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MarinesMOS: 0671
Data Systems Administrator
The civilian and federal jobs that hire Marines Data Systems Administrators — with real salaries and the resume that gets callbacks.
Every 0671 has more options than a Google search will tell you. Below: career paths, BLS salary data, federal GS series, certifications by target career, and how to translate your experience without losing what made you valuable to the Marines in the first place.
Free · No credit card · Tailored resume in under 5 minutes
$61K–$170K
Salary Range
BLS-verified median salaries
14
Career Paths
12
Companies Hiring
8
Resume Examples
10
Federal GS Series
4
Certification Paths
10
FAQs Answered
BT
Brad Tachi
Navy Diver · BMR Founder
After the Navy I got hired into 6 federal career fields and tech sales, and sat on federal hiring panels along the way. I spent the last 2 years rebuilding everything I learned into BMR, tuned for how AI actually screens resumes today. This is the system I wish I'd had on day one.
60,000+ resumes built·Success stories every week
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Military Role Overview
Marine Corps Data Systems Administrators (MOS 0671) are the backbone of Marine tactical and garrison communications networks. 0671s install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot data network systems including routers, switches, servers, and workstations across every type of Marine unit — from infantry battalions to Marine Air-Ground Task Forces (MAGTFs) to Headquarters Marine Corps.
Training begins at the Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School (MCCES) in Twentynine Palms, California, where 0671s learn network fundamentals, server administration, and tactical data systems. In the fleet, they manage everything from garrison Microsoft enterprise environments to deployed tactical networks using systems like the Tactical Data Network (TDN) and Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S). Many 0671s also work with classified network infrastructure (SIPRNet/JWICS), earning or maintaining security clearances that carry significant value in civilian markets.
What sets 0671s apart from civilian-trained IT professionals is the operational environment. You do not just rack servers in a climate-controlled data center — you deploy communications in austere field conditions, troubleshoot under time pressure during exercises and real-world operations, and maintain network uptime for units that depend on connectivity for mission success. That combination of enterprise-level IT skills and operational adaptability is exactly what employers in both private and public sectors are looking for.
0671s map directly to the GS-2210 Information Technology Management series — I've worked across federal hiring on the supply and contracting side and saw 0671s land at DISA, MARCORSYSCOM, and major defense contractors consistently. The cleared sysadmin experience plus tactical environment depth is the foundation. — Brad Tachi, Navy Diver veteran & BMR founder
Security ClearanceSecret (minimum), TS/SCI for some billets
ASVAB RequirementGT 110+, EL 115+
TrainingMarine Corps Communication-Electronics School (MCCES), Twentynine Palms, CA. Course covers network fundamentals, server administration, tactical data systems, and information assurance. Follow-on training varies by unit assignment and may include Cisco, Microsoft, or cybersecurity-specific courses.
Certs Earned in ServiceCompTIA Security+ (some commands), CompTIA Network+ (some commands), Cisco CCNA (select billets), Microsoft certifications (varies by assignment)
Pay Reality Check
The number that matters when you're deciding what's next: how does civilian pay compare to what you make now?
Marines mid-career
$58K–$82K
E-5 to E-7 total comp (base + BAH + BAS + tax advantage)
Civilian Data Systems Administrator
$61K–$170K
BLS median across direct-match civilian roles
Federal (GS-9 to GS-13)
$58K–$120K
10 matching GS series + locality pay + step increases
+65% on average
Civilian roles for Data Systems Administrators pay ~$46K more than mid-career enlisted total comp.
Military comp is approximate (varies by location/dependents). Civilian is BLS median. Federal includes locality pay. Your real number depends on duty station, family status, GS step, and overtime.
Private Sector Career Paths
The private sector IT market is one of the strongest landing spots for separating 0671s. Network administration, systems administration, and cybersecurity roles map directly to your daily duties, and employers across industries need these skills — not just defense contractors.
According to BLS (May 2024), the median annual wage for Network and Computer Systems Administrators is $96,800, with employment of roughly 363,100 nationwide. Information Security Analysts earn a median of $124,910 with projected growth of 33% (much faster than average). Computer User Support Specialists — a common entry-level bridge role — earn a median of $60,810.
For 0671s with server and database experience, Database Administrators earn a median of $105,750 and Computer Systems Analysts earn $104,340. The cloud infrastructure boom has also created strong demand for cloud systems administrators and DevOps engineers, though BLS does not track these specialties separately from the broader systems administrator category.
One advantage 0671s carry: experience managing both Windows Server and Linux environments. Many Marines work with Red Hat-based systems on classified networks alongside Windows Active Directory on unclassified networks, giving you cross-platform skills that many civilian IT workers lack. If you also handled Cisco networking equipment (common in 0671 billets), that broadens your options further into network engineering roles.
Civilian Job Title Translations
| Civilian Job Title | Industry | BLS Median Salary | Outlook | Match |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Network and Computer Systems Administrator O*NET: 15-1244.00 | Information Technology | $96,800 | 3% (as fast as average) | strong |
Information Security Analyst O*NET: 15-1212.00 | Cybersecurity | $124,910 | 33% (much faster than average) | strong |
Computer User Support Specialist O*NET: 15-1232.00 | Information Technology | $60,810 | 5% (faster than average) | strong |
Database Administrator O*NET: 15-1242.00 | Information Technology | $105,750 | 8% (faster than average) | moderate |
Computer Systems Analyst O*NET: 15-1211.00 | Information Technology | $104,340 | 10% (much faster than average) | moderate |
Computer Network Architect O*NET: 15-1241.00 | Information Technology | $129,840 | 4% (as fast as average) | moderate |
Software Developer O*NET: 15-1252.00 | Technology | $133,080 | 17% (much faster than average) | low |
Computer and Information Systems Manager O*NET: 11-3021.00 | Information Technology | $169,510 | 17% (much faster than average) | moderate |
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
Information Technology
$96,800median
3% (as fast as average)
O*NET: 15-1244.00
Information Security Analyst
Cybersecurity
$124,910median
33% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 15-1212.00
Computer User Support Specialist
Information Technology
$60,810median
5% (faster than average)
O*NET: 15-1232.00
Database Administrator
Information Technology
$105,750median
8% (faster than average)
O*NET: 15-1242.00
Computer Systems Analyst
Information Technology
$104,340median
10% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 15-1211.00
Computer Network Architect
Information Technology
$129,840median
4% (as fast as average)
O*NET: 15-1241.00
Software Developer
Technology
$133,080median
17% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 15-1252.00
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Information Technology
$169,510median
17% (much faster than average)
O*NET: 11-3021.00
Companies That Hire This Background
AWS re/Start is a free full-time training program for military veterans transitioning to cloud careers. Also offers SkillBridge positions at various AWS offices.
MSSA is a SkillBridge-approved program providing 17 weeks of technical training in cloud development, cloud administration, or cybersecurity. Graduates receive Microsoft certifications and interviews with Microsoft and hiring partners.
Major defense and intelligence contractor with heavy IT workforce needs. Active clearance holders are prioritized. Offices near most major military installations.
One of the largest IT services providers to the federal government. Hires systems administrators, network engineers, and cybersecurity analysts — many positions require clearances.
Provides IT solutions to defense, intelligence, and federal civilian agencies. Strong demand for cleared network and systems administrators.
Provides IT infrastructure support to DoD and intelligence agencies. GDIT frequently hires former military IT professionals for network administration and cybersecurity roles.
Major networking equipment manufacturer with veteran hiring programs. 0671s with Cisco networking experience have direct relevance.
Leading cybersecurity company. Hires network security engineers and analysts — strong fit for 0671s with firewall and information assurance experience.
Endpoint security leader with growing workforce. Values candidates who understand network defense and incident response from operational environments.
Major federal IT contractor. Hires across systems administration, cybersecurity, and network engineering. Many positions support DoD and IC agencies.
Provides IT infrastructure and cybersecurity services to federal agencies. Active clearances and military IT experience are highly valued.
VetForce provides free Salesforce training and certifications for veterans. Salesforce Administrator certification opens doors to a large ecosystem of Salesforce consulting firms.
See a salary you want? Build a resume targeting it.
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Real Marines success story
“Hey Brad, Just wanted to send out a quick thank you. You've created something amazing with BMR and your continued advocacy for transitioning service members does not go unnoticed. It was the most effective resource I used in my transition and I know it played a key role in landing a six figure…”
Dominic· Gunnery Sergeant (E-7)· Marines
→ Project ManagerFederal Career Paths
Federal IT hiring has been aggressive in recent years, driven by cybersecurity mandates and modernization initiatives across agencies. The GS-2210 (Information Technology Management) series is the most direct match — it covers network administration, systems administration, cybersecurity, and data management under one classification. Most 0671s with 4+ years of experience can qualify at the GS-9 to GS-12 level depending on scope of responsibility and certifications held.
Beyond 2210, several other GS series are worth targeting. GS-0332 (Computer Operations) and GS-0391 (Telecommunications) positions exist at agencies with legacy systems or specialized communications infrastructure. GS-0854 (Computer Engineering) and GS-0855 (Electronics Engineering) may be accessible if you have a relevant degree. For those who want to move into management, GS-0340 (Program Management) and GS-0343 (Management and Program Analyst) positions are available across every federal agency.
Key agencies hiring IT professionals include DHS (particularly CISA), DoD civilian agencies (DISA, DCSA), VA, Treasury, and intelligence community agencies. Veterans with active clearances are especially competitive for DoD and IC positions where the clearance backlog can delay civilian candidates by 12-18 months.
GS Series & Position Matches
| GS Series | Federal Job Title | Typical Grades | Match | Explore |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-2210 | Information Technology Management | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0332 | Computer Operations | GS-7, GS-9 | View Details → | |
| GS-0391 | Telecommunications | GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-0340 | Program Management | GS-11, GS-12, GS-13 | View Details → | |
| GS-0343 | Management and Program Analyst | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0301 | Miscellaneous Administration and Program | GS-7, GS-9 | View Details → | |
| GS-0854 | Computer Engineering | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0855 | Electronics Engineering | GS-9, GS-11 | View Details → | |
| GS-1550 | Computer Science | GS-9, GS-11, GS-12 | View Details → | |
| GS-0335 | Computer Clerk and Assistant | GS-5, GS-7 | View Details → |
Federal resumes follow different rules. We know them.
Federal hiring uses keyword-matching and structured experience. BMR builds federal-format resumes (USAJobs-ready) with the right keywords, hours/week, and supervisor info — for any GS series above.
Free · No credit card · Federal + civilian resume formats included
Want to Change Careers Entirely?
Not everyone wants to stay in a related field. These career paths leverage your transferable skills — leadership, risk management, logistics, project planning — in completely different industries.
Avionics Technician
$81,390
Aviation Maintenance(O*NET: 49-2091.00)BLS OEWS May 20245% (Faster than average)
Diagnosing faults in complex integrated systemsMethodical, documentation-driven troubleshootingConfiguring and testing electronic systemsWorking to exacting reliability standards
A 0671 keeps complex integrated systems running and documents every fix. Avionics work is the same discipline applied to aircraft electronics, far outside an IT shop, where a methodical diagnosis and a clean paper trail are everything.
How to get there: Earn an FAA repairman or avionics certificate (often a 1-2 year program); some employers accept equivalent military electronics experience with on-the-job training.
Medical Equipment Repairer
$62,630
Healthcare(O*NET: 49-9062.00)BLS OEWS May 202415% (Much faster than average)
Troubleshooting complex equipment under uptime pressurePreventive maintenance and configurationDetailed service documentationCalibration and quality verification
Hospitals depend on equipment that cannot go down, the same uptime accountability a data systems administrator lives with. Biomedical repair rewards structured troubleshooting and meticulous records in a field with nothing to do with IT.
How to get there: An associate degree in biomedical equipment technology is typical; some enter with strong military electronics experience plus employer training, then earn the CBET credential.
Air Traffic Controller
$144,580
Aviation / Transportation(O*NET: 53-2021.00)BLS OEWS May 20243% (As fast as average)
Managing a complex real-time system with zero fault toleranceStrict adherence to proceduresCalm decision-making under pressureContinuous monitoring and prioritization
Running airspace is system administration of a different kind: a live, high-stakes system that cannot fail, governed by strict procedure. The composure and procedural discipline of a 0671 transfer directly.
How to get there: Apply through the FAA, complete the AT-SAT assessment and FAA Academy training; military air traffic or controller experience is a strong advantage. Age and medical limits apply.
Stationary Engineer and Boiler Operator
$75,190
Facilities / Utilities(O*NET: 51-8021.00)BLS OEWS May 20242% (Slower than average)
Monitoring and operating complex building systemsDiagnosing and correcting faultsMaintaining uptime for critical infrastructureLogging operations and following procedures
Keeping a building's mechanical systems running around the clock mirrors keeping servers and networks up: constant monitoring, fast fault diagnosis, and disciplined logs, just in HVAC and power plants instead of racks.
How to get there: Most enter through an apprenticeship or a community-college program and earn a state or municipal stationary engineer license; military systems experience shortens the ramp.
Health Information Technologist and Medical Registrar
$67,310
Healthcare / Health Information(O*NET: 29-9021.00)BLS OEWS May 202416% (Much faster than average)
Data integrity and quality controlMaintaining structured records to a standardAuditing for accuracy and completenessProcess and documentation discipline
A data systems administrator's instinct for clean, accurate, well-governed data is exactly what health information management runs on, without the network-administration role, in a fast-growing healthcare field focused on record integrity.
How to get there: An associate or bachelor's in health information management plus the RHIT or RHIA credential is the standard path; some registrar roles accept strong data-handling experience with certification.
Aircraft Mechanic and Service Technician
$78,680
Aviation Maintenance(O*NET: 49-3011.00)BLS OEWS May 20245% (Faster than average)
Systematic fault isolationMaintaining complex systems to specRigorous maintenance documentationWorking under strict reliability requirements
Aircraft maintenance is structured troubleshooting with a mandatory paper trail and zero tolerance for a missed step, the same methodical, documentation-heavy mindset a 0671 brings, applied to airframes instead of servers.
How to get there: Earn FAA Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) certification through a Part 147 school or documented experience; military maintenance time can count toward eligibility.
Pivoting industries? You don't need to start from scratch.
The skills that made you a good Marine, Sailor, Airman, or Soldier transfer further than you think. BMR rewrites your bullets for any of the pivot careers above — without making you sound like you've never done the work.
Free · No credit card · Try unlimited career angles
Skills Translation Guide
If you are applying to IT companies, managed service providers, or defense contractors for network and systems administration roles, your terminology translates directly — recruiters in those industries know what Active Directory, SCCM, and Cisco IOS mean. This section is for Marines targeting careers outside of IT: project management, operations, consulting, or business roles where the hiring manager has never heard of a MAGTF or SIPRNet.
Resume Bullet Examples
Before (Military)
Maintained SIPRNet and NIPRNet connectivity for 800+ users across a Marine Expeditionary Unit
After (Civilian)
Managed dual-domain enterprise network infrastructure supporting 800+ users, ensuring 99.9% uptime across classified and unclassified environments
Before (Military)
Served as data section head for a communications platoon of 12 Marines
After (Civilian)
Led a 12-person IT infrastructure team responsible for network operations, server administration, and end-user support across distributed locations
Before (Military)
Deployed and configured TDN in support of battalion operations during Exercise Steel Knight
After (Civilian)
Designed and deployed temporary network infrastructure supporting 500+ simultaneous connections in a resource-constrained field environment within 48-hour operational deadline
Before (Military)
Managed IAVA patching and STIG compliance for 200+ workstations and 15 servers
After (Civilian)
Administered security compliance program across 215+ endpoints, implementing vulnerability remediation within mandated timelines and maintaining audit-ready documentation
Before (Military)
Administered CAC-enabled PKI infrastructure and resolved certificate enrollment issues for the battalion
After (Civilian)
Managed enterprise public key infrastructure and identity management systems, processing certificate lifecycle events for 800+ user accounts with zero security incidents
Before (Military)
Briefed the Commanding Officer on network readiness status and cybersecurity posture weekly
After (Civilian)
Delivered weekly IT infrastructure status reports to C-suite leadership, covering system availability, security posture, and capacity planning recommendations
Before (Military)
Diagnosed and restored communications during a comm down event affecting battalion-level operations in a field environment
After (Civilian)
Performed root cause analysis and resolved critical network outages affecting 500+ users in time-sensitive operational environments, restoring service within established SLA targets
Before (Military)
Maintained 100% accountability of $2.3M in communications equipment on the Consolidated Memorandum Receipt
After (Civilian)
Managed IT asset inventory valued at $2.3M, maintaining 100% accountability through lifecycle tracking, condition reporting, and disposition procedures
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Certifications by Career Path
Which certifications you need depends on where you're headed. Find your target career path below.
Cloud Computing
AWS Solutions Architect - Associate
Cloud infrastructure certification. High demand as organizations migrate to cloud environments.Amazon Web Services
Cost: $150 exam feeTime: 2-4 months studyGI Bill Eligible
AWS offers free training resources for military members. This certification opens doors to cloud engineering and architecture roles.
Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104)
Validates Azure cloud administration skills. Many federal agencies and enterprises use Azure.Microsoft
Cost: $165 exam feeTime: 2-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Microsoft offers military discounts and free training through MSSA. Natural fit for 0671s with Windows Server and Active Directory experience.
Cybersecurity
CompTIA Security+
Required for DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II positions. The most common certification for government and contractor IT jobs.CompTIA
Cost: $350-404 (military discount available)Time: 1-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Some 0671s may have earned this on active duty depending on command funding. Meets baseline DoD cybersecurity workforce requirements.
CompTIA CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst)
Intermediate cybersecurity certification. Covers threat detection, analysis, and response. Meets DoD 8570 CSSP Analyst requirements.CompTIA
Cost: $350-404 (military discount available)Time: 2-4 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Builds on Security+ for 0671s targeting dedicated cybersecurity analyst roles. Growing demand across both government and private sector.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
Senior-level cybersecurity certification. Requires 5 years of experience in two or more CISSP domains.ISC2
Cost: $749 exam feeTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Premium credential for experienced 0671s targeting cybersecurity management or senior analyst roles. ISC2 endorsement process accepts military experience.
IT & Networking
CompTIA Network+
Validates networking fundamentals — routers, switches, protocols, troubleshooting. Good foundation credential.CompTIA
Cost: $350-404 (military discount available)Time: 1-3 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Some commands fund Network+ for 0671s. Covers the networking fundamentals that 0671s use daily.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Industry-standard networking certification. Validates Cisco-specific routing, switching, and network fundamentals skills.Cisco Systems
Cost: $330 exam feeTime: 2-4 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Strong credential for 0671s who worked with Cisco equipment in the fleet. Highly recognized by private sector employers.
ITIL Foundation
IT service management framework certification. Many enterprise IT organizations use ITIL processes.Axelos/PeopleCert
Cost: $383 exam feeTime: 1-2 months studyGI Bill Eligible
Demonstrates understanding of IT service delivery frameworks. Valued by large enterprises and managed service providers. Bridges military IT processes to civilian ITSM terminology.
Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
IT audit and compliance certification. Valued in regulated industries (finance, healthcare, government).ISACA
Cost: $575-760 exam feeTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
For 0671s with STIG compliance and IA audit experience pivoting to IT compliance or audit roles. ISACA accepts military experience toward the experience requirement.
Project Management
Project Management Professional (PMP)
Gold-standard project management certification. Recognized across all industries.Project Management Institute (PMI)
Cost: $555 (PMI member) exam feeTime: 3-6 months studyGI Bill Eligible
For 0671s pivoting to project management. Your network deployment and system migration experience counts toward the 36-month experience requirement.
Got a cert? Don't bury it. List it the right way.
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Transition Resources
For Staying in Information Technology
SkillBridge Programs: Multiple IT companies participate in DOD SkillBridge, including Amazon (AWS re/Start), Microsoft (MSSA), and Salesforce (VetForce). These programs let you train and work at civilian tech companies during your last 180 days of active duty. Search the SkillBridge database for current openings — new IT partners join frequently.
CompTIA Certifications: CompTIA offers military discounts on exam vouchers and many bases have testing centers. Security+, Network+, and CySA+ are the most marketable. Security+ meets DoD 8570/8140 requirements, making it valuable for both contractor and federal IT positions.
Cisco Certifications: If you worked with Cisco equipment in the fleet, Cisco certifications (CCNA, CCNP) validate your networking skills. GI Bill covers many Cisco training programs.
Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud all offer free training resources and certification paths. AWS Solutions Architect Associate and Microsoft Azure Administrator (AZ-104) are strong additions to a 0671's resume.
For Careers Outside of IT
Project Management: The PMP certification (PMI) is respected across industries. Your experience managing network deployments and system migrations counts toward the project hours requirement. Cost: ~$555 (PMI member) for the exam.
Federal Employment: Create your USAJobs profile 6 months before separation. GS-2210 positions are posted constantly. Federal resumes are 2 pages max — build yours here.
Veteran Networking: American Corporate Partners (ACP) pairs veterans with corporate mentors in their target industry — free for all veterans.
Clearance Leverage: An active Secret or TS/SCI clearance has real market value. ClearanceJobs.com lists positions requiring active clearances. Defense contractors and IC agencies actively recruit cleared IT professionals. Do not let your clearance lapse during transition.
Education Benefits: GI Bill covers certification exam fees, training boot camps, and degree programs. Verify current approval at the GI Bill Comparison Tool before enrolling.
BMR Career Resources
Marine Infantry Resume Guide | Complete Military Resume Guide | Top Companies Hiring Veterans | Build Your Resume Free
Your 30 / 60 / 90-Day Transition Plan
Most veterans do this backwards — they wait until terminal leave to start, then panic. Here's the actual sequence that works.
1Days 0–30
Set the foundation
- Pull your DD-214 (request from Milconnect if separated)
- List your top 3 civilian roles AND top 3 GS series
- Build your tailored 0671 resume — BMR does it free
- Write 1 strong LinkedIn headline (not "veteran seeking opportunities")
- Pull together your evals/performance reports for accomplishments
2Days 30–60
Apply with intent
- Apply to 5–10 jobs/week — quality over quantity
- Tailor every resume to the job description (BMR auto-tailors)
- Connect with 5 people/week on LinkedIn (not a spray)
- Set up a USAJobs profile and a saved-search alert for your GS series
- Practice translating your military bullets out loud — explain to a civilian friend
3Days 60–90
Close the offer
- Track every application — date, status, contact, notes
- Follow up 7–10 days after each application
- Prep for behavioral interviews using the STAR method
- Negotiate salary — don't take the first offer (BLS median is your floor)
- Stay applying even after one offer — leverage = options
Print this. Tape it to your monitor. Veterans who treat the transition like a 90-day op get hired faster than the ones who treat it like an emergency.
Frequently Asked Questions
What civilian jobs can I get with an 0671 MOS?
The most direct civilian equivalents are Network Administrator (BLS median $96,800), Systems Administrator, Information Security Analyst (BLS median $124,910), and Computer Support Specialist (BLS median $60,810). Your daily duties — managing servers, configuring routers and switches, maintaining Active Directory, troubleshooting network issues — map directly to private sector IT roles. Defense contractors, MSPs, and enterprise IT departments all hire former 0671s.
What is the salary range for former 0671s in civilian IT?
According to BLS May 2024 data, Network and Computer Systems Administrators earn a median of $96,800. Information Security Analysts earn $124,910. Database Administrators earn $105,750. Computer Systems Analysts earn $104,340. Entry-level support roles start around $60,810 (Computer User Support Specialists). Actual compensation depends on certifications, clearance status, location, and experience level.
Do I need certifications to get hired in civilian IT?
Certifications significantly improve your competitiveness, but not all are equally valuable. CompTIA Security+ is the most common requirement for government contractor positions (DoD 8570/8140 compliance). For private sector networking roles, CCNA demonstrates Cisco-specific skills. For cloud roles, AWS Solutions Architect or Microsoft AZ-104 are in high demand. Some employers will hire experienced candidates without certifications and fund certification later — but having at least Security+ or Network+ gives you an edge.
How does my 0671 experience translate to federal GS positions?
The GS-2210 (Information Technology Management) series is the most direct match. With 4+ years of experience, many former 0671s qualify at GS-9 to GS-12 depending on scope and certifications. Veterans Preference gives you 5 or 10 additional points on federal hiring assessments. Key tip: apply to GS-2210 positions at DHS, DISA, VA, or DoD agencies where your military IT background is directly understood. Start applying 6 months before separation — federal hiring moves slowly.
Is my security clearance valuable for civilian IT jobs?
Yes — an active clearance is one of the biggest advantages you carry. Secret or TS/SCI clearances save employers significant time and money (the investigation process takes months for civilian candidates). Defense contractors, intelligence community agencies, and DHS all require cleared IT staff. ClearanceJobs.com and cleared positions on USAJobs are the best places to leverage this. Important: clearances stay active for up to 24 months after separation, so start your job search before yours lapses.
What if I want to leave IT entirely?
Many former 0671s transition into project management (BLS median $100,750), operations management ($102,950), or management consulting ($101,190). The transferable skills — troubleshooting complex systems, managing competing priorities, briefing leadership, and working under pressure — apply across industries. PMP certification is the fastest path to project management roles. See the Career Change Paths section above for specific pivot options with salary data.
Should I use my GI Bill for a degree or IT certifications?
Depends on your timeline and career goals. Certifications (Security+, CCNA, AWS) provide faster ROI — you can earn them in weeks to months and immediately improve your marketability. A bachelor's in IT, cybersecurity, or computer science opens doors for senior and management positions long-term. Many employers accept military experience plus certifications in lieu of a degree for mid-level roles. If you have time, consider a degree program that lets you earn certifications along the way.
What SkillBridge programs are available for 0671s?
Several major tech companies offer SkillBridge programs: Amazon's AWS re/Start, Microsoft Software and Systems Academy (MSSA), Salesforce VetForce, and various defense contractors. These programs let you work or train at a civilian company during your last 180 days of active duty while still receiving military pay. Search the SkillBridge database at skillbridge.osd.mil for current openings — programs change frequently. Start the application process 6-9 months before your desired start date.
How do I prepare for civilian IT interviews?
Civilian IT interviews often include technical screening (troubleshooting scenarios, networking questions, systems design). Practice explaining your military projects in business terms — instead of 'maintained SIPRNet for a battalion,' say 'administered a classified network supporting 800+ users with 99.9% uptime requirements.' Quantify everything: number of users supported, systems managed, tickets resolved, projects delivered. Be prepared for behavioral questions about teamwork and problem-solving — your operational experience gives you strong real-world examples.
Can I start job searching while still on active duty?
Yes, and you should start 12 months before your EAS. Update your LinkedIn profile (you can do this on active duty). Start earning certifications at 12 months out. At 6 months, begin applying to federal positions (slow hiring process) and networking with civilian contacts through ACP. At 180 days, you may qualify for SkillBridge. Use terminal leave strategically as your transition runway. Many Marines find that starting early is the difference between a smooth transition and a stressful one.
Salary data from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2024. Career data from O*NET OnLine.
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