In the Army, the military occupational specialty (MOS) code 25P identifies microwave systems operator-maintainers. These soldiers install, maintain, and operate microwave communications systems. Their skill sets have many civilian applications. Discover career opportunities for 25P veterans.
Career Comparison
| Job Title | Median Wage (2021)* | Job Growth (2021-2031)* | Applicable Military Skills/Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Line Installers and Repairers | $74,530 | 6% | Experience with installation and repair in unfriendly environments |
| Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers | $61,760 | -1% | Experience installing and repairing switches and equipment |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineers | $101,780 | 3% | Experience with all aspects of microwave telecommunications |
| Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians | $63,640 | 0% | Hands-on experience testing and repairing equipment |
| Computer Network Architects | $120,520 | 4% | Understanding and management of communications systems |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Civilian Careers for 25P Veterans
The work of installing, maintaining and operating microwave telecommunications systems is complex and challenging. The following careers require the technical skills and can-do training of Army 25P veterans. These skills and traits may give veterans an advantage in the careers highlighted here.
Line Installers and Repairers
Microwave systems operator-maintainers have experience installing and repairing microwave telecommunications systems, often in difficult circumstances. Line installers and repairers work with all types of lines and cables used in the telecommunications industry. This may include both fiber optic and cable installations and repairs. They are also known as linemen. They may work with electrical power systems as well. This career requires a high school diploma.
Electrical and Electronics Installers and Repairers
Performing installation and repairs of telecommunications systems, may make 25P vets qualified to pursue a career in electronic and electrical installation and repair. In this career, workers install and repair all types of electrical and electronics equipment. They may work in a number of different industries, including telecommunications, transportation, security, and with utilities. For this career, some college is generally required. Certification on particular types of equipment and systems is also important, some of which may be possible to acquire during active duty. There are also certifications available from the Electronics Technicians Association International and the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians.
Electrical and Electronics Engineers
Veteran microwave systems operator-maintainers may find that their experience installing and managing microwave systems has prepared them for a career as an electrical and electronics engineer. Electrical and electronics engineers design and build devices and systems. Electrical engineers are more likely to build electrical devices, like navigation systems, motors, power generation systems, and communications systems. Electronics engineers usually work on projects like broadcast equipment, GPS equipment, music players, and other devices. A bachelor's degree is required in this field.
Electrical and Electronics Engineering Technicians
25P veterans may find that their experience testing, diagnosing, and repairing telecommunications equipment has prepared them to succeed in this career. The role of electrical and electronics engineering technicians is to assist and support engineers and researchers in their projects. Technicians may test and analyze systems, providing diagnostics and reports. Technicians use a variety of diagnostic equipment to test and evaluate equipment and devices. This career requires an associate's degree.
Computer Network Architects
Experience with complete communications systems could set 25P veterans apart from other jobs seekers in this highly technical career. Computer network architects design and build data communication networks. They work with a variety of systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and the intranet. They may work in large or small organizations. A small company may be located in a single building and require a fairly standard communications system. On the other hand, there are also positions in which the network architect might work with a cloud-based system that operates all around the world. A bachelor's degree is required for this career.
