For Educators: Military Resources
Military Health Scientists
Median Salary
79,319
Workforce Count
940
Overview
What are the responsibilities of this role?
The Military invests in health science research and supports the investigation of various stimuli on human physical reactions, and the impact of various microorganisms and parasites on human health. Health scientists are responsible for performing research in the biomedical field and directing quality assurance programs to promote human health and prevent illness and foodborne diseases.
What is the work environment like?
Life scientists work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories and, at times, in food processing or storage plants. They may work outdoors while conducting field work on land or aboard ships.
How many people have this role in the Military?
940
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
$122,252
2 Years
$69,419
6 Years
$122,252
10+ Years
Median Salary
Military Details
Is this a staff or leadership role?
Officers are service members who plan, direct operations and manage enlisted personnel, developing a broad range of leadership-related skills.
Learn More About Enlisted and Officer PathsWhat does the training for this role entail?
Job training for life scientists primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training may include:
- Altitude physiology
- Aero medical aspects of flight
- Sensory physiology
- Emergency egress
- Water survival
- Life support systems
Education
What level of education do professionals in this role have?
Which college majors best prepare you for this role?
- Environmental Science
- Geography and Environmental Studies
- Environmental Studies
- Sustainability Studies
- Environmental Toxicology
- Marine Sciences
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Environmental Geosciences
- Environmental Chemistry
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?
- English Language
- Administrative
- Biology
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
What personality traits help people thrive in this role?
Investigative
You love figuring out how things work and researching subjects that interest you.
Realistic
You love hands-on work and solving practical problems — like fixing things and building stuff.
Conventional
You like structure, staying organized, and working with systems to get things done efficiently.
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