Explore Careers

Cyber-Operations Officers

Explore Careers

Cyber-Operations Officers

Cybersecurity and Information Technology
Officer Role

Service Branches with this Role

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What do Cyber-Operations Officers do in the Military?

Cyber-operations officers develop and oversee both offensive and defensive cyberspace capabilities in support of the full range of military programs.

Where do Cyber-Operations Officers work?

Cyber-operations officers work in offices or in command and control centers on land 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.

$91,255

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.

$24,286 - $356,274

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 Cyber-Operations Officers 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. 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

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 Cyber-Operations Officers succeed?

  • Good organizational and management skills
  • Interest in cyber warfare/security techniques and strategies
  • Interest in technical work

What are possible career paths after the Military?

  • Intelligence Analysts
  • Computer Systems Engineers/Architects
  • Digital Forensics Analysts
  • Information Security Engineers
  • Web Administrators
  • Computer Programmers
  • Network and Computer Systems Administrators
  • Telecommunications Engineering Specialists

Interested? Take Your Next Step!