Best Careers for Veterans: High-Paying Jobs and Top Opportunities

Transitioning from the military to the civilian workforce can be a challenge, but veterans bring unmatched leadership, discipline, and mission-focused execution—qualities that make them highly valuable across a variety of industries.

One of the highest-paying and most accessible careers for veterans is sales. Whether it’s software sales, cybersecurity sales, medical sales, real estate, or financial services, the ability to build relationships, handle pressure, and execute under stress makes veterans
exceptional in sales.

However, sales isn’t the only option. There are many other high-paying careers, especially in project management, cybersecurity, aviation, and logistics. Below is a breakdown of the top high-paying jobs for veterans that offer financial security and career growth.

Top 10 Highest-Paying Careers for Veterans

Regardless of education level, these careers offer excellent earning potential for military veterans:

1. Sales Professional ($100K+ with commission)

Sales is the #1 career for veterans, offering uncapped earning potential and flexibility. Veterans excel in sales due to their ability to build rapport, handle rejection, and execute strategic communication—skills honed in the military.

Popular sales industries include:

-Software & IT Sales(selling cybersecurity, SaaS, and cloud solutions)

-Medical Sales(selling pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and biotech solutions)

-Real Estate & Mortgage Sales(helping clients buy, sell, or finance homes)

-Financial Services Sales(insurance, wealth management, investment advising)

Many sales professionals easily make six figures, with top performers earning $150K+ per year.

2. Project Manager ($85K - $120K)

If you managed missions, logistics, or teams in the military, project management is a seamless transition. Veterans thrive in this role because they are task-oriented, mission-driven, and adaptable under pressure. Project Managers oversee:

-Sales operations and revenue management

-Construction and engineering projects

-Software development and IT projects

Certifications like PMP (Project Management Professional) can boost earning potential.

3. Cybersecurity Specialist ($90K - $150K)

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest-growing and highest-paying industries. Veterans with backgrounds in IT, intelligence, or signal communications transition well into:

-Cybersecurity analysis(protecting companies from cyber threats)

-Penetration testing(ethical hacking and security assessment)

-Incident response(defending against cyberattacks in real time)

A Security+ or CISSP certification can help veterans enter this high-paying, high-demand field.

4. Business Development Manager ($90K - $150K)

This role focuses on expanding company revenue, forming partnerships, and negotiating contracts. Veterans in sales often transition into business development, where they:

-Negotiate B2B (business-to-business) deals

-Manage enterprise-level client relationships

-Lead teams to expand revenue streams

This field offers high earning potential and leadership opportunities.

5. Supply Chain & Logistics Manager ($85K - $120K)

The military runs global-scale logistics operations, making veterans perfect for supply chain management roles. These jobs involve:

-Managing transportation and warehouse operations

-Optimizing supply chains to improve efficiency

-Overseeing procurement and inventory management

Veterans with experience in logistics, motor transport, or procurement will excel here.

6. Commercial Truck Driver ($70K - $120K with bonuses)

For veterans who prefer independence and travel, trucking is a high-paying option. Many companies offer:

-Signing bonuses and retention incentives

-CDL training programs for veterans

-Owner-operator opportunities with six-figure earning potential

Long-haul trucking and specialized freight hauling pay the most.

7. Law Enforcement & Security Specialist ($60K - $120K)

Many law enforcement agencies and private security firms actively recruit veterans. Those with military police, security, or combat experience can work in:

-Federal law enforcement (FBI, DEA, DHS)

-Private security (executive protection, high-risk security work)

-Security consulting (advising companies on risk management)

This career path offers great benefits and pension plans.

8. Construction Manager ($85K - $125K)

Veterans with engineering, combat engineering, or logistics experience are well-suited for construction management. Roles include:

-Overseeing building projects from start to finish

-Managing contractors and timelines

-Ensuring compliance with safety regulations

A Certified Construction Manager (CCM) credential can increase earning potential.

9. Aviation & Aerospace Technician ($80K - $130K)

For veterans with experience in aviation maintenance, avionics, or piloting, the civilian aviation sector offers high-paying opportunities. Top roles include:

-Aircraft maintenance technician (AMT)

-Avionics technician (electronics & navigation systems expert)

-Air traffic controller (FAA jobs with strong benefits and retirement plans)

Getting an FAA A&P (Airframe & Powerplant) license can greatly boost earning potential.

10. Government & Defense Contractor ($90K - $140K)

Many veterans continue working with the government after service, using their experience to transition into:

-Defense contracting (selling technology, weapons, or services to the military)

-Government consulting (advising on logistics, cybersecurity, or operations)

-Intelligence and national security work

Clearance holders have a major advantage in this industry.

Best Jobs for Veterans Without a Degree

If you don’t have a four-year degree, don’t worry—there are plenty of high-paying careers that value military experience and offer strong growth opportunities.

Trade & Technical Careers ($60K - $120K)

Skilled trades pay well and offer job security. Many companies provide paid apprenticeships for veterans.

-Commercial Truck Driver

-HVAC Technician

-Welding / Machining

-Construction & Heavy Equipment Operator

-Electrician

Sales Careers for Veterans ($80K - $150K with commission)

Sales requires no degree and no cap on earnings, making it a top choice for veterans who want to control their income.

-B2B Sales (Business-to-Business Sales)

-Real Estate Sales

-Insurance Sales

-Medical Device Sales

-Cybersecurity & IT Sales

Veteran-Owned & Veteran-Friendly Companies Hiring Now

Many companies actively seek to hire veterans, especially in sales, tech, logistics, and security industries. Some of the best include:

Amazon (Operations, Supply Chain, Sales)

Boeing & Lockheed Martin (Aerospace & Defense)

Salesforce & Microsoft (Tech & Software Sales)

JP Morgan Chase (Finance & Wealth Management Sales)

General Electric (Engineering & Manufacturing Sales)

Get Started: Secure a High-Paying Job Today

The transition from military to civilian life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Sales Platoon and Skill Bridge Network specialize in helping veterans land
high-paying careers, develop new skills, and connect with top employers.
🚀 Interested in Sales? Join Sales Platoon and learn how to make six figures in sales while leveraging your military discipline and leadership skills.