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That is Coast Guard Rating ET. 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
Maintained all C5ISR systems aboard WMSL-750 including SPS-73 radar, HF/VHF/UHF communications, DGPS, AIS, and satellite communications supporting a crew of 170
How a hiring manager reads it
Managed enterprise communications and sensor infrastructure for a 170-person organization, maintaining network uptime across 12 integrated systems including radar, satellite links, voice/data networks, and GPS navigation with 99.2% system availability
Roles this background maps to
Median pay, BLS OEWS May 2024
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Coast Guard Electronics Technicians (ET) install, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair the electronic systems that keep the Coast Guard operational — C5ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Cyber, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance), radar, navigation systems, radio communications, and satellite equipment. ETs work on everything from HF/VHF/UHF radio systems to SPS-73 surface search radar to GPS and AIS navigation suites aboard cutters, at shore-based communication stations, and at LORAN/DGPS transmitting facilities.
The ET rating requires a strong foundation in electronics theory, digital and analog circuits, microwave systems, fiber optics, and computer networking. ETs attend 'A' School at Training Center Petaluma, CA, followed by specialized equipment courses (C-schools) for specific systems. Many ETs earn qualifications in TEMPEST (emissions security), cybersecurity, and classified communications systems. Some ETs specialize in aids to navigation (ATON) electronics, maintaining the electronic systems on buoys, lighthouses, and range markers across the nation's waterways.
What makes CG ETs particularly marketable is the breadth of their experience. Unlike military ETs who may specialize in a single system for an entire tour, Coast Guard ETs on small cutters maintain everything — radar, communications, navigation, and IT networks — because there is no one else to call. That independent troubleshooting capability across multiple systems is exactly what employers in telecommunications, defense contracting, and critical infrastructure value.
CG ETs sit at one of the more underrated tech crossover points in the Coast Guard — the depth of electronics troubleshooting plus shipboard systems experience translates to federal electronics technician, FAA technical roles, and DoD contractor positions consistently. From the federal hiring side, the cleared-electronics combination is in steady demand. — 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 Electronics Technician
$56K to $125K
BLS median across the direct-match civilian roles on this page.
Federal, GS-9 to GS-13
$58K to $120K
10 matching GS series, plus locality pay and step increases.
About 9% higher on average
Civilian roles for Electronics Technicians pay about $6K 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.
The private sector demand for electronics technicians remains strong, driven by expanding telecommunications infrastructure, cybersecurity concerns, and the growing complexity of electronic systems across industries. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), electrical and electronics repairers (commercial and industrial equipment) earn a median annual wage of $66,820 (O*NET 49-2094.00), while telecommunications equipment installers and repairers earn a median of $61,070 (O*NET 49-2022.00).
For ETs who pivot toward network administration or cybersecurity, the salary trajectory improves significantly. BLS reports network and computer systems administrators at a median of $96,800 (O*NET 15-1244.00) and information security analysts at a median of $124,910 (O*NET 15-1212.00). The cybersecurity path is particularly strong for ETs with TEMPEST, COMSEC, or classified network experience — and the field is growing at 33% according to BLS, far faster than average.
Defense contractors represent the most straightforward path for many CG ETs. Companies like L3Harris, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman maintain the exact same systems ETs worked on in the Coast Guard, and an active security clearance is a hiring multiplier. ETs with C5ISR or radar maintenance experience are in particular demand.
| Civilian job title | Industry | BLS median salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electrical/Electronics Repairer (Commercial/Industrial)O*NET 49-2094.00 | Manufacturing / Utilities / Defense | $66,820 | About as fast as average (2%) | strong |
| Telecommunications Equipment Installer/RepairerO*NET 49-2022.00 | Telecommunications | $61,070 | Little or no change (-1%) | strong |
| Network and Computer Systems AdministratorO*NET 15-1244.00 | IT / Multiple Industries | $96,800 | About as fast as average (3%) | strong |
| Information Security AnalystO*NET 15-1212.00 | IT / Defense / Government | $124,910 | Much faster than average (33%) | strong |
| ElectricianO*NET 47-2111.00 | Construction / Maintenance | $62,350 | About as fast as average (6%) | moderate |
| Avionics TechnicianO*NET 49-2091.00 | Aviation / Aerospace | $74,210 | Much faster than average (11%) | moderate |
| Field Service EngineerO*NET 49-2094.00 | Defense / Technology | $66,820 | About as fast as average | strong |
| Broadcast and Sound Engineering TechnicianO*NET 27-4011.00 | Media / Broadcasting | $55,650 | About as fast as average (2%) | moderate |
Major defense contractor producing communications, radar, and electronic warfare systems used by the Coast Guard. Direct hiring path for ETs who maintained Harris radio systems.
Produces radar, sensors, and C4ISR systems. ETs with radar maintenance experience (SPS-73, SPS-67) are strong candidates for field service and engineering support roles.
Major defense electronics and cybersecurity contractor. Hires ETs for electronic systems maintenance, cybersecurity, and communications roles. Active SkillBridge participant.
Provides IT and cybersecurity services to government agencies. Strong hiring for cleared technicians with network and COMSEC experience. One of the largest defense IT employers.
Defense and IT services contractor supporting DHS, DOD, and intelligence community. Hires ETs for field service, network engineering, and cybersecurity analyst positions.
Builds and maintains public safety radio communications systems. ETs with land mobile radio experience are strong candidates for field service technician roles.
Major telecommunications carrier with active military hiring programs. Hires network technicians, field engineers, and cybersecurity professionals. SkillBridge participant.
Major telecom carrier with veteran-focused hiring. Network operations, fiber installation, and wireless infrastructure roles. Participates in SkillBridge.
FAA maintains air traffic control radar, navigation aids, and communications systems nationwide. GS-2101 and GS-0856 positions. Radar maintenance experience from CG translates directly.
DHS component focused on cybersecurity and critical infrastructure protection. Hires for GS-2210 (IT Management) and GS-0855 (Electronics Engineering). Direct Hire Authority for veterans.
Defense and intelligence consulting firm with major cybersecurity practice. Hires cleared technical professionals for government client support. Values CG ET background.
Defense IT and engineering services company. Supports Coast Guard, DHS, and DOD contracts. Hires ETs for field maintenance, network operations, and systems engineering roles.
BMR rewrites your ET experience for any of the roles above, in the language the people reading actually scan for.
Free to start. 2 tailored resumes included.
Upload it and get a number in about a minute, plus the ET lines a civilian hiring manager will not follow and what to write instead. No account.
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“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 agencies maintain massive electronic and communications infrastructure, and they need technicians who can keep it running. The GS-0856 (Electronics Technician) series is the most direct path — USCG shore installations, FAA, DHS, and DOD all hire GS-0856s. ETs with radar experience should look at FAA positions maintaining air traffic control radar and navigation aids, where the systems overlap significantly with Coast Guard equipment.
For ETs targeting IT careers, the GS-2210 (Information Technology Management) series is the broadest federal IT classification. This covers everything from help desk to network engineering to cybersecurity. ETs with network experience or cybersecurity qualifications (Security+ or higher) can enter at GS-9 or GS-11. DHS, NSA, and the intelligence community hire extensively into 2210 positions and value the clearance ETs already hold.
The GS-0855 (Electronics Engineering) series is available for ETs who pursue an engineering degree — some agencies accept extensive technical experience with appropriate education. GS-0391/0392 (Telecommunications) positions at agencies operating their own communications infrastructure (DOD, DHS, FAA, FEMA) are also strong matches. For the analytically minded ET, GS-1550 (Computer Science) and GS-1560 (Data Science) are growth fields where technical troubleshooting skills translate to data analysis and software roles.
| Series | Federal job title | Typical grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-0856 | Electronics Technician | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 5 of 5 | View details |
| GS-2210 | Information Technology Management | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 5 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0855 | Electronics Engineering | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0391 | Telecommunications | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 4 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 3 of 5 | View details |
| GS-1550 | Computer Science | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 3 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0850 | Electrical Engineering | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | 3 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0340 | Program Management | GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | 3 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0392 | General Telecommunications | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 3 of 5 | View details |
| GS-0802 | Engineering Technician | GS-7, GS-9, GS-11 | 3 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.
MRI machines run on RF coils and magnetic fields, the exact RF and signal theory a Coast Guard ET lives in. Operating one rewards comfort with electromagnetic systems and the discipline to run a complex machine to spec.
Transfers: RF and electromagnetic signal knowledge, Precision equipment operation, Reading waveforms and image artifacts, Methodical safety screening.
How to get there: Complete a radiologic technology associate degree, then an MRI certificate and ARRT credential. The RF and electronics background shortens the technical theory portion.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 6% (Faster than average)
Sonography is signal transmission and echo interpretation, conceptually the same as the sonar and radar return reading ETs already do. The instinct for reading a clean signal from noise transfers straight across.
Transfers: Transducer and signal-path understanding, Interpreting waveforms and returns, Precise equipment handling, Quality control on captured data.
How to get there: Earn an accredited sonography associate degree or a certificate if you already hold a health credential, then pass the ARDMS exam.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 11% (Much faster than average)
EKG and cath-lab work is electronic signal capture and interpretation, the same waveform-reading discipline ETs apply to comms and radar gear. The leap is the clinical context, not the underlying electronics.
Transfers: Biomedical signal acquisition, Reading and interpreting waveforms, Operating sensitive diagnostic electronics, Troubleshooting noisy signal sources.
How to get there: Complete a cardiovascular technology associate degree or a certificate program, then earn credentials through CCI or ARDMS.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 6% (Faster than average)
ETs already work radar and radio systems and stay sharp under pressure. Controllers read the same kind of scope and run the same disciplined comms, only directing aircraft instead of maintaining the gear.
Transfers: Radar scope and RF comms fluency, Precision communication under pressure, Sustained situational awareness, Calm high-consequence decisions.
How to get there: Apply through the FAA Academy or a CTI-partner college and complete FAA training. Veterans get preference and radar or comms experience is directly relevant.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 3% (As fast as average)
Seismic and geophysical surveys are sensor arrays and signal processing, the same instrumentation work ETs do. The electronics behind the data acquisition is familiar territory in a completely different industry.
Transfers: Sensor and instrumentation operation, Signal and data interpretation, Calibrating and maintaining field electronics, Methodical measurement under field conditions.
How to get there: Enter with a geoscience associate degree or relevant technical training. Some firms hire strong electronics technicians and train the geoscience side on the job.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 5% (Faster than average)
ETs understand RF, comms, and test equipment at a level most salespeople cannot fake. That credibility sells radios, radar, test gear, and secure-comms systems to technical buyers who respect someone who actually knows the hardware.
Transfers: Deep RF and electronics knowledge, Explaining complex systems plainly, Diagnosing customer technical problems, Credibility with engineering buyers.
How to get there: Move from a hands-on electronics role into technical sales for a manufacturer. Product training plus existing systems knowledge carries the transition; no new degree required.
BLS OEWS May 2024 · 6% (Faster than average)
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 heading to a defense contractor to maintain the same C5ISR systems you worked on in the Coast Guard, your terminology translates directly. They know what SPS-73 radar is. They know what COMSEC means.
But if you are targeting careers outside of defense and telecommunications — IT management, cybersecurity, project management, or any corporate role — the hiring manager does not know what "C5ISR" means or why troubleshooting a DGPS transmitter makes you qualified to manage their network infrastructure. Below are translations that reframe your ET experience into language that resonates in non-defense, non-telecom industries.
Before, in service
Maintained all C5ISR systems aboard WMSL-750 including SPS-73 radar, HF/VHF/UHF communications, DGPS, AIS, and satellite communications supporting a crew of 170
After, on the resume
Managed enterprise communications and sensor infrastructure for a 170-person organization, maintaining network uptime across 12 integrated systems including radar, satellite links, voice/data networks, and GPS navigation with 99.2% system availability
Before, in service
Served as COMSEC custodian for three crypto accounts, managing 150+ controlled items including KYK-13, KG-175, and CCI equipment per EKMS procedures
After, on the resume
Served as information security compliance officer managing three classified data accounts with 150+ controlled items, conducting quarterly audits, maintaining chain-of-custody documentation, and achieving zero discrepancies across four external inspections
Before, in service
Troubleshot SPS-73 radar system failures to component level using oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and TDRs, reducing system downtime from 72 hours to 8 hours on three critical failures
After, on the resume
Performed systematic root cause analysis on critical production systems, using advanced diagnostic equipment to isolate failures to component level, reducing mean-time-to-repair by 89% and restoring operations within hours instead of days
Before, in service
Managed ESD Miami electronics shop: 8 technicians, $2.4M test equipment inventory, maintenance support for 12 cutters and 4 shore facilities across District 7
After, on the resume
Directed a regional technical services department of 8 technicians, managing $2.4M in diagnostic equipment, providing maintenance support across 16 client locations, and maintaining service level agreements for critical infrastructure
Before, in service
Executed PMS requirements on 40+ electronic systems monthly, maintaining MRIs above 95%, documenting all maintenance in SAMS/SAP, and scheduling depot-level repairs
After, on the resume
Managed preventive maintenance program across 40+ enterprise systems, maintaining 95%+ service level compliance, documenting all activities in asset management system, and coordinating third-party vendor repairs when required
Before, in service
Led installation of new GMDSS communications suite on WMEC-270: coordinated with contractors, ran cable, configured frequencies, conducted acceptance testing, and trained operators
After, on the resume
Led technology deployment project installing new enterprise communications system: coordinated with vendors, managed infrastructure preparation, configured system parameters, conducted acceptance testing, and delivered end-user training to 30+ personnel
Before, in service
Maintained TEMPEST compliance for classified spaces aboard cutter, conducting annual inspections, documenting RED/BLACK separation, and coordinating remediation for identified vulnerabilities
After, on the resume
Ensured electromagnetic emissions security compliance for sensitive facilities, conducting annual vulnerability assessments, maintaining physical separation standards for classified and unclassified systems, and managing remediation projects for identified risks
Before, in service
Trained and qualified 5 junior ETs on radar maintenance, communications troubleshooting, and COMSEC procedures through PQS program, conducting oral boards and practical assessments
After, on the resume
Developed and delivered technical competency training for 5 new technicians across radar systems, communications infrastructure, and information security protocols, designing assessment criteria and conducting skills evaluations with 100% qualification rate
BMR turns your ET 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 $100 - $300 per examTime 1-3 months prepGI Bill eligibleCloud certifications are increasingly valued for IT careers. ETs with network infrastructure experience have a foundation. AWS offers free training resources and military discounts. Cloud roles offer strong remote work opportunities.
RecommendedCost $100 - $200 (testing fee)Time 1-2 months prepRequired for some broadcast and telecommunications positions. ETs with RF and transmitter experience have a strong foundation. Validates knowledge of radio operating procedures and electronic fundamentals.
RecommendedCost $350 - $400 (military discount available)Time 1-3 months prepGI Bill eligibleBaseline cybersecurity certification. Many ETs can pass with existing COMSEC and network security knowledge. Required for DOD 8570 IAT Level II compliance. CompTIA offers military discounts on vouchers.
RecommendedCost $749 exam feeTime 3-6 months prepGI Bill eligibleGold standard for senior cybersecurity roles. Requires 5 years of experience — military service counts. ISC2 offers free associate membership for those building experience hours. Highest ROI cert for ETs targeting cybersecurity management.
RequiredCost $50 - $100Time 1 daySome ETs earned this during service. Required for many field service and safety positions. Keep current through separation.
RecommendedCost $350 - $400 (military discount available)Time 1-3 months prepGI Bill eligibleValidates networking fundamentals. Good stepping stone for ETs transitioning from hardware to IT networking roles. Many ETs have the knowledge already from maintaining shipboard networks.
RecommendedCost $330 exam feeTime 3-6 months prepGI Bill eligibleIndustry standard for network engineering. Validates routing, switching, and network security skills. Particularly valuable for ETs targeting network administrator or engineer positions. GI Bill covers many CCNA prep programs.
RecommendedCost $250 - $350 per exam (2 exams)Time 1-2 months prepGI Bill eligibleEntry-level IT certification covering hardware and software troubleshooting. Many ETs find this too basic given their experience — consider going directly to Network+ or Security+ unless targeting help desk roles.
RecommendedCost ~$555 (PMI member)Time 3-6 months prepGI Bill eligibleValuable for ETs moving into technical project management. System installation, equipment modernization, and maintenance program management hours count toward PMP eligibility. Strong for defense contractor program offices.
RecommendedCost $150 - $300Time 4-5 daysGI Bill eligibleEntry credential for safety careers. Relevant for ETs targeting electrical safety or industrial safety roles. Can be completed online. Good foundation for CSP pursuit.
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: Defense contractors like L3Harris, Raytheon, and Northrop Grumman participate in DOD SkillBridge. This lets you work civilian positions during your last 180 days while still receiving military pay. Search the SkillBridge database for current openings in electronics and telecommunications.
CompTIA Certifications: CompTIA offers stackable IT certifications that are widely recognized. A+ (hardware/troubleshooting), Network+ (networking), and Security+ (cybersecurity) are the entry-level trio. Many ETs can pass Security+ with minimal additional study. CompTIA offers military discounts.
Manufacturer Certifications: If you maintained specific systems (Cisco, Motorola, Harris radios), manufacturer certifications validate your expertise. Cisco CCNA is particularly valuable for network-focused ETs.
IEEE and AFCEA: The IEEE is the world's largest technical professional organization. AFCEA (Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association) specifically serves the defense/intelligence C4ISR community — excellent for networking into defense contractor positions.
Cybersecurity Careers: ETs with COMSEC, TEMPEST, or classified network experience are well-positioned for cybersecurity roles. Start with CompTIA Security+, then target CISSP for advancement. BLS reports infosec analysts at $124,910 median with 33% growth — one of the fastest-growing fields in the economy.
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is valued for ETs transitioning into technical project management. Your experience managing system installations, coordinating maintenance schedules, and leading technical teams counts toward PMP eligibility.
Federal Employment (USAJobs): Create your USAJobs profile immediately. Key agencies for ETs: DHS, FAA, NSA, DOD, and the intelligence community. Federal resumes are 2 pages max. Build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) provides free mentorship from corporate executives. ACP is legitimate and completely free for veterans.
Clearance Leverage: Your active Secret (or higher) clearance is extremely valuable in the defense and intelligence sectors. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions requiring active clearances. ETs with TS/SCI access are in particularly high demand. Do not let your clearance lapse during transition.
GI Bill Strategy: Consider using your GI Bill for certifications and short programs rather than a 4-year degree — CISSP, CCNA, and PMP prep courses offer faster ROI for ETs who already have hands-on technical experience. Use the GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval.
Coast Guard Resume Guide | Complete Military Resume Guide | Top Companies Hiring Veterans | Build Your Resume Free
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
According to BLS May 2024 data, electrical and electronics repairers in commercial/industrial settings earn a median of $66,820 (O*NET 49-2094.00). Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers earn a median of $61,070 (O*NET 49-2022.00). ETs who pivot to network administration earn a median of $96,800, and those targeting cybersecurity can reach $124,910 (information security analysts). The path you choose matters significantly for earning potential.
Depends on your target career. For IT/cybersecurity: CompTIA Security+ is the minimum — many ETs can pass it with existing knowledge. For network roles: CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCNA. For project management: start PMP prep. For continued electronics work: manufacturer-specific certifications (Cisco, Motorola, Harris) validate your systems experience. Universal: keep your Security+ and any active clearance credentials current through separation.
Extremely. An active Secret clearance saves employers $5,000-15,000+ and months of processing time. ETs with TS/SCI access are in even higher demand. Defense contractors, intelligence agencies, and DHS components actively recruit cleared technicians. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions specifically. Your clearance remains active for up to 24 months after separation — start your job search before it lapses.
Many ETs pivot successfully into project management (BLS median $100,750), operations management ($102,950), management analysis ($101,190), or training development ($65,850). Your transferable skills — systematic troubleshooting, technical documentation, team coordination, independent problem-solving — are valued across industries. See the Career Change Paths section for specific paths and entry requirements.
Not necessarily. Many cybersecurity employers — especially defense contractors and federal agencies — accept military technical experience combined with certifications in lieu of a degree. CompTIA Security+ is the baseline. CISSP (for senior roles) typically requires 5 years of experience, which military service can satisfy. BLS reports 33% growth for information security analysts, so demand outpaces the supply of credentialed professionals.
Very favorably. Companies like L3Harris, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics maintain the exact same C5ISR, radar, and communications systems that CG ETs work on. Your hands-on maintenance experience, combined with an active clearance, makes you a direct hire for field service engineer and systems technician positions. Many defense contractors participate in SkillBridge programs specifically to recruit separating ETs.
Veterans' Preference gives you 5 or 10 extra points on federal hiring assessments. Many federal IT positions (GS-2210) also use Direct Hire Authority, which can expedite the process. DHS Cybersecurity and CISA are frequent users of DHA for IT roles. For GS-0856 (Electronics Technician) positions, your military experience directly satisfies the specialized experience requirement at the GS-7 through GS-11 level.
For ETs with hands-on experience, certifications typically offer faster ROI than a 4-year degree. CompTIA, Cisco, and ISC2 certifications are GI Bill-eligible at many training providers. However, if you are targeting electronics engineering (GS-0855) or computer science (GS-1550) federal positions, a bachelor's degree may be required. Evaluate your target career path before committing. Use the VA GI Bill Comparison Tool to verify program approval.
For defense contractors: DC Metro (Northern Virginia/Maryland), San Diego, Colorado Springs, Huntsville (AL), and any major military installation area. For telecommunications: major metro areas with 5G buildout. For cybersecurity: DC Metro leads, followed by New York, San Francisco, and Dallas. For federal GS-0856 positions: anywhere with CG, FAA, or DOD shore installations. Remote work is increasingly available for cybersecurity and IT roles.
Yes — start 12 months before your EAS. At 180 days out, you may qualify for DOD SkillBridge at a defense contractor. At minimum: earn Security+ or Network+ 6-9 months out, have your resume ready 6 months out, apply to federal positions 6 months out (federal hiring is slow), and network through AFCEA events. Use terminal leave as your transition runway. Many defense contractors will begin the interview process while you are still active.
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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