...
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate Overview: As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must ...
Special Force (18X)
Morgantown, WV · On-site
Special Forces candidates are given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled combat forces in the world. They must complete and endure the extensive mental/physical ...
Quick apply
Special Force (18X)
Morgantown, WV · On-site
Special Forces candidates are given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled combat forces in the world. They must complete and endure the extensive mental/physical ...
Special Forces Candidate (U.S. Army)
Chesapeake, VA · On-site
$20K/mo
As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled forces in the world. But first, you must complete extensive mental and physical ...
Quick apply
Special Forces Candidate (U.S. Army)
Chesapeake, VA · On-site
$20K/mo
As a Special Forces Candidate, you'll be given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled forces in the world. But first, you must complete extensive mental and physical ...
US Army Soldier
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$50K/yr
US Army Soldier (18X) Special Forces candidates are given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled combat forces in the world. But they must complete and endure extensive ...
Quick apply
US Army Soldier
Charlottesville, VA · On-site
$50K/yr
US Army Soldier (18X) Special Forces candidates are given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled combat forces in the world. But they must complete and endure extensive ...
U.S. Navy Special Warfare
$35K - $125K/yr
Assists with Navy Special Operations or Marine Special Forces teams. * SMT- Air Rescue Medic. Assists Air Rescue teams, ensuring safety. * DMT- Diver Medic. Assists Diver teams, ensuring safety.
Quick apply
U.S. Navy Special Warfare
$35K - $125K/yr
Assists with Navy Special Operations or Marine Special Forces teams. * SMT- Air Rescue Medic. Assists Air Rescue teams, ensuring safety. * DMT- Diver Medic. Assists Diver teams, ensuring safety.
U.S. Navy Special Warfare
Manhattan, NY · On-site
$35K - $125K/yr
Assists with Navy Special Operations or Marine Special Forces teams. * SMT- Air Rescue Medic. Assists Air Rescue teams, ensuring safety. * DMT- Diver Medic. Assists Diver teams, ensuring safety.
Quick apply
U.S. Navy Special Warfare
Manhattan, NY · On-site
$35K - $125K/yr
Assists with Navy Special Operations or Marine Special Forces teams. * SMT- Air Rescue Medic. Assists Air Rescue teams, ensuring safety. * DMT- Diver Medic. Assists Diver teams, ensuring safety.
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Operation Forces: US Navy Seal Are you looking for a career that demands mental toughness, physical endurance, and the ability to operate in high-stakes environments? The U.S. Navy is seeking ...
Special Forces information
See salary details
$21K - $29.2K
3% of jobs
$29.2K - $37.5K
11% of jobs
$43.8K is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$37.5K - $45.7K
15% of jobs
$45.7K - $53.9K
9% of jobs
$53.9K - $62.1K
5% of jobs
$62.1K - $70.4K
6% of jobs
The median wage is $71K / yr.
$70.4K - $78.6K
7% of jobs
$84.8K is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$78.6K - $86.8K
24% of jobs
$86.8K - $95K
8% of jobs
$95K - $103.3K
8% of jobs
$103.3K - $111.5K
2% of jobs
$21K
$68K
$111.5K
How much do special forces jobs pay per year?
As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for special forces in the United States is $67,955.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $86,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the 7 Special Forces units?
The United States Army Special Forces, also known as Green Berets, are organized into several groups, each with specific regional and operational focuses. While there are multiple units within the broader Special Forces community, the primary operational groups include the 1st through 7th Special Forces Groups, each based in different regions and specializing in various missions such as counterterrorism, unconventional warfare, and foreign internal defense.
What is a Special Forces job?
A Special Forces job involves highly trained military personnel who conduct specialized missions, including counterterrorism, direct action, reconnaissance, and unconventional warfare. These elite soldiers operate in small teams and often work in challenging and hostile environments. They undergo rigorous selection and training to develop advanced combat, survival, and strategic skills. Special Forces personnel may also train allied forces and assist in humanitarian or peacekeeping missions. Their role is critical to national security and specialized military operations.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Special Forces position, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Special Forces operative, you need exceptional physical fitness, advanced tactical training, and a proven record of teamwork and adaptability, often supported by a military background and successful completion of specialized selection courses. Mastery of technical tools such as advanced weaponry, communication systems, navigation technology, and survival equipment is essential, as are military certifications unique to the branch. High levels of discipline, resilience, quick decision-making, and cultural awareness distinguish outstanding candidates in this demanding field. These skills and qualities are crucial to ensuring operational success, personal safety, and effective mission execution in diverse, high-pressure environments.
What are the typical daily responsibilities of a Special Forces operator?
Special Forces operators can expect to spend each day engaged in a demanding mix of physical training, specialized skills exercises, mission planning, and equipment maintenance. Daily routines typically include rehearsing tactics, practicing weapons proficiency, learning foreign languages, and participating in briefings or debriefings with their team. Missions may require rapid deployment and collaboration with allied military units or local forces, both at home and abroad. The work environment is highly structured, team-oriented, and requires flexibility to adapt to new challenges or locations at a moment’s notice.
What are the top 10 Special Forces?
The top 10 special forces units globally include the United States Navy SEALs, Delta Force, British SAS, Russian Spetsnaz, French GIGN, Israeli Sayeret Matkal, Australian SAS, Indian MARCOS, German KSK, and South Korean UDT/SEAL. These units are known for their advanced training, specialized skills, and high operational standards in counter-terrorism, reconnaissance, and direct action missions.
What's more elite, SAS or Delta Force?
Special Forces units like the SAS (British Special Air Service) and Delta Force (U.S. 1st SFOD-D) are both highly elite, with selection processes that are extremely rigorous and demanding physical and mental standards. While the SAS is known for its versatility and long-standing history, Delta Force specializes in counter-terrorism and hostage rescue; both require advanced training, security clearances, and exceptional operational skills.
Is 30 too old for Special Forces?
Special Forces candidates typically need to meet age requirements that often cap around 28 to 30 years old, depending on the branch and specific unit. While age can be a factor, physical fitness, military experience, and other qualifications are also critical for selection. Some units may consider older applicants if they demonstrate exceptional skills and fitness levels.
More about Special Forces jobs
What cities are hiring for Special Forces jobs? Cities with the most Special Forces job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Special Forces jobs? The most popular types of Special Forces jobs are:
What states have the most Special Forces jobs? States with the most job openings for Special Forces jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Special Forces jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Special Forces jobs are:
Full-time
Medical, Dental, Vision
Posted 10 days ago
United States Army rating
5.9
Based on 468 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
42nd of 46 rated military and defense
Job description
Special Forces Candidate
Overview:
As a Special Forces Candidate, you’ll be training to become a Green Beret, one of the most highly skilled Soldiers in the world. To join the Army elite, you must complete extensive mental and physical training. There are four entry-level Special Forces Military Occupational Specialties, and your specialty will be decided based on your background, aptitude, and the needs of the Army.
Job Duties:
Special Forces candidates are given the opportunity to become a member of one of the most highly skilled combat forces in the world. They must complete and endure extensive mental/physical training in order to join the Army elite.
Requirements:
- Be between the ages of 17– 40.
- Be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident.
- Possess a High School Diploma or GED.
- Submit to background and medical screening
- Receive a passing score on the ASVAB
Training:
- Attend Basic and Advanced training (22 Weeks) with pay.
- Attend Airborne training with pay.
- Attend Special Forces Prep Course (4 Weeks) with pay.
Some of the skills you'll learn are:
- Language Training: Languages are assigned in relation to the scores from the Defense Language Aptitude Battery test.
- Survival Training: The survival, evasion, resistance, and escape course.
Future Civilian Careers:
The most elite level of military service is arguably, Special Operations Forces. There are a lot of skills that those serving in the special operations forces can bring to a post-military career. Specific careers can also be a perfect fit and would be worth pursuing. Those career paths would be healthcare/ medical fields, personal security, or intelligence officer.
The most elite level of military service is arguably, Special Operations Forces. There are a lot of skills that those serving in the special operations forces can bring to a post-military career. Specific careers can also be a perfect fit and would be worth pursuing. Those career paths would be healthcare/ medical fields, personal security, or intelligence officer.
Key Healthcare Benefits:
TRICARE Health Plan: As a member of the U.S. Army, you and your family can be covered under the TRICARE Health
Plan – a top-tier healthcare program that provides medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
TRICARE Health Plan: As a member of the U.S. Army, you and your family can be covered under the TRICARE Health
Plan – a top-tier healthcare program that provides medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage.
No-Cost Healthcare:
Active-duty members receive medical and dental care at no cost. Your family can also receive healthcare services at military or civilian facilities through TRICARE at little or no cost.
Active-duty members receive medical and dental care at no cost. Your family can also receive healthcare services at military or civilian facilities through TRICARE at little or no cost.
Comprehensive Dental Care:
Receive annual dental check-ups, cleanings, and necessary treatments.
Receive annual dental check-ups, cleanings, and necessary treatments.
Vision Coverage:
Coverage includes routine eye examinations and potential discounts on eyewear or corrective surgery.
Coverage includes routine eye examinations and potential discounts on eyewear or corrective surgery.
Health & Wellness Programs:
Engage in preventive health programs, counseling services, fitness resources, and more to ensure you remain in the best of health.
Engage in preventive health programs, counseling services, fitness resources, and more to ensure you remain in the best of health.
Maternity and Paternity Benefits:
Expectant mothers receive comprehensive prenatal, labor, and postnatal care. New parents are also entitled to maternity and paternity leave.
Expectant mothers receive comprehensive prenatal, labor, and postnatal care. New parents are also entitled to maternity and paternity leave.
Long-term Care:
Access to resources and programs that assist with long-term health needs or disabilities.
Access to resources and programs that assist with long-term health needs or disabilities.
Mental Health Services:
Prioritizing the mental well-being of our service members, the U.S. Army offers counseling, therapy, and other mental health resources.
Prioritizing the mental well-being of our service members, the U.S. Army offers counseling, therapy, and other mental health resources.
Specialized Medical Training:
Depending on your role, you may receive specialized medical training, ensuring that you're equipped with the skills to treat and manage a variety of health situations.
Depending on your role, you may receive specialized medical training, ensuring that you're equipped with the skills to treat and manage a variety of health situations.
Why the U.S. Army:
Professional Growth:
Engage in continued learning, training, and career advancement opportunities.
Engage in continued learning, training, and career advancement opportunities.
Diverse Opportunities:
From combat medic specialists to medical officers, choose a role that fits your passion and expertise.
From combat medic specialists to medical officers, choose a role that fits your passion and expertise.
Community:
Join a tight-knit community that prioritizes camaraderie, service, and mutual support.
Join a tight-knit community that prioritizes camaraderie, service, and mutual support.
What United States Army employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About US Army
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
National security, health care and social assistance, national security and international affairs and public administration
Company size
10,000+ Employees
Headquarters location
Arlington, VA, US