Pathway: Protective Services
Job: Armed Forces Personnel

Job Description

The Armed Forces encompasses the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, their Reserve components, and the Air and Army National Guard. The military is comprised of enlisted and officer careers. Enlisted personnel make up about 85% of the Armed Forces and carry out the fundamental operations of the military. Officers make up about 15% of the Armed Forces and are the leaders of the military.

Necessary Education

High School Diploma for most enlisted personnel, while officers need a Bachelor’s or advanced degree.

Helpful High School Courses

English, Mathematics, Computer Applications; other courses vary depending on career interest

Working Conditions

• Hours and working conditions can be demanding and vary substantially
  
• Some training and duty assignments are hazardous, even in peacetime

Salary Range

• Dependent on total years of service and position rank
  

Career Ladder Information

• Selection for a particular type of training depends on the needs of the service, the applicant’s personal preference, and his/her general and technical aptitudes
  
• Requirements for each service vary, but certain qualifications for enlistment are common to all branches – such as age, citizen/resident status, written exam, and physical standards
  
• Following enlistment, individuals undergo basic training and then usually take additional technical training
• Many military personnel retire with a pension after 20 years of service, while they still are young enough to start a new career
• Each service has different criteria for promoting personnel. Generally, the first few promotions for both enlisted and officer personnel come easily; subsequent promotions are much more competitive
• In addition to basic pay, military personnel receive free room and board (or housing allowance), medical and dental care, military clothing allowance, military supermarket and department store shopping privileges, 30 days of paid vacation a year (referred to as leave), travel opportunities, use of athletic and other facilities, and retirement benefits
  
• The Veteran’s Administration (VA) provides numerous benefits to those who have served at least 2 years in the Armed Forces - such as VA hospital care, eligibility for loans and educational benefits, and job counseling, testing, and placement services

Personal Qualities and Interests

     You:

• Are willing to dedicate your services for the U.S. to maintain a strong national defense
  
• Are willing to follow a structured and/or rigorous daily schedule

Did you know?

• Opportunities should be good in all branches of the Armed Forces for applicants who meet designated standards.

Additional Information

• Occupational Outlook Handbook http://www.bls.gov/oco

  
  

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