Explore Careers

Programmers and Developers

Explore Careers

Programmers and Developers

Cybersecurity and Information Technology
Officer Role

Service Branches with this Role

  • Army logo
  • Marines logo
  • Navy logo
  • Air Force logo

What do Programmers and Developers do in the Military?

Computer programmers and developers write, analyze, design, and develop programs that are critical to war-fighting capabilities.

Where do Programmers and Developers work?

Programmers and developers in the military work in offices or at computer sites on military bases or aboard ships.

How much do they make?

Median Military Salary

This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$76,762

Military Salary Range

This is the range based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.


Note that the median salary does not include bonuses, special pays, health or dental benefits — which are a standard part of military compensation.

$24,852 - $320,663

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.

  • Set based on rank and years of service.
  • Paid every month.

Allowances are additional payments to help cover living expenses like housing and food.

  • Tax-free payments.
  • Varies by location and family status.

Special pay provides extra compensation for unique skills, hazardous duties, or challenging assignments.

  • Based on specialized roles.
  • Varies by position and duty.

What training do Programmers and Developers gain in the Military?

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. Job training for programmers and developers 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 content may include:

  • Fiscal and contract management
  • Assessment of computer equipment needs
  • Computer systems development and project management

Military Training for Officers

Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree. All officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.

What skills help Programmers and Developers succeed?

  • Good organizational and management skills
  • Ability to understand and apply math concepts
  • Interest in technical work

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Data Scientists
  • Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
  • Web Developers
  • Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
  • Software Developers
  • Computer Programmers
  • Network and Computer Systems Administrators
  • Database Architects

Interested? Take Your Next Step!