6 Great Jobs for Returning Veterans

Returning home from active duty isn’t always easy. It can take a long time to adjust to your new life, even if it’s a life you’re returning to. One of the hardest parts of becoming a civilian is finding a job. Many veterans often don’t know what to do with themselves, having become so used to serving in the military. If you or someone you know is having a hard time choosing a job after serving, here are some great options to consider.

Operations Manager

The job of an operations manager will vary from place to place, but there are a few qualities that all places have in common. No matter where you are, operations managers are expected to make things run more smoothly, especially between different departments. Many employers are looking for military experience when hiring for these positions, as military members are all about efficiency. As an operations manager you could be managing a store, a business, a plant, or some other kind of facility. Best of all, the number of operations manager positions is expected to grow between 5 and 9 percent by 2026.

Customer Service Representative

Another popular position among ex-military members is that of a customer service representative. Customer service is all about keeping calm under stressful situations and finding a way to be helpful to another person. Find out how tips on service business can give you boost on starting your own. And while customer service is certainly no war-zone, having military experience will likely help you out a lot in customer service situations. Serving in the military is all about helping out your fellow countrymen, and customer service is just a smaller way to do this.

Computer Systems Analyst

A big problem facing this country – and countries all over the world – is the loss of jobs due to automation. Computers are now able to handle a lot of the simpler tasks that used to be done by humans. When searching for a job, you’ll want to keep this in mind to help you prepare for the future. You can do this in two ways.

First, you can get a job involving computers. Since computers are only growing more important, more jobs are opening up with them, such as a Computer Systems Analyst. You may need a bachelor’s degree, but some places will accept life experience and training – such as the kind you get in the military.

You should also keep the rise of automation in mind whenever you’re considering another type of job. If there’s a chance a computer can do it within a few years, you’re more likely to lose that job eventually. Look for jobs that are harder to automate for long term security.

Sales Representative

One of the defining qualities of many service members is the ability to motivate themselves. As a veteran, you likely have a drive that you aren’t fulfilling now that you’re out of the service. This drive makes you a perfect fit for sales. Sales representatives are all about motivating themselves to bring in more sales. Sales reps also need great communication skills and confidence, something many military members leave the service with.

Teacher

This country always needs more good teachers. Teaching is another great way to give back to your community while influencing the next generation. Schools love hiring people with great communication skills, leadership qualities, and a diverse background. With your military experience and degree in teaching you should have no trouble landing a job at any school of your choice.

Construction Work

Finally, if you enjoy working with your hands, consider getting a construction job. This is another job that won’t be easily automated. People will be performing the tough task of building things for a long time to come, so you won’t have to worry too much about a computer taking your job. To get a job in construction you’ll likely need a high school diploma and some on-the-job training. You may also need to get some special certifications, like an online forklift certification. Construction is a tough job, but it often pays well and comes with a great sense of satisfaction after seeing the final product.

Find a Job That Suits Your Skills

Returning veterans come home with many new skills. What you need to do is think about which of these skills you want to use and then how you want to use them. Employers love hiring veterans, as they work in a professional and efficient manner. Hopefully this guide was able to give you some ideas on the types of jobs out there, and before long you’ll land in a job you love.