Transitioning from military to civilian life isn’t always easy. It involves adapting to a new lifestyle, and often, a new career path. Fortunately, there are many job opportunities for veterans. Being in the military requires leadership, discipline, and resilience, which are all highly valued qualities in the job market. Here are 13 job opportunities for veterans looking to transition into civilian life.
1. Information Technology Specialist
Many veterans have experience using technology and software systems. As a result, roles in IT, such as network administration or cybersecurity, can be a natural fit. These are beneficial job opportunities for veterans since these fields are always growing and hiring. There will always be a need for this work.
2. Project Manager
As long as they have the resources, there are many job opportunities for veterans. For instance, they can start a career as a project manager. The ability to oversee projects is a key skill for many companies, and with natural leadership, veterans are the perfect candidates. They won’t get overwhelmed by the stress.
3. Law Enforcement Officer
Nearly 25% of today’s law enforcement has some military background according to the Community Policing Dispatch. Many veterans transition into law enforcement due to the similar structure and discipline of the work environment. Veterans are brave and used to being in positions of authority. As such, they’re not intimidated by the demands and risks associated with police work.
4. Government Services
Veterans often find rewarding careers in federal, state, or local government. These organizations benefit from the veteran’s experience, and in turn, the veteran feels comfortable with the hierarchical structure. There are a plethora of job opportunities for veterans within the government. It’s possible to find a position that works with their personality, interests, and intended lifestyle.
5. Defense Contracting
When it comes to job opportunities for veterans, the best options are somehow still connected to the military. Defense contracting could be a good field to consider. By working in this industry, the veterans can still be involved in the military, while at the same time, following an entirely new career path. This field is still as fast-paced, but with less stress.
6. Healthcare Professional
Do the veterans have medical training? If so, they can become doctors, nurses, EMTs, or other healthcare professionals. There are many job opportunities for veterans in the medical field, even if it’s behind the scenes as an administrator or receptionist. They could even work in medical sales.
7. Human Resources Specialist
Human resources is a great career choice for anyone who loves to help others. As such, veterans are a no-brainer! To work in HR, you need to be able to train others, juggle multiple administrative tasks, and be very organized. Veterans are a good match since they used similar skills while in the service.
8. Supply Chain Manager
Logistics and supply management are critical in the military. Some veterans had to handle the cargo and have expertise in this area. These skills are directly applicable to supply chain roles in various industries. The best part is these jobs could even be remote, which helps with work-life balance.
9. Education and Training
Surprisingly, there is a significant teacher shortage in the United States. Schools are looking for new educators, and veterans are an excellent choice! These hard workers are excellent teachers, trainers, and educational administrators for many reasons. People will look up to them as role models and mentors.
10. Entrepreneur
Some veterans may want a position of authority in their future careers. If they are ambitious enough, they could use the leadership and problem-solving skills they developed in the military to start their own business. This business could be a huge operation, or something small. It all depends on the lifestyle the veteran wants to maintain.
11. Commercial Pilot
Many veterans have military flight experience, especially if they were in the Air Force. After they retire from the military, they may pursue careers as commercial pilots. Being a pilot is a fulfilling career path for veterans. They can use their skills, while also traveling around the world.
12. Construction Manager
Because veterans are used to managing complex operations, they may find construction management a fulfilling career. To be in this field, an individual also needs to be able to work under pressure, a skill veterans have in spades. It’s possible the veteran may like this career path but doesn’t want to be in charge. If so, they can always join as a regular member of the construction crew.
13. Automotive Mechanic
For those with mechanical skills developed during their service, working as an automotive mechanic is a stable and rewarding career path. This career is an especially good choice for any veteran who loves cars. The veteran can pursue a passion while making an income. Even if they don’t want to work for a shop, they can always do side work from their homes, setting their own hours.
Finding a New Career
Veterans bring a unique set of skills and experiences to the workforce. By finding a career that aligns with these skills, they can not only ease their transition to civilian life but also excel in their new roles. It’s worth taking the time to find a career that utilizes their skills, focuses on one of their passions, and provides the work-life balance they deserve.
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Alyssa Serio has been a writer and editor since graduating from Aurora University in 2014. In her free time, she loves reading, playing volleyball, and watching any horror movie (even the bad ones) with her husband.