U.S. MilitaryDepartment of Defense / Cyber Initiative
Cyber Operations Officers
Military Status
Officer
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$86,625
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location.
$22,938 - $263,514
Service Branches
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 operations officers focus on offensive or defensive operations, while others integrate the two to support military operations.
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 communications architecture
Project and contract management
Work Environment
Cyber operations officers work in offices or in command and control centers on land or aboard ships.
Helpful Attributes
Good organizational and management skills
Interest in cyberwarfare/security techniques and strategies
Interest in technical work
Related Civilian Careers
Computer Hardware Engineers
Business Continuity Planners
Career Story
Cyber Operations Officer, Army
Steve says that as a cyber operations officer, he “hunt[s] for people who wish to do harm to the United States on the Internet.”