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That is Coast Guard Rating IT. Civilian jobs, federal paths, and how the work reads on a resume.
What is in this guide
What the translation looks like
How it reads in service
Stood CGCYBER watch monitoring DHS network traffic for anomalies and potential intrusions across 200+ endpoints
How a hiring manager reads it
Monitored enterprise network of 200+ endpoints for security threats as SOC analyst. Detected anomalies, escalated incidents, and maintained continuous security posture for a federal agency network.
Roles this background maps to
Median pay, BLS OEWS May 2024
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Coast Guard Information Systems Technicians (ITs) keep every network, radio, and computer system in the Coast Guard running. ITs install, configure, and maintain the communication and IT systems that support search and rescue, law enforcement, and homeland security missions. From small boat stations to major cutters to CGCYBER operations, ITs are the backbone of Coast Guard communications.
The IT rating covers a wide range of skills. ITs work on satellite communications, LAN/WAN networks, cybersecurity monitoring, radio frequency systems, and help desk support. Many ITs serve at Communication Stations (COMMSTAs) managing message traffic and encrypted communications. Others work directly with CGCYBER on defensive cyber operations protecting DHS networks. Cutter ITs handle everything from NMCI/CANES networks to HF/UHF/VHF radio systems in harsh maritime environments.
What makes Coast Guard ITs stand out in the civilian job market is the combination of hands-on IT skills with real cybersecurity experience and a security clearance. The Coast Guard falls under the Department of Homeland Security, which means CG ITs work with DHS networks and security frameworks that translate directly to federal cybersecurity jobs. Add in the clearance and you have a very strong starting position for civilian IT and cybersecurity careers.
CG ITs are some of the easiest cleared IT hires the federal government can make — the GS-2210 IT Management series at DHS, DISA, and DoD components actively recruits Coast Guard IT. From the federal hiring side, the cleared maritime network experience plus tactical comms depth is exactly what federal IT offices need. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
The number that decides most of this: how does civilian pay compare to what the paycheck looks like now?
Coast Guard mid-career
$58K to $82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp: base plus BAH, BAS and the tax advantage.
Civilian Information Systems Technician
$61K to $130K
BLS median across the direct-match civilian roles on this page.
Federal, GS-9 to GS-13
$58K to $120K
2 matching GS series, plus locality pay and step increases.
About 41% higher on average
Civilian roles for Information Systems Technicians pay about $28K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate and moves with location and dependents. Civilian is the BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. The real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step and overtime.
Coast Guard ITs are well positioned for civilian IT careers. The private sector needs network administrators, cybersecurity analysts, systems administrators, and IT support professionals. CG ITs bring real-world experience managing networks under pressure, often with fewer resources than other branches get. That resourcefulness is valuable to employers.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), median annual wages for IT roles that match CG IT experience include: Network and Systems Administrators at $96,800, Information Security Analysts at $124,910, Computer Network Support Specialists at $67,880, and Computer Systems Analysts at $104,580. IT Support Specialists earn a median of $60,810, while Computer Network Architects earn $129,840.
The cybersecurity field is growing fast. BLS projects Information Security Analyst jobs to grow 33% through 2033. That is much faster than average. CG ITs with CGCYBER or COMMSTA experience have direct, hands-on cybersecurity skills that many civilian candidates lack. Your clearance is a bonus that saves employers thousands of dollars and months of waiting.
Defense contractors and federal IT service companies actively recruit veterans with clearances. Companies like Booz Allen Hamilton, Leidos, SAIC, and ManTech have veteran hiring programs. But CG ITs also do well at commercial tech companies, managed service providers, and healthcare IT organizations where network reliability matters.
| Civilian job title | Industry | BLS median salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Network and Computer Systems AdministratorO*NET 15-1244.00 | Information Technology | $96,800 | About as fast as average (2%) | strong |
| Information Security AnalystO*NET 15-1212.00 | Cybersecurity | $124,910 | Much faster than average (33%) | strong |
| Computer Network Support SpecialistO*NET 15-1231.00 | Information Technology | $67,880 | About as fast as average (2%) | strong |
| Computer Systems AnalystO*NET 15-1211.00 | Information Technology / Consulting | $104,580 | Faster than average (11%) | strong |
| Computer User Support SpecialistO*NET 15-1232.00 | Information Technology | $60,810 | About as fast as average (5%) | strong |
| Computer Network ArchitectO*NET 15-1241.00 | Information Technology / Telecommunications | $129,840 | About as fast as average (4%) | moderate |
| IT Project ManagerO*NET 13-1082.00 | Information Technology / Multiple | $100,750 | Faster than average (6%) | moderate |
| Database AdministratorO*NET 15-1242.00 | Information Technology | $101,510 | About as fast as average (8%) | moderate |
Major defense IT contractor. Hires veterans for cybersecurity, network engineering, and IT consulting roles. DHS and DoD contracts.
Large defense IT company with extensive DHS contracts. Network operations, cybersecurity, and systems engineering roles.
IT services and solutions for government agencies. Strong DHS presence. Network admin, cyber defense, and cloud engineering positions.
Cybersecurity and IT services for federal agencies. DHS SOC operations and network defense contracts.
Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. Federal cybersecurity roles protecting government networks. Natural fit for CG ITs.
Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA) is a SkillBridge program. Cloud engineering, cybersecurity, and server admin training with job placement.
Cloud skills training program for veterans. AWS certifications plus job placement. Cloud is the fastest growing IT sector.
Leading cybersecurity company. Network security, firewall management, and threat detection roles match CGCYBER experience.
Endpoint security and threat intelligence. SOC analyst and incident response roles for ITs with cyber defense experience.
Big Four consulting firm with large cyber practice. Federal advisory, risk management, and IT audit roles.
The Coast Guard hires civilian IT specialists. You already know the systems and the mission. GS-2210 positions at CG headquarters and districts.
Defense contractor with cybersecurity and network engineering contracts for DHS, DoD, and intelligence agencies.
IT services for federal government. DHS and Coast Guard network operations and cybersecurity support contracts.
Federal IT consulting and managed services. Cloud migration, cybersecurity, and IT modernization projects for government clients.
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Information security analyst resume example (military to civilian): the whole page, the lines that changed, and the words the posts use. Built from IT work.
“I used the resume your site built for me to apply for my first-ever position on USAJOBS, and I was selected for a GS-13 position writing policy for the same type of work I did while on active duty. First pitch- Home Run!”
Christopher · Chief Petty Officer (E-7) · Coast Guard · Federal Policy
Federal IT careers are a natural fit for Coast Guard ITs. The federal government is one of the largest employers of IT and cybersecurity professionals in the country. Your DHS experience gives you an edge because you already understand federal network security requirements, FISMA compliance, and how government IT operations work.
Key GS series for CG ITs include: GS-2210 (Information Technology Management) which is the broadest IT series covering network admin, cybersecurity, systems admin, and IT project management. GS-0332 (Computer Operations) covers data center and operations center roles. GS-0391 (Telecommunications) fits ITs with COMMSTA or radio system experience. GS-0855 (Electronics Engineering) works for ITs who focused on hardware and radio systems. GS-1550 (Computer Science) and GS-1560 (Data Science) are options for ITs with programming or data analysis experience.
Other strong GS series matches: GS-0301 (Miscellaneous Admin) for IT management roles. GS-0343 (Management Analyst) for ITs moving into IT governance. GS-2010 (Inventory Management) for IT asset management. GS-1801 (General Inspection) for cybersecurity compliance and audit roles. GS-0080 (Security Specialist) for ITs pivoting to information security policy. GS-0854 (Computer Engineering) and GS-1529 (Mathematical Statistician) for specialized technical paths. GS-0340 (Program Management) for senior ITs moving into IT program management. GS-0311 (Classification Management) for ITs with classified network experience.
CISA (Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency) is a top employer for CG ITs. You already worked under DHS, so you understand the mission. Other strong agencies include DHS headquarters, Coast Guard civilian IT positions, NSA, DoD CIO, VA, and any federal agency with a large IT footprint. Veterans preference gives you a real advantage. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build your federal resume here.
| Series | Federal job title | Typical grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-2210 | Information Technology Management | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 5 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0390 | Telecommunications Processing | GS-7, GS-9 | 4 of 5 | View details |
Federal raters match your record against the announcement's specialized experience statement. BMR writes the federal format for any GS series above, with the hours per week and supervisor detail a rater looks for.
Free to start. Federal and private sector formats included.
Not everyone stays in a related field. These paths run on the transferable half of the job: leadership, risk, logistics, planning.
CG ITs who led system migrations, tech refreshes, or network upgrades have real project management experience. You planned timelines, coordinated teams, managed risks, and delivered results. That is project management.
Transfers: Project planning, Team leadership, Stakeholder communication, Risk management, Budget tracking.
How to get there: PMP certification recommended. Your CG IT projects count toward the experience requirement. Many defense contractors and federal agencies hire IT PMs with military backgrounds.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Faster than average (6%)
CG ITs manage data systems, user access controls, and backup procedures. Database administration is a natural extension of these skills with additional training in SQL and database platforms.
Transfers: Data management, System monitoring, Backup and recovery, Access control, Performance tuning.
How to get there: Oracle or Microsoft SQL Server certification. Many bootcamps and GI Bill-approved programs cover database administration. Your system administration background gives you a head start.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · About as fast as average (8%)
Cloud engineering builds on CG IT networking and systems administration skills. AWS and Azure are the top platforms. Federal cloud (GovCloud, IL4/IL5) is a growing sector where your clearance adds value.
Transfers: Network architecture, System administration, Security configuration, Automation, Troubleshooting.
How to get there: AWS Solutions Architect Associate or Azure Administrator certification. Many SkillBridge programs offer cloud training. Microsoft MSSA and AWS re/Start are good starting points.
BLS OEWS May 2024 (Network/Systems Admin) · Faster than average
CG ITs who enjoy explaining technical concepts to non-technical people do well in technical sales. You understand IT products from the user side. Sales engineers earn strong base salaries plus commission.
Transfers: Technical knowledge, Customer communication, Problem solving, Product demonstrations, Relationship building.
How to get there: Many tech companies provide sales training. Your technical background plus military discipline makes you competitive. No certification required but product knowledge is essential.
BLS OEWS May 2024 (Sales Engineers) · About as fast as average (5%)
CG ITs with STIG/SCAP scanning, ATO maintenance, and COMSEC experience have direct compliance and audit skills. FISMA, NIST, and RMF frameworks translate to HIPAA, SOX, PCI-DSS, and other compliance frameworks.
Transfers: Compliance monitoring, Policy enforcement, Risk assessment, Documentation, Audit preparation.
How to get there: CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor) or CRISC certification. Your federal compliance experience is directly relevant. Many organizations need IT auditors with hands-on technical backgrounds.
BLS OEWS May 2024 (Management Analysts) · Faster than average (10%)
CG ITs who trained junior members and qualified watchstanders have real teaching experience. Technical training roles at companies, colleges, and certification bootcamps pay well and value your hands-on knowledge.
Transfers: Technical instruction, Curriculum development, Mentoring, Performance evaluation, Subject matter expertise.
How to get there: CompTIA CTT+ or teaching certification depending on the role. Many community colleges hire IT instructors with military experience in lieu of advanced degrees. Corporate training roles value practical experience.
BLS OEWS May 2024 (Computer Science Teachers) · About as fast as average
CG ITs provide communications support during search and rescue, disaster response, and homeland security missions. Emergency management roles value people who can keep communications running during a crisis.
Transfers: Incident response, Communication systems, Coordination, Planning, Crisis management.
How to get there: Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) from IAEM. Your experience supporting Coast Guard operations during emergencies translates directly. FEMA and state emergency management agencies hire veterans.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · Faster than average (6%)
The skills behind the specialty carry further than the specialty. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the paths above without making it sound like you have never done the work.
Free to start. Try as many angles as you want.
If you are applying to IT companies, cybersecurity firms, or defense contractors, they probably know what a COMMSTA is. They understand NMCI. You may not need heavy translation for those roles.
But if you are applying outside of direct IT work, or to a company with no military background, the hiring manager will not know what "CGCYBER watch stander" means. The translations below reframe your CG IT experience into language that works in non-military IT environments and non-IT industries. These are not just word swaps. They show how to quantify and present your experience for a different audience.
Before, in service
Stood CGCYBER watch monitoring DHS network traffic for anomalies and potential intrusions across 200+ endpoints
After, on the resume
Monitored enterprise network of 200+ endpoints for security threats as SOC analyst. Detected anomalies, escalated incidents, and maintained continuous security posture for a federal agency network.
Before, in service
Managed daily message traffic operations at COMMSTA Kodiak, processing 150+ encrypted messages per shift with zero errors
After, on the resume
Managed a 24/7 communications center processing 150+ encrypted transmissions per shift. Maintained zero-error rate across all classified and unclassified communications channels.
Before, in service
Maintained NMCI network for 350-person sector office including switches, routers, servers, and user workstations
After, on the resume
Administered enterprise network infrastructure supporting 350 users. Managed switches, routers, servers, and workstations. Maintained 99.5% uptime across all network services.
Before, in service
Served as sole IT on 270-foot cutter, maintaining all shipboard networks, satellite communications, and radio systems during 90-day patrols
After, on the resume
Managed all IT infrastructure for a mobile operations facility with 100+ personnel. Maintained satellite communications, networking equipment, and radio systems in remote environments with limited support. Achieved 98% system availability.
Before, in service
Supported TISCOM helpdesk handling 50+ daily trouble tickets for Coast Guard-wide IT issues including network, email, and application support
After, on the resume
Provided enterprise IT support for an organization of 40,000+ personnel. Resolved 50+ daily service requests covering network connectivity, email systems, and business applications. Maintained SLA compliance above 95%.
Before, in service
Served as COMSEC custodian managing $2M in cryptographic equipment and keying material with zero discrepancies across 4 semi-annual audits
After, on the resume
Managed $2M cryptographic asset inventory with full accountability. Administered encryption key lifecycle including distribution, rotation, and destruction. Passed 4 consecutive compliance audits with zero findings.
Before, in service
Led tech refresh of sector IT infrastructure, migrating 200 workstations from legacy NMCI to new CANES network over 6-week timeline
After, on the resume
Led enterprise IT infrastructure migration for 200-user office. Planned and executed transition from legacy network to new platform within 6-week timeline. Zero data loss and minimal user downtime during cutover.
Before, in service
Trained and qualified 8 junior ITs on CGCYBER watch procedures, network troubleshooting, and COMSEC handling within 6-month training cycle
After, on the resume
Developed and delivered technical training program for 8 team members covering cybersecurity monitoring, network troubleshooting, and security compliance procedures. All trainees achieved full qualification within 6 months.
Before, in service
Performed weekly STIG/SCAP compliance scans on 150+ systems, identified vulnerabilities, and coordinated remediation to maintain ATO
After, on the resume
Conducted weekly security compliance audits across 150+ systems using industry-standard scanning tools. Identified vulnerabilities, tracked remediation timelines, and maintained continuous compliance with federal security frameworks (NIST/FISMA).
Before, in service
Managed $500K annual IT budget for district office covering hardware procurement, software licensing, and maintenance contracts
After, on the resume
Managed $500K annual IT budget. Oversaw hardware procurement, software licensing negotiations, and vendor contract management. Delivered all projects within budget while maintaining service level requirements.
BMR turns your IT duties and accomplishments into civilian bullets aimed at the job you are applying for. No manual translation.
Free to start. Tailored to each posting.
Which ones you need depends on where you are headed.
RecommendedCost $150 exam feeTime 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligibleCloud is the fastest growing IT sector. This cert opens doors to cloud engineering and architecture roles. AWS dominates federal cloud.
RecommendedCost $165 exam feeTime 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligibleAzure is the second largest cloud provider and dominant in DoD. Good fit for CG ITs familiar with Microsoft environments.
RequiredCost $350 - $400 (military discount)Time 2-4 weeks study + examGI Bill eligibleIndustry standard for IT security. Meets DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II. Many CG ITs earn this on active duty through credentialing assistance.
RecommendedCost $350 - $400 (military discount)Time 2-4 weeks study + examGI Bill eligibleCybersecurity analyst certification. Good fit for CG ITs with CGCYBER or SOC monitoring experience. Meets DoD 8570 CSSP Analyst.
RecommendedCost $749 exam feeTime 3-6 months studyGI Bill eligibleGold standard for cybersecurity management. Requires 5 years experience (CG IT time counts). Opens doors to senior security roles paying $120K+.
RecommendedCost FreeTime 2-3 weeks study + examFree entry-level cybersecurity cert from ISC2. Good stepping stone if CISSP experience requirement is not yet met.
BeneficialCost $1,199 exam feeTime 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligiblePenetration testing and ethical hacking cert. Good for CG ITs targeting offensive security or red team roles. Meets DoD 8570 CSSP Auditor.
BeneficialCost $480 exam feeTime 2-4 weeks study + examGI Bill eligibleAdvanced cybersecurity cert. Meets DoD 8570 IAT Level III. Good step between Security+ and CISSP for senior technical roles.
RecommendedCost $350 - $400 (military discount)Time 2-4 weeks study + examGI Bill eligibleValidates networking fundamentals. Good complement to CG IT networking experience. Meets DoD 8570 requirements.
RecommendedCost $330 exam feeTime 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligibleIndustry standard for networking. Validates routing, switching, and network fundamentals. Strong complement to CG IT network experience.
RecommendedCost $555 (PMI member)Time 2-3 months studyGI Bill eligibleIndustry standard for project management. CG IT system migration and upgrade projects count toward experience requirement.
BeneficialCost $350 - $500Time 1-2 weeks study + examGI Bill eligibleIT service management framework used by many organizations. Complements CG IT help desk and service delivery experience.
Placement decides whether a screener ever sees it. BMR knows where each one ranks, what to call it, and how to frame it.
Free to start. Built around your real certs and clearance.
SkillBridge Programs: Many IT and cybersecurity companies participate in DOD SkillBridge. Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Palo Alto Networks, and Booz Allen Hamilton have all offered SkillBridge positions for IT roles. Check the SkillBridge database and start the process 6-12 months before your separation date. Your command career counselor can help with approvals.
CompTIA Certifications: CompTIA certifications are the industry standard for IT professionals. Security+ is often required for DoD IT work (DoD 8570/8140 compliance). Network+ and CySA+ are strong additions. CompTIA offers military discounts on exam vouchers. Many of these are covered by GI Bill or credentialing assistance while still on active duty.
ISC2 Certifications: The CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) is the gold standard for cybersecurity management roles. It requires 5 years of experience, but your CG IT time counts. ISC2 also offers the CC (Certified in Cybersecurity) for free, which is a great starting credential.
ClearanceJobs: Your security clearance has real market value. ClearanceJobs.com lists IT and cybersecurity positions that require active clearances. Clearances stay active for up to 24 months after separation. Do not let yours lapse during transition.
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is valuable for ITs moving into management. Your experience managing IT projects, system migrations, and network upgrades counts toward the experience requirement. Cost is about $555 for PMI members.
Federal Employment: Create your USAJobs profile now. Do not wait until you separate. Use the Veterans filter. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. You get paired with someone in your target industry. ACP is legitimate and free for veterans.
Education Benefits: Your GI Bill covers degree programs and many certification exam fees. Cloud certifications (AWS, Azure, GCP) are increasingly valuable and many prep courses are VA-approved. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval before enrolling.
Transition Programs: TAP/SFL-TAP provides transition assistance. Start early. The Coast Guard transition program is similar to other branches but falls under DHS, so some resources differ.
Navy IT (Information Systems Technician) | Army 25B IT Specialist | Army 17C Cyber Operations | Air Force 3D0X2 Cyber Systems | Air Force 1B4X1 Cyber Warfare | Navy CTN Cryptologic Technician | Coast Guard ET Electronics Technician | All Military Career Transitions
Military to Tech: Break Into IT Without a Degree | Cybersecurity Jobs Veterans Can Land Without a Degree | Security Clearance Jobs: Salary by Clearance Level | Security Clearance After Separation | SkillBridge Guide: Land a Job Before You Separate | Top Companies Hiring Veterans 2026 | Build Your Resume Free | Military Resume Builder
Most people do this backwards: wait for terminal leave, then panic. This is the sequence that works. Already out? Same plan, day one is today.
Days 0 to 30
Days 30 to 60
Days 60 to 90
CG ITs qualify for network administrator, systems administrator, cybersecurity analyst, IT support specialist, computer systems analyst, and network architect roles. BLS median salaries range from $60,810 for IT support to $129,840 for network architects (May 2024). Your clearance and DHS experience make you competitive for defense contractor and federal IT positions too.
Civilian IT salaries vary by specialty. BLS May 2024 medians: IT Support Specialists earn $60,810. Network and Systems Admins earn $96,800. Computer Systems Analysts earn $104,580. Information Security Analysts earn $124,910. Computer Network Architects earn $129,840. With a clearance, expect 10-20% above these medians at defense contractors.
Yes. An active Secret clearance saves employers $5,000 to $15,000 and months of processing time. Many defense contractor and federal IT jobs require a clearance. TS/SCI clearances are even more valuable. Sites like ClearanceJobs.com list positions that need active clearances. Your clearance stays active for up to 24 months after separation if not renewed. Start your job search before it lapses.
Start with CompTIA Security+ if you do not have it. It meets DoD 8570/8140 requirements and is widely recognized. Then add Network+ or CySA+ based on your target role. For cybersecurity management, work toward the CISSP. Cloud certifications (AWS Solutions Architect, Azure Administrator) are increasingly valuable. Use credentialing assistance while still on active duty to cover exam costs.
Not always. Many IT and cybersecurity roles accept military experience plus certifications in place of a degree. Your CG IT experience, combined with CompTIA or ISC2 certifications and a clearance, makes you competitive for many positions. Some senior roles and certain federal positions may require a degree. The GI Bill can cover a degree program if you decide to pursue one.
Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Disabled veterans get 10 points. You need your DD-214 (Member 4 copy) and SF-15 form. Many federal IT positions at DHS, DoD, and VA use direct hire authority, which can speed up the process. Apply to positions at or below GS-11 where preference has the most impact. Federal resumes are 2 pages max.
Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Palo Alto Networks, and Booz Allen Hamilton have offered SkillBridge positions for IT and cybersecurity roles. Check the SkillBridge database at skillbridge.osd.mil for current openings. You can start SkillBridge during your last 180 days of service. Talk to your command career counselor 6-12 months before your separation date to start the approval process.
Focus on the skills, not the acronyms. CGCYBER watch standing translates to security operations center (SOC) monitoring. Network defense translates to threat detection and incident response. Compliance work translates to security framework implementation (NIST, FISMA). Quantify everything. How many endpoints did you monitor? How many incidents did you respond to? What was your detection rate? Use numbers to tell the story.
Yes. Start 12 months before your separation date. Build your resume and LinkedIn profile 6 months out. Apply to federal positions 6 months out because federal hiring is slow. At 180 days out, you may be eligible for SkillBridge. Attend industry events and virtual career fairs for veterans. Use terminal leave as your transition runway.
That depends on your interests. IT and cybersecurity pay well and are growing fast. But CG ITs also move successfully into project management (BLS median $100,750), database administration ($101,510), and IT sales. Your transferable skills like problem solving, working under pressure, and managing complex systems apply in many fields. Check the Career Change Paths section on this page for specific options with salary data.
Salary data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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