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Military Cyber-Operations Specialists

Military Career

General Information

Description

Cyber-operations specialists conduct offensive and defensive cyberspace operations in support of the full range of military options. They utilize devices, computer programs, and techniques designed to create an effect across cyberspace. Offensive operations involve applying force to target enemy and hostile adversary activities and capabilities. Defensive operations are conducted to protect data, networks, and net-centric capabilities by detecting, identifying, and responding to attacks from external forces.

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Work Environment

Cyber-operations specialists work in offices or in command and control centers on land or aboard ships.

Comparable Industries

  • Information Technology

Related Military Careers

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Military Outlook

Service Branches

Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.

Military Status

  • Enlisted
    • Hands-on/specialized
    • High school diploma required

Military Workforce

Cyber-Operations Specialists in the Military

7,789

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Salary

Average Salary

$81,108

What makes up a military salary?

Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.

They also offer:

  • Housing allowances
  • Subsistence allowances
  • Special and incentive pays
  • Cost-of-living allowances
  • Hazardous-duty pay
  • Bonuses

Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator

Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits

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Education

Most Common Education Levels

People in this career achieve this level of education.

  • Bachelor's degree 52%
  • Post baccalaureate 22%
  • Associate's degree 12%
  • Post-secondary certificate 7%
  • Some college 2%
  • Master's degree 2%
  • High school 0%
  • Doctoral degree 0%
  • Less than high school 0%
  • Post-doctoral training 0%
  • Post-master's certificate 0%
  • First professional degree 0%

Military training

Like all enlisted personnel, cyber operations specialists complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Cyber operations specialists in the Military receive advanced training. Starting with extensive technical preparation in everything from database design to computer networking to communications systems, skills continue to be enhanced through classroom and on-the-job instruction. Training content may include: Conducting defensive cyberspace operationsConducting offensive cyberspace operationsOperating automated data processing (ADP) equipment Analyzing information and preparing technical products and time sensitive reportsDeveloping and maintaining analytical and operational working aids and databasesInstallating and configuring networksCaring, maintaining, and using networking software tools/equipment

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Military training

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Like all enlisted personnel, cyber operations specialists complete basic military training, which includes time spent in a classroom and in the field, and covers tactical and survival skills, physical training, military life and customs, and weapons training. Cyber operations specialists in the Military receive advanced training. Starting with extensive technical preparation in everything from database design to computer networking to communications systems, skills continue to be enhanced through classroom and on-the-job instruction. Training content may include:

  • Conducting defensive cyberspace operations
  • Conducting offensive cyberspace operations
  • Operating automated data processing (ADP) equipment 
  • Analyzing information and preparing technical products and time sensitive reports
  • Developing and maintaining analytical and operational working aids and databases
  • Installating and configuring networks
  • Caring, maintaining, and using networking software tools/equipment

Related College Majors

Select major to see colleges that offer it

Knowledge

  • Computers and Electronics
  • Education and Training
  • English Language
  • Customer and Personal Service
  • Telecommunications
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Data supplied by Bureau of Labor Statistics, National Center of Education Statistics, Defense Manpower Data Center (View our update schedule). Contact any business, college or military service branch to answer additional questions.