Military Jobs and Careers
Members of the U.S. military service maintain the U.S. national defense. Although some service members work in occupations specific to the military, such as fighter pilots or infantrymen, many work in occupations that also exist in the civilian workplace, such as nurses, doctors, and lawyers. Members serve in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Space Force, Marine Corps, or Coast Guard, or in the Reserve components of these branches, and in the Air National Guard and Army National Guard. (The Coast Guard, which is included in this profile, is part of the Department of Homeland Security.)
(U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, January 2023).
Air Force Pilot
Air Force fighter pilots are highly skilled aviators who operate fighter aircraft, engaging in aerial combat, reconnaissance, and tactical missions to ensure air superiority and national security.
Army Infantryman
Army infantryman are frontline soldiers who engage in direct combat and ground warfare, executing missions that involve patrolling, securing territory, and engaging enemy forces to achieve military objectives.
Marine Corps Combat Engineer
Marine combat engineers are specialized military personnel responsible for constructing, demolishing, and maintaining critical infrastructure and obstacles in combat zones to support Marine Corps operations.
Military Chaplin (priest)
Religious program specialists assist chaplains with religious services, religious education programs, and related administrative duties.
Military Drill Sergeant
Military drill sergeants are experienced and demanding non-commissioned officers who train and discipline new recruits through rigorous physical and mental exercises, instilling discipline, teamwork, and readiness for military service.
Military Service and Operations
The military distinguishes between enlisted and officer careers.
Navy SEAL
Navy SEALs are elite special operations forces within the United States Navy, trained to conduct a wide range of clandestine maritime, air, and land missions, often in challenging and hostile environments.
Military Branches
US Air Force
The mission of the United States Air Force is to fly, fight and win in air, space and cyberspace. Our rich history and our vision guide our Airmen as we pursue our mission with excellence and integrity to become leaders, innovators and warriors.
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US Army
The Army is the largest military branch in the United States. Its job is to protect the country and its citizens.
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US Coast Guard
Since 1790, the Coast Guard has safeguarded the American people and promoted national security, border security, and economic prosperity in a complex and evolving maritime environment. The Coast Guard saves those in peril and protects the Nation from all maritime threats.
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US Marine Corps
Marines are trained to improvise, adapt and overcome any obstacle in whatever situation they are needed. We are first to fight and determined to succeed.
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US Navy
To recruit, train, equip, and organize to deliver combat ready Naval forces to win conflicts and wars while maintaining security and deterrence through sustained forward presence.
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US Space Force
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