Fire support specialist, also known as 13F in the military occupational specialty (MOS) codes, is a job that requires both multi-tasking and communications network abilities, not to mention a cool head under fire. Below are a number of career opportunities for veterans in which military service could give them an edge.
Career Comparison
| Job Title | Median Wage (2021)* | Job Growth (2021-2031)* | Applicable Military Skills/Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks | $45,560 | -5% | Experience entering data and calculating to exacting specifications |
| Computer Support Specialists | $57,910 | 6% | Setting up communication systems, computer experience |
| Computer Network Architects | $120,520 | 4% | Experience setting up communications system, planning and coordination skills |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $99,270 | 9% | Practical experience with personnel/computer systems interface, security clearance |
| Database Administrators | $101,000 | 9% | Aptitude with calculations, numbers, and logic |
Source: *U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics
Civilian Jobs for 13F Veterans
There are many opportunities in the civilian work force that can make great use of the skills and talents of a former fire support specialist. See which of these careers may be your next opportunity.
Bookkeeping, Accounting, and Auditing Clerks
Fire support specialists are required to do a considerable number of calculations while maintaining radio contact and potentially under fire. After that, the most tangled accounting and ledger books should be easy to tackle.
Bookkeeping, accounting and auditing clerks enter data into systems from which they produce financial reports and statements. Each of the positions has somewhat different levels of responsibility depending upon experience and education. For all three one must be accurate and detail-oriented, traits that 13F veterans have developed through their service. A degree may not be required for entry-level positions, but to rise in the field of accounting it is necessary to have a bachelor's degree.
Computer Support Specialists
Given 13F veterans' experience with using computers to determine a target's location, they may find that they make excellent computer support specialists. Their military training and cool head may help them to stand out from other candidates.
Support specialists may help customers who are having trouble with their computers or programs; this may be over the phone or online. Others provide support within companies, working with equipment and helping employees tackle their computer challenges. Education requirements vary. Entry level may not require a degree, but to provide support to a large office or in a large company a degree may be required. Often training in particular software is needed, depending upon the specific position.
Computer Network Architects
Fire support specialist veterans may have skills that could make them successful as computer network architects. Their experience setting up and operating communication and computer systems could be an advantage over other job seekers.
Computer network architects work with local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs) and the intranet. They design and build systems that may be used by businesses, residences, schools, hospitals, and other enterprises. Projects may range from designing systems for a single office to working with cloud-based systems that span the globe. This position requires a bachelor's degree.
Computer Systems Analysts
Much of the fire support specialist's work requires teamwork, understanding the entire organization chart, and applying that knowledge to ensure proper communications and execution of the mission. These skills can translate well into a career as a computer systems analyst.
Computer systems analysts work with both computer systems and business operations. They analyze organization charts to determine points where there are breakdowns or bottlenecks. They then plan and implement solutions to allow the company to operate more efficiently, using their data and computer systems to better potential. A bachelor's degree is required in this field.
Database Administrators
Fire support specialists may have an advantage in this field because their active duty work prepares them to deal with data and calculations in a logical, effective manner. MOS 13F is greatly involved with encoding/decoding secure information.
Database administrators focus on organizing and storing data. Generally there are specific software systems already in place or developed, which are used to store and analyze that data. Data consists of all types of records and information stored by companies, government, and other enterprises. It might be customer purchase records, safety records, medical records, or technical documentation. The database administrator is responsible for maintaining the system and its functionality, as well as monitoring security. A bachelor's degree is required.
