Service Branches
Work Environment
Cyber-operations officers work in offices or in command and control centers on land or aboard ships.
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Military Status
Officer
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Average Military Salary
$86,625
Overview
Cyber operations officers oversee both offensive and defensive cyberspace operations in support of the full range of military programs. Offensive operations involve the application of computer capabilities to target the capabilities of enemies and hostile adversaries. Defensive operations involve protecting data, networks, net-centric capabilities, and other designated systems. Some cyber officers focus on offensive or defensive operations, while others integrate the two to support military operations.
Military Training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Cyber operations officers may have an education in computer science or a related field. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. In addition, cyber operations officers receive specialized training, both on-the-job and in the classroom. Job-specific training content may include:
- Team leadership
- Analyzing information
- Preparing technical products
- Planning and systems employment for DoD information networks
- Defensive cyberspace operations
- Advanced communication architectures
- Project and contract management
Helpful Attributes
- Good organizational and management skills
- Interest in cyber warfare/security techniques and strategies
- Interest in technical work
Related Civilian Careers
- Computer Hardware Engineers
- Business Continuity Planners
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