0331 Machine Gunner to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

0331 Machine Gunners get told there are no civilian machine gunner jobs. No shit. But you've got crew-served weapons expertise, team leadership, equipment accountability, attention to detail under pressure, and the discipline to execute complex procedures—skills that translate directly to law enforcement, security, corrections, skilled trades, and federal protective services. Realistic first-year salaries range from $45,000-$65,000, with experienced professionals hitting $85,000+ in law enforcement, federal positions, or contractor work. You'll need some certs and maybe an associate's degree, but your Marine training is the foundation.

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 0331 who starts researching civilian careers gets hit with the same reality: "There's no civilian job for machine gunners." Obviously. No company needs someone to run belt-fed weapons systems.

Here's what that misses: you weren't just pulling triggers on a crew-served weapon.

You:

Led a gun team of 3-4 Marines in combat operations
Maintained accountability for $150,000+ in weapons systems and optics
Executed complex fire support plans with 10+ coordinated steps
Made split-second decisions on fields of fire and target priorities
Conducted preventive maintenance on complex mechanical systems
Worked in all weather conditions maintaining peak readiness
Qualified expert with multiple weapons systems
Followed strict safety and engagement protocols

That's team leadership, equipment management, technical proficiency, stress management, and operational discipline. Those skills have real value in the civilian world. You just need to translate them into language HR understands, and target industries that actually need them.

Best civilian career paths for 0331

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 0331s consistently land, with current 2025 salary data.

Law enforcement (most common path)

Civilian job titles:

Police officer
Deputy sheriff
State trooper
Federal law enforcement (CBP, ICE, USMS, ATF)
Campus police / transit police
Conservation officer

Salary ranges:

Entry-level municipal police: $48,000-$62,000
State trooper: $67,000-$70,000 (academy pay)
Federal agent (GS-7 to GS-9 entry): $56,000-$79,000
Experienced officer (5+ years): $70,000-$90,000
Federal senior agent (GS-12+): $90,000-$115,000+

What translates directly:

Weapons proficiency with multiple systems
High-stress decision making under pressure
Following rules of engagement / use of force policies
Writing detailed after-action reports
Shift work and irregular hours
Physical fitness standards
Team coordination and communication

Certifications needed:

Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification—required for most state/local police. Usually earned through police academy after hire (4-6 months, department pays).
Driver's license (clean record strongly preferred)
Associate's degree in Criminal Justice—increasingly required by competitive departments
Physical fitness test (your PT scores translate)

Reality check: The hiring process takes time. Background checks, polygraph, psychological evaluation, medical screening—plan on 6-12 months from application to academy start. Some departments have waiting lists.

Veterans preference applies for federal positions and many state/local departments. Your Marine Corps background is a significant advantage.

Multiple agencies are actively recruiting veterans. CBP was recognized as a top employer for veterans in 2025, with 28.2% of their workforce being veterans.

Best for: 0331s who want structure, clear chain of command, serve-your-community mission, and benefits similar to the military.

Private security and protective services

Civilian job titles:

Armed security officer
Security supervisor / operations manager
Executive protection specialist
Corporate security manager
Security contractor (OCONUS)
Loss prevention manager

Salary ranges:

Entry-level armed security: $38,000-$45,000
Security supervisor: $50,000-$62,000
Executive protection specialist: $60,000-$95,000
Corporate security manager: $75,000-$95,000
Overseas security contractor: $80,000-$150,000+

What translates directly:

Weapons proficiency and handling
Situational awareness and threat assessment
Patrol and surveillance procedures
Access control and perimeter security
Emergency response protocols
Working rotating shifts

Certifications needed:

State security guard license (requirements vary by state, typically $100-500 and 1-2 weeks)
Armed security certification (additional firearms qualification beyond basic license)
Concealed carry permit (for some EP roles)
First aid/CPR/AED
Executive protection training (if targeting bodyguard work—ESI, EPI, or similar programs)

Reality check: Entry-level armed security doesn't pay great. It's a stepping stone. The real money is in executive protection for high-net-worth individuals or corporate security management positions.

Maritime security (protecting ships from piracy) starts around $80,000 per year. Overseas security contracting can hit six figures but requires willingness to deploy to hostile environments.

If you go the EP route, expect 60-80 hour weeks, constant travel, and being on-call 24/7. But $100K+ is achievable within 3-5 years with the right network and reputation.

Best for: 0331s who want to work armed roles immediately without a long academy, or those willing to grind toward high-end protective services.

Corrections and detention

Civilian job titles:

Correctional officer (state prison)
Federal Bureau of Prisons officer
Detention officer (county jail)
Juvenile corrections officer

Salary ranges:

State correctional officer: $42,000-$55,000
Federal BOP (entry): $57,000-$60,000
Experienced officer: $60,000-$75,000
Supervisory positions: $75,000-$90,000+

What translates directly:

Following strict procedures and protocols
Maintaining accountability (headcounts, movement logs, equipment)
High-stress environment management
De-escalation and verbal communication
Shift work tolerance
Physical fitness and defensive tactics

Certifications needed:

State corrections training academy (usually 6-12 weeks, often paid during training)
High school diploma minimum (associate's degree preferred for federal)
Physical fitness standards (you'll crush these)
Background check and security clearance

Reality check: Corrections work is demanding. You're managing inmates daily, not standing post. Verbal confrontations are constant, physical altercations happen, and the environment is stressful.

But: hiring is faster than police departments, veteran preference applies, federal BOP offers excellent benefits with law enforcement retirement (can retire at 50 with 20 years), and overtime opportunities significantly boost take-home pay.

Federal BOP raised base salaries by $2,000 in February 2024 to address staffing shortages. Many facilities are actively hiring veterans.

Many 0331s use corrections as a bridge job while waiting for police academy slots or building credentials for other law enforcement careers.

Best for: 0331s who need steady income quickly and can handle high-stress environments while planning next career moves.

Federal security and protective services

Civilian job titles:

TSA officer
Customs and Border Protection officer
Federal Protective Service officer
VA police officer
DoD security specialist / police

Salary ranges:

TSA officer (entry): $42,000-$50,000
CBP officer (GS-7 to GS-9): $56,000-$79,000
VA police officer: $71,000-$106,000
Federal Protective Service: $55,000-$85,000
Mid-career federal security (GS-9 to GS-11): $70,000-$90,000

What translates directly:

Security procedures and protocols
Following federal regulations
Equipment accountability
Customer service under stress
Access control and screening
Threat assessment

Certifications needed:

Federal background check and clearance (standard process)
Role-specific training (provided after hire)
Physical fitness standards (for uniformed positions)

Reality check: Federal jobs provide job security, benefits, pension, and a clear GS pay scale with annual step increases. Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points in the federal hiring process.

TSA has officially aligned pay with the GS scale as of 2023. VA police officer positions specifically target veterans and offer salaries competitive with municipal police.

The work isn't high-speed. TSA screens passengers. CBP officers inspect cargo and travelers. But it's stable employment with federal benefits and promotion potential.

Age restrictions for federal law enforcement (typically under 40) are waived for veterans with preference eligibility.

Best for: 0331s who want federal job security, benefits, and retirement more than high-excitement work.

Skilled trades (underrated path)

Civilian job titles:

Electrician
HVAC technician
Plumber
Heavy equipment operator
Utility lineman
Industrial mechanic

Salary ranges:

Apprentice (year 1-2): $35,000-$45,000
Journeyman tradesman: $60,000-$75,000
Master electrician / specialized trades: $75,000-$95,000
Union lineman: $85,000-$120,000+ (with overtime)

What translates directly:

Attention to detail and following technical procedures
Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
Working in adverse weather conditions
Tool accountability and preventive maintenance
Safety-first culture
Physical stamina and manual labor

Certifications needed:

Trade-specific apprenticeship (2-5 years depending on trade)
State licensing (required for electrician, plumber, HVAC in most states)
OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification
CDL (for some equipment operator roles)

Reality check: Trades require multi-year apprenticeships before reaching journeyman wages. But the path is clear, demand is consistently high, and these jobs can't be outsourced.

GI Bill covers many apprenticeship programs. You receive wages while learning (starting around $35K-$45K), and benefits help with living expenses. Local unions often have veteran recruitment programs.

The median electrician salary is $62,350, but union electricians in major metros can exceed $100K with overtime. Lineman work is particularly lucrative—utility companies are desperate for qualified workers.

Long-term earning potential is strong, job security is excellent, and you're not stuck behind a desk.

Best for: 0331s who prefer hands-on technical work, don't want an office job, and are willing to invest 2-4 years in apprenticeship for a solid long-term career.

Private military contracting

Civilian job titles:

Security contractor (overseas)
Static security specialist
Personal security detail (PSD)
Security operations manager
Training instructor

Salary ranges:

Entry-level OCONUS security: $75,000-$95,000
PSD contractor: $95,000-$140,000
High-threat environment contractor: $130,000-$200,000+

What translates directly: Everything. You're doing military-adjacent work in a contractor capacity.

Certifications needed:

Secret or Top Secret clearance (huge advantage if you held one)
High Threat Personal Security Detail training (PSD course)
Advanced weapons certifications
Combat lifesaver or EMT (not required but highly valued)
Recent deployment experience

Reality check: Contracting is demanding work. You're pulling 12+ hour shifts, 6-7 days per week, often in dangerous locations. But the money is legitimate.

Work is contract-based and cyclical. You might work 6-9 months, then have 2-3 months off (unpaid). Not a sustainable long-term career for most, but a way to bank serious money in your 20s and early 30s.

The post-9/11 contracting boom has cooled. Jobs still exist in Africa, Middle East, and other regions, but competition is higher and contracts are shorter than 10-15 years ago.

Marine infantry background is valued. 0331s with recent combat deployments and clean records are competitive candidates.

Best for: Young 0331s with recent deployments, security clearances, and willingness to work overseas in austere/hostile environments for significant compensation.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Machine Gunner" on civilian resumes. HR departments have no idea what that means. Here's how to translate your 0331 experience:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
Gun team leader	Led team of 3-4 personnel in high-pressure operations
Crew-served weapons operator	Operated and maintained complex mechanical weapons systems
Equipment maintenance	Performed preventive maintenance on systems valued at $150,000+
Ammunition accountability	Managed inventory control for high-value materials and equipment
Fields of fire planning	Analyzed terrain and coordinated tactical positioning
Qualified expert marksman	Weapons proficiency with pistol, rifle, and crew-served systems
Conducted security patrols	Executed security operations and surveillance activities
Shift work / post operations	24/7 operational availability; worked rotating schedules
Battle drills and SOPs	Executed complex multi-step procedures under pressure
After-action reports	Documented operations with detailed written reports

Use active verbs: Led, Operated, Maintained, Coordinated, Executed, Supervised, Managed.

Use numbers: "Led team of 4," "Maintained $150K equipment inventory," "Conducted 200+ security patrols."

Drop the jargon. No civilian knows what SOP, TTP, METL, or FRAG-O means. Translate it into plain English or skip it entirely.

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time, money, and GI Bill benefits:

High priority (get these):

Associate's degree in Criminal Justice - Opens doors in law enforcement, corrections, federal protective services. Required or strongly preferred by most competitive police departments. Many community colleges have veteran-friendly programs and online options. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Required by most departments.

EMT certification - Basic EMT makes you more competitive in law enforcement, federal agencies, and security contracting. Also a standalone career option. Cost: $1,000-$2,000 (GI Bill covers at many programs). Time: 6 months part-time. Value: High for law enforcement and contracting.

State security guard / armed guard license - Required to work armed security in any capacity. Varies by state but typically straightforward. Cost: $100-$500. Time: 1-2 weeks. Value: Required for private security work.

POST / Police academy - Required for law enforcement. Usually completed after hiring (department pays for it). Time: 4-6 months full-time. Value: Required for police careers.

Medium priority (if it fits your career path):

Executive protection training - If targeting high-end bodyguard or personal security work. Companies like ESI, EPI, or ICON offer 1-2 week intensive courses. Cost: $2,500-$5,000. Value: Increases marketability for EP roles and corporate security management.

CDL (Commercial Driver's License) - Opens trucking, heavy equipment operation, and some security transport roles. Demand is consistently high. Cost: $3,000-$7,000 for training programs. Starting pay: $45K-$55K. GI Bill covers many programs.

Trade apprenticeship - Electrician, plumber, HVAC, lineman. GI Bill covers apprenticeships in most states. Time: 2-5 years. Long-term earning potential: Excellent ($75K-$120K+).

First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor - If interested in training or emergency services. Cost: $300-$800. Time: 2-3 days. Value: Good for resume building.

Lower priority (nice to have, not critical):

Project Management Professional (PMP) - If pivoting to corporate project management. Requires 3 years documented experience. Cost: $800-$3,000 for exam prep and certification. Value: Medium for non-tactical careers.

Personal trainer certification - If fitness is your passion and you want a side income or career shift. Cost: $500-$1,500. Typical income: $35K-$55K unless you build a client base or business.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be real. There are civilian skills you probably don't have yet. Recognizing the gap is the first step to filling it.

Computer skills: If your computer experience is PowerPoint briefs and signing in to MCTIMS, you're behind. Most civilian jobs require Microsoft Office proficiency (Word, Excel, Outlook), email etiquette, and basic database entry. Take free online courses through LinkedIn Learning or YouTube. Learn Excel basics at minimum.

Customer service and de-escalation: Marines are trained to be aggressive and project dominance. Civilian law enforcement, security, and corrections require verbal de-escalation and customer service skills. You'll need to adjust your communication style significantly. Many police academies teach this, but start thinking about it now.

Resume and interview skills: Writing civilian resumes and interviewing for non-military jobs is completely different from military evaluations. Use the Military Transition Toolkit to translate your MOS experience into civilian-friendly language that HR understands.

Patience with bureaucracy: Think Marine Corps paperwork was bad? Civilian HR is worse. Background checks take 3-6 months. Hiring processes are painfully slow. Stay patient and keep applying to multiple positions simultaneously.

Civilian workplace culture: The civilian workplace doesn't operate like the Marines. Chain of command is less rigid, communication is less direct, and standards vary widely. Expect culture shock and give yourself time to adjust.

Real 0331 success stories

Tyler, 27, former 0331 gun team leader → State Trooper

After 5 years and two deployments, Tyler got out as a Corporal. He used his GI Bill to earn an associate's degree in criminal justice while working armed security part-time ($42K/year). Applied to state police in three states, got two offers. Now earns $68,000 as a trooper in Arkansas with full benefits, on track for $80K+ within 5 years. "The academy was easier than SOI. Best decision I made."

Chris, 29, former 0331 section leader → Corporate Security Manager

Chris did 6 years, got out as a Sergeant. Started in entry-level armed security ($38K), got EP training, worked executive protection for 2 years ($75K), then moved into corporate security management. Now makes $88,000 managing security for a Fortune 500 company. "My Marine leadership experience got me promoted faster than anyone else."

Jason, 32, former 0331 → Union Electrician

Jason wanted nothing to do with security or law enforcement after the Marines. Joined an IBEW apprenticeship using his GI Bill benefits. Took 4 years to complete his journeyman certification while earning wages ($38K-$55K during apprenticeship). Now makes $94,000 as a union electrician with benefits and pension. "Harder than I expected, but I'll never worry about finding work."

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do after terminal leave:

Month 1: Assessment and foundation

Get 10 certified copies of your DD-214 (you'll need them)
File for VA disability if you haven't already
Update your resume using Military Transition Toolkit
Create a LinkedIn profile (professional photo, detailed work history)
Research 3-5 career paths that interest you
Reach out to other Marines who've transitioned successfully

Month 2: Certifications and applications

Enroll in Criminal Justice program or EMT course (if going law enforcement)
Get your state security license (if going security/contracting route)
Apply to 10-15 jobs per week (quantity matters early on)
Attend job fairs (bring multiple resumes, dress business professional)
Connect with veteran organizations and networking groups in your area
Practice translating your military experience in civilian terms

Month 3: Interviews and momentum

Tailor your resume for each specific application
Practice interview questions focusing on leadership, problem-solving, teamwork
Follow up on all applications after 1-2 weeks
Network with veterans in your target field (LinkedIn, veteran groups)
Consider temporary or contract work if you haven't landed permanent position yet
Stay physically fit and maintain professional appearance

Bottom line for 0331s

Your Machine Gunner experience isn't worthless. It's a foundation.

You've proven you can lead small teams under extreme pressure, maintain complex equipment, execute detailed procedures, and stay disciplined in chaotic environments. Those skills translate to civilian careers—you just need to articulate them in language civilians understand, target the right industries, and get specific certifications to check hiring boxes.

Law enforcement, security, corrections, federal protective services, and skilled trades are proven paths. Thousands of 0331s have successfully transitioned before you. You're not starting from scratch.

First-year income of $45K-$65K is realistic for most paths. Within 5 years, $75K-$90K+ is achievable if you stay focused, build credentials, and develop your career strategically.

Don't listen to anyone who says machine gunners have no civilian skills. They don't understand what you actually did.

Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to translate your MOS skills, research salary ranges, and track your certifications.

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

Every 0331 who starts researching civilian careers gets hit with the same reality: "There's no civilian job for machine gunners." Obviously. No company needs someone to run belt-fed weapons systems.

Here's what that misses: you weren't just pulling triggers on a crew-served weapon.

You:

Led a gun team of 3-4 Marines in combat operations
Maintained accountability for $150,000+ in weapons systems and optics
Executed complex fire support plans with 10+ coordinated steps
Made split-second decisions on fields of fire and target priorities
Conducted preventive maintenance on complex mechanical systems
Worked in all weather conditions maintaining peak readiness
Qualified expert with multiple weapons systems
Followed strict safety and engagement protocols

Best civilian career paths for 0331

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where 0331s consistently land, with current 2025 salary data.

Law enforcement (most common path)

Civilian job titles:

Police officer
Deputy sheriff
State trooper
Federal law enforcement (CBP, ICE, USMS, ATF)
Campus police / transit police
Conservation officer

Salary ranges:

Entry-level municipal police: $48,000-$62,000
State trooper: $67,000-$70,000 (academy pay)
Federal agent (GS-7 to GS-9 entry): $56,000-$79,000
Experienced officer (5+ years): $70,000-$90,000
Federal senior agent (GS-12+): $90,000-$115,000+

What translates directly:

Weapons proficiency with multiple systems
High-stress decision making under pressure
Following rules of engagement / use of force policies
Writing detailed after-action reports
Shift work and irregular hours
Physical fitness standards
Team coordination and communication

Certifications needed:

Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) certification—required for most state/local police. Usually earned through police academy after hire (4-6 months, department pays).
Driver's license (clean record strongly preferred)
Associate's degree in Criminal Justice—increasingly required by competitive departments
Physical fitness test (your PT scores translate)

Veterans preference applies for federal positions and many state/local departments. Your Marine Corps background is a significant advantage.

Multiple agencies are actively recruiting veterans. CBP was recognized as a top employer for veterans in 2025, with 28.2% of their workforce being veterans.

Best for: 0331s who want structure, clear chain of command, serve-your-community mission, and benefits similar to the military.

Private security and protective services

Civilian job titles:

Armed security officer
Security supervisor / operations manager
Executive protection specialist
Corporate security manager
Security contractor (OCONUS)
Loss prevention manager

Salary ranges:

Entry-level armed security: $38,000-$45,000
Security supervisor: $50,000-$62,000
Executive protection specialist: $60,000-$95,000
Corporate security manager: $75,000-$95,000
Overseas security contractor: $80,000-$150,000+

What translates directly:

Weapons proficiency and handling
Situational awareness and threat assessment
Patrol and surveillance procedures
Access control and perimeter security
Emergency response protocols
Working rotating shifts

Certifications needed:

State security guard license (requirements vary by state, typically $100-500 and 1-2 weeks)
Armed security certification (additional firearms qualification beyond basic license)
Concealed carry permit (for some EP roles)
First aid/CPR/AED
Executive protection training (if targeting bodyguard work—ESI, EPI, or similar programs)

Maritime security (protecting ships from piracy) starts around $80,000 per year. Overseas security contracting can hit six figures but requires willingness to deploy to hostile environments.

If you go the EP route, expect 60-80 hour weeks, constant travel, and being on-call 24/7. But $100K+ is achievable within 3-5 years with the right network and reputation.

Best for: 0331s who want to work armed roles immediately without a long academy, or those willing to grind toward high-end protective services.

Corrections and detention

Civilian job titles:

Correctional officer (state prison)
Federal Bureau of Prisons officer
Detention officer (county jail)
Juvenile corrections officer

Salary ranges:

State correctional officer: $42,000-$55,000
Federal BOP (entry): $57,000-$60,000
Experienced officer: $60,000-$75,000
Supervisory positions: $75,000-$90,000+

What translates directly:

Following strict procedures and protocols
Maintaining accountability (headcounts, movement logs, equipment)
High-stress environment management
De-escalation and verbal communication
Shift work tolerance
Physical fitness and defensive tactics

Certifications needed:

State corrections training academy (usually 6-12 weeks, often paid during training)
High school diploma minimum (associate's degree preferred for federal)
Physical fitness standards (you'll crush these)
Background check and security clearance

Reality check: Corrections work is demanding. You're managing inmates daily, not standing post. Verbal confrontations are constant, physical altercations happen, and the environment is stressful.

Federal BOP raised base salaries by $2,000 in February 2024 to address staffing shortages. Many facilities are actively hiring veterans.

Many 0331s use corrections as a bridge job while waiting for police academy slots or building credentials for other law enforcement careers.

Best for: 0331s who need steady income quickly and can handle high-stress environments while planning next career moves.

Federal security and protective services

Civilian job titles:

TSA officer
Customs and Border Protection officer
Federal Protective Service officer
VA police officer
DoD security specialist / police

Salary ranges:

TSA officer (entry): $42,000-$50,000
CBP officer (GS-7 to GS-9): $56,000-$79,000
VA police officer: $71,000-$106,000
Federal Protective Service: $55,000-$85,000
Mid-career federal security (GS-9 to GS-11): $70,000-$90,000

What translates directly:

Security procedures and protocols
Following federal regulations
Equipment accountability
Customer service under stress
Access control and screening
Threat assessment

Certifications needed:

Federal background check and clearance (standard process)
Role-specific training (provided after hire)
Physical fitness standards (for uniformed positions)

Reality check: Federal jobs provide job security, benefits, pension, and a clear GS pay scale with annual step increases. Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points in the federal hiring process.

TSA has officially aligned pay with the GS scale as of 2023. VA police officer positions specifically target veterans and offer salaries competitive with municipal police.

The work isn't high-speed. TSA screens passengers. CBP officers inspect cargo and travelers. But it's stable employment with federal benefits and promotion potential.

Age restrictions for federal law enforcement (typically under 40) are waived for veterans with preference eligibility.

Best for: 0331s who want federal job security, benefits, and retirement more than high-excitement work.

Skilled trades (underrated path)

Civilian job titles:

Electrician
HVAC technician
Plumber
Heavy equipment operator
Utility lineman
Industrial mechanic

Salary ranges:

Apprentice (year 1-2): $35,000-$45,000
Journeyman tradesman: $60,000-$75,000
Master electrician / specialized trades: $75,000-$95,000
Union lineman: $85,000-$120,000+ (with overtime)

What translates directly:

Attention to detail and following technical procedures
Equipment maintenance and troubleshooting
Working in adverse weather conditions
Tool accountability and preventive maintenance
Safety-first culture
Physical stamina and manual labor

Certifications needed:

Trade-specific apprenticeship (2-5 years depending on trade)
State licensing (required for electrician, plumber, HVAC in most states)
OSHA 10 or 30-hour safety certification
CDL (for some equipment operator roles)

Reality check: Trades require multi-year apprenticeships before reaching journeyman wages. But the path is clear, demand is consistently high, and these jobs can't be outsourced.

Long-term earning potential is strong, job security is excellent, and you're not stuck behind a desk.

Best for: 0331s who prefer hands-on technical work, don't want an office job, and are willing to invest 2-4 years in apprenticeship for a solid long-term career.

Private military contracting

Civilian job titles:

Security contractor (overseas)
Static security specialist
Personal security detail (PSD)
Security operations manager
Training instructor

Salary ranges:

Entry-level OCONUS security: $75,000-$95,000
PSD contractor: $95,000-$140,000
High-threat environment contractor: $130,000-$200,000+

What translates directly: Everything. You're doing military-adjacent work in a contractor capacity.

Certifications needed:

Secret or Top Secret clearance (huge advantage if you held one)
High Threat Personal Security Detail training (PSD course)
Advanced weapons certifications
Combat lifesaver or EMT (not required but highly valued)
Recent deployment experience

Reality check: Contracting is demanding work. You're pulling 12+ hour shifts, 6-7 days per week, often in dangerous locations. But the money is legitimate.

The post-9/11 contracting boom has cooled. Jobs still exist in Africa, Middle East, and other regions, but competition is higher and contracts are shorter than 10-15 years ago.

Marine infantry background is valued. 0331s with recent combat deployments and clean records are competitive candidates.

Best for: Young 0331s with recent deployments, security clearances, and willingness to work overseas in austere/hostile environments for significant compensation.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Machine Gunner" on civilian resumes. HR departments have no idea what that means. Here's how to translate your 0331 experience:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
Gun team leader	Led team of 3-4 personnel in high-pressure operations
Crew-served weapons operator	Operated and maintained complex mechanical weapons systems
Equipment maintenance	Performed preventive maintenance on systems valued at $150,000+
Ammunition accountability	Managed inventory control for high-value materials and equipment
Fields of fire planning	Analyzed terrain and coordinated tactical positioning
Qualified expert marksman	Weapons proficiency with pistol, rifle, and crew-served systems
Conducted security patrols	Executed security operations and surveillance activities
Shift work / post operations	24/7 operational availability; worked rotating schedules
Battle drills and SOPs	Executed complex multi-step procedures under pressure
After-action reports	Documented operations with detailed written reports

Use active verbs: Led, Operated, Maintained, Coordinated, Executed, Supervised, Managed.

Use numbers: "Led team of 4," "Maintained $150K equipment inventory," "Conducted 200+ security patrols."

Drop the jargon. No civilian knows what SOP, TTP, METL, or FRAG-O means. Translate it into plain English or skip it entirely.

Certifications that actually matter

Here's what's worth your time, money, and GI Bill benefits:

High priority (get these):

POST / Police academy - Required for law enforcement. Usually completed after hiring (department pays for it). Time: 4-6 months full-time. Value: Required for police careers.

Medium priority (if it fits your career path):

Trade apprenticeship - Electrician, plumber, HVAC, lineman. GI Bill covers apprenticeships in most states. Time: 2-5 years. Long-term earning potential: Excellent ($75K-$120K+).

First Aid/CPR/AED Instructor - If interested in training or emergency services. Cost: $300-$800. Time: 2-3 days. Value: Good for resume building.

Lower priority (nice to have, not critical):

Personal trainer certification - If fitness is your passion and you want a side income or career shift. Cost: $500-$1,500. Typical income: $35K-$55K unless you build a client base or business.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be real. There are civilian skills you probably don't have yet. Recognizing the gap is the first step to filling it.

Real 0331 success stories

Tyler, 27, former 0331 gun team leader → State Trooper

Chris, 29, former 0331 section leader → Corporate Security Manager

Jason, 32, former 0331 → Union Electrician

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do after terminal leave:

Month 1: Assessment and foundation

Get 10 certified copies of your DD-214 (you'll need them)
File for VA disability if you haven't already
Update your resume using Military Transition Toolkit
Create a LinkedIn profile (professional photo, detailed work history)
Research 3-5 career paths that interest you
Reach out to other Marines who've transitioned successfully

Month 2: Certifications and applications

Enroll in Criminal Justice program or EMT course (if going law enforcement)
Get your state security license (if going security/contracting route)
Apply to 10-15 jobs per week (quantity matters early on)
Attend job fairs (bring multiple resumes, dress business professional)
Connect with veteran organizations and networking groups in your area
Practice translating your military experience in civilian terms

Month 3: Interviews and momentum

Tailor your resume for each specific application
Practice interview questions focusing on leadership, problem-solving, teamwork
Follow up on all applications after 1-2 weeks
Network with veterans in your target field (LinkedIn, veteran groups)
Consider temporary or contract work if you haven't landed permanent position yet
Stay physically fit and maintain professional appearance

Bottom line for 0331s

Your Machine Gunner experience isn't worthless. It's a foundation.

First-year income of $45K-$65K is realistic for most paths. Within 5 years, $75K-$90K+ is achievable if you stay focused, build credentials, and develop your career strategically.

Don't listen to anyone who says machine gunners have no civilian skills. They don't understand what you actually did.

Ready to build your transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to translate your MOS skills, research salary ranges, and track your certifications.