One of the most daunting tasks for veterans upon returning to civilian life after service is finding a job. Learning how to job hunt or starting the process can be challenging after extended deployment. In addition to becoming familiar with the interview process, veterans have to figure out what career path they want to go down. Pursuing a job that suits the skills and experience gained while serving is important, as this will make retired servicemembers look more desirable to employers and ensure that servicemembers end up liking their jobs.
Which careers tend to interest veterans most and allow them to apply their skill sets? Here are five that have become popular choices for retired servicemembers after returning to life after service.
1. IT specialist
According to G.I. Jobs, one of the most sought-after careers for veterans is the role of an IT specialist. An IT specialist ensures that a company's computer systems are running smoothly and remain secure. They also look for ways to expand networks as the company and technology advances. Most of these careers offer the steady income and job security that veterans are looking for.
Some soldiers, depending on their specific branch, work with computers and technology while serving. Although many IT positions on the job market require a bachelor's or associate degree, many servicemembers use this as motivation to enroll in school if they do not have the education after returning from deployment.
2. Emergency medical technician
Active duty men and women frequently gain experience as an emergency medical technician while serving. The role of an EMT requires teamwork and the ability to react efficiently in high-stress situations, which most retired servicemembers have dealt with on a daily basis. Business Insider also noted that because so many states are seeking retired military members for these roles, more than half of the 50 states offer a Military Skills Waiver test for certification. This can speed up the application process, which is important to many vets who feel the pressure to start providing for their families after retirement.
3. Operations manager
An operations manager's primary responsibilities are running the day-to-day operations of the company. Depending on which industry the role is in, the specific duties may change. However, many veterans are attracted to it because it allows them to oversee a team and work closely with colleagues – two skills commonly acquired during deployment. G.I. Jobs also explained that as of March 2015, there were more than 244,000 opportunities available on the market.
4. Training and development manager
According to Forbes magazine, many companies actively recruit veterans for roles that involve working with and training new employees, as retired servicemembers tend to have impressive leadership skills that fit such a role perfectly.
Training and development managers are often responsible for working with new staff members and developing strategies to advance the company. For example, they may be in charge of wellness and team-building programs, which many veterans find enticing. While some companies may look for a bachelor's or associate degree, military service experience may translate to multiple years of experience.
5. Business administrator
Military leadership experience and a formal education are a combination that makes a strong candidate for the position of a business administrator. Most employees in these roles are management trainees and junior executives. Companies look for motivated leaders and applicants with strong organizational skills. Someone who is able to manage deadlines and has good time-management skills will also be appealing to recruiters. As daily routines in the military are often dictated by strict schedules, employers usually know that this is something that veterans have mastered.