Navy officers often receive technical training in a variety of important fields, such as computers and networks, nuclear power systems, and engineering. However, their leadership skills set them above the pack. We'll explore several suitable careers.
Career Comparison
| Job Title | Median Wage (2021)* | Job Growth (2021-2031)* | Applicable Military Skills/Traits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nuclear Technicians | $99,340 | -17% | 'Navy Nukes' have prior experience and skills |
| Mechanical Engineers | $95,300 | 2% | Superior naval training and experience with complex systems |
| Electro-Mechanical Technicians | $60,360 | -4% | Naval training and experience with automation |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $80,600 | 3% | Leadership and experience managing secure networks |
| Chief Security Officers | $151,794 (2023)** | -7% (for all chief executives) | Leadership and security training in volatile environments |
| Chief Information Officers | $172,047 (2023)** | -7% (for all chief executives | Proven ability to plan, lead and implement information strategies at the highest levels |
Sources: *U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics, **PayScale
Careers for Former Navy Officers
Veteran Navy officers will find many positions in the civilian world in which their skills are highly applicable, especially in the tech and engineering sectors. The proven leadership ability of Navy officers is also highly valued. Below are six career choices for veteran Navy officers.
Nuclear Technicians
Those who are 'Navy Nukes' may find positions in the nuclear power industry and nuclear research. Those positions are often very similar to officers' active-duty jobs. Applying for an almost identical position in which one excelled gives veterans an edge over the competition.
Nuclear technicians work within the nuclear power industry or on nuclear research or development. They work with engineers and physicists, building, maintaining and operating the specialized equipment. They also monitor levels of radiation. This position requires an associate's degree.
Mechanical Engineers
Navy officers gain first-hand experience designing, maintaining and managing extremely complex mechanical systems that are found on ships and aircraft. This experience combined with their leadership capabilities may make veteran Navy officers among the top picks for this position.
Mechanical engineers design and build machinery, as well as the tools that are required to build those machines. They also work with thermodynamics and thermal sensors. Mechanical engineers require a bachelor's degree.
Electro-Mechanical Technicians
Navy officers with experience in electronics, including switches and circuits, may find this career a good choice. Navy veterans' hands-on training and real-world experience may be regarded as a huge plus in the job market.
Electro-mechanical technicians combine both mechanical engineering and electronic circuitry to create a variety of complex systems. They are particularly involved in unmanned vehicle development as well as automation and robotics. This position requires an associate's degree.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Given the newly emphasized importance placed on networks and computer systems, particularly for security, Navy veterans may find themselves in high demand in this career. Veterans' ability to tackle complex systems while maintaining security is valuable.
Network and computer systems administrators manage the day-to-day operations of the systems found within a business or organization. They perform maintenance, monitor for threats, recommend upgrades and manage and train personnel. This position requires a bachelor's degree.
Chief Security Officers
Navy officer veterans with leadership drive may find chief security officer a good career choice. The Navy offers a unique blend of experience in which personal security threats and risks must be assessed, as well as security of networks and systems. This blend makes Navy officers stand out.
Chief security officers are responsible for planning and maintaining the security of a business or enterprise. This may involve computers and networks and require experience in information systems. The position also requires managing physical risks of security and personnel. It may involve use and deployment of surveillance tools as well as human assets. The position requires a bachelor's degree and experience.
Chief Information Officers
This is a good fit for Navy officers who managed the computer and network teams while in the military. The leadership training and hands-on management experience gained in uniform may give veterans an advantage over the competition.
This position is responsible for handling all aspects of the information within a business or enterprise. In this day and age, that means planning and implementing computer and network systems to manage the storage of data and information in way that is effective and seamless for the company. This position requires a bachelor's degree.
