For Educators: Military Resources
Military Cyber-Operations Specialists
Median Salary
67,190
Workforce Count
25,008
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
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 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.
What is the work environment like?
Cyber-operations specialists work in offices or in command and control centers on land or aboard ships.
How many people have this role in the Military?
25,008
Compensation
Understanding How Military Pay is More Than Just a Salary
Base pay is the standard income you’ll earn as a service member, providing a stable foundation to start achieving your financial goals.
- Always fixed based on rank and service time.
- Distributed monthly.
What is the typical salary range?
Salary by Years of Service
$106,015
2 Years
$76,732
6 Years
$106,015
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
What Service Branches offer this role?
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Enlisted service members execute vital tasks, support operations alongside officers and develop role-specific skills to achieve mission success.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
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
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- Computer and Information Systems Security/Auditing/Information Assurance
- Cyber/Computer Forensics and Counterterrorism
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Computer Systems Networking and Telecommunications
- Network and System Administration/Administrator
- Information Technology Project Management
- System, Networking, and LAN/WAN Management/Manager
Learn About How Military Can Pay for 100% of your College Degree
The Military has several programs that cover college costs — so you can pursue your education with little to no debt.
Learn More About Paying For CollegeSkills and Interest
What knowledge is essential to bring to the table?
- Computers and Electronics
- Education and Training
- English Language
- Customer and Personal Service
- Telecommunications
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
Investigative
You love figuring out how things work and researching subjects that interest you.
RIASEC represents six broad interest areas—Realistic, Investigative, Artistic, Social, Enterprising, and Conventional—helping individuals identify careers that match their skills and preferences.
Take the RIASEC Test