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For Educators: Military Resources
For Educators: Military Resources

Military Infantry

Median Salary
59,706
Workforce Count
47,504

Overview

What are the responsibilities of this role?

Members of the infantry are ground troops that engage with the enemy in close-range combat. They operate weapons and equipment to engage and destroy enemy ground forces. Being in the infantry is considered to be one of the more physically demanding and psychologically stressful military jobs.

What is the work environment like?

Because the infantry must be prepared to go anywhere in the world they are needed, they work and train in all climates and weather conditions. During training exercises, as in real combat, troops work, eat, and sleep outdoors. Most of the time, however, they work on military bases.

How many people have this role in the Military?

47,504

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.
Learn More About Military Benefits

What is the typical salary range?

Salary by Years of Service

$92,948

2 Years

$69,073

6 Years

$92,948

10+ Years
Median Salary
59,706

Military Details

What Service Branches offer this role?

Learn More About Service Branches

Is this a staff or leadership role?

Enlisted
Officer
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 Paths

What does the training for this role entail?

All enlisted service members 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. While some of the training is in the classroom, most infantry training is in the field under simulated combat conditions. In reality, training for an infantry service member never stops. Infantry service members keep their skills sharp through frequent squad maneuvers, target practice, and war games. War games conducted without live ammunition allow soldiers to practice scouting, troop movement, surprise attack, and capturing techniques.

    Education

    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 College

    Skills and Interest

    What skills will set you up for success?

    Skills

    • Verbal Skills

      Mid

    • Leadership

      Mid

    • Math and Science Skills

      Low

    • Technology Design and Control

      Low

    • Equipment Operation and Maintenance

      Mid

    • Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

      Mid

    What challenges will you likely face in the workplace?

    Workplace

    • Exposure to Job Hazards

      High

    • Physical Activity

      High

    What personality traits help people thrive in this role?

    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

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