0351 Infantry Assaultman to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

0351 Infantry Assaultmen (now reclassified as 0311 Riflemen as of 2020) developed demolitions expertise, breaching operations, explosives handling, rocket systems proficiency, precision under pressure, and the ability to execute complex technical procedures with zero error margin—skills that translate directly to EOD work, blasting careers (mining/quarry/construction), law enforcement (especially SWAT/tactical teams), security, corrections, and skilled trades. Realistic first-year salaries range from $45,000-$67,000, with experienced professionals hitting $90,000-$120,000+ in civilian EOD, commercial blasting, federal law enforcement, or overseas contracting. You'll need specific certifications and possibly a degree, but your demolitions and breaching experience is a specialized foundation.

Let's address the elephant in the room

The Marine Corps phased out MOS 0351 Infantry Assaultman in October 2020, reclassifying everyone as 0311 Riflemen. Combat engineers now handle breaching and demolition duties in rifle companies.

If you held the 0351 MOS, you might feel like your specialized training was wasted. Here's the truth: your demolitions and breaching experience is actually valuable in multiple civilian sectors.

You weren't just "blowing stuff up." You:

Calculated demolition charges for structural breaching with mathematical precision
Handled explosives (C4, TNT, det cord) following strict safety protocols
Operated rocket systems (SMAW, AT-4) requiring technical proficiency
Employed APOBS (Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System) in complex scenarios
Led assault teams through high-risk breaching operations
Maintained accountability for Class V (explosives) with zero tolerance for error
Made real-time decisions about charge placement, blast radius, and safety distances
Executed multi-step demolition procedures under extreme pressure
Trained other Marines on explosives safety and employment

That's technical expertise with explosives, mathematical calculations, precision operations, safety management, team leadership, and stress tolerance. Those skills translate to legitimate civilian careers in commercial blasting, EOD, law enforcement, mining, construction, and more.

Best civilian career paths for 0351

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where former 0351s successfully land, with current 2025 salary data.

Commercial blasting and explosives work (highest skills match)

Civilian job titles:

Blaster (mining, quarry, construction)
Explosives worker
Blast crew supervisor
Powder technician
Demolition specialist
Rock blasting technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level blaster: $45,000-$55,000
Experienced blaster: $57,000-$75,000
Blast supervisor / powder foreman: $70,000-$90,000
Senior blaster / project manager: $85,000-$110,000

What translates directly:

Explosives handling and safety protocols
Calculating charges, blast radius, and timing
Understanding of demolition principles
Following strict safety procedures
Equipment accountability
Working in hazardous environments
Technical precision with zero error tolerance

Certifications needed:

State blaster license (required in most states—requirements vary significantly)
Federal blaster certification (from Office of Surface Mining for coal mining—good nationwide credential)
MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) training (if working in mining sector)
OSHA explosives handling certification
1+ year documented experience under licensed blaster (required for licensure in most states)

Reality check: This is the most direct translation of your 0351 skills. Mining, quarrying, construction, and demolition companies need trained blasters. Your military demolitions training is a massive advantage—many employers specifically seek veterans with explosives experience.

Entry process: Most companies hire you as an explosives helper/trainee while you document experience hours under a licensed blaster (typically 1 year required), then you test for your state blaster license.

Major employers: Orica, Dyno Nobel, Austin Powder Company, Vulcan Materials, Martin Marietta, local quarry operations, construction firms.

Work is often remote (mine sites, quarries, construction sites), physical, and weather-dependent. But demand is consistent and pay is solid.

Best for: Former 0351s who want to directly use their demolitions training and don't mind physical outdoor work in industrial settings.

EOD and UXO (unexploded ordnance) remediation

Civilian job titles:

EOD technician (civilian)
UXO technician
Explosive ordnance disposal specialist
Munitions response specialist
Range clearance technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level UXO tech: $55,000-$70,000
Experienced EOD technician: $75,000-$95,000
Senior EOD specialist: $95,000-$120,000+
Overseas UXO contractor: $100,000-$180,000

What translates directly:

Explosives identification and handling
Safety protocols with ordnance
Working under high-stress conditions
Technical procedures with zero error margin
Team coordination in hazardous situations

Certifications needed:

Formal EOD school certification (many companies prefer military EOD school graduates, but some offer civilian EOD training)
UXO technician certification (programs like CISA or similar civilian explosives training)
Hazmat certifications
OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification
Security clearance (massive advantage if you held one)

Reality check: True EOD work typically requires formal EOD school (military or civilian equivalent). Your 0351 demolitions training is a foundation, but civilian EOD employers often want dedicated EOD school graduates (Navy EOD, Army 89D, etc.).

UXO remediation is more accessible. Companies clear old military ranges, construction sites, and overseas conflict zones of unexploded ordnance. Your explosives background makes you a strong candidate with additional certification.

Overseas UXO work pays extremely well but involves deploying to former conflict zones (Europe, Southeast Asia, Middle East) for 6-12 month contracts. Dangerous work, but compensated accordingly.

Domestic work includes former military ranges, construction sites where ordnance is discovered, and government contracts. More stable but lower pay than overseas.

Best for: Former 0351s with strong technical aptitude who want to work with ordnance in a civilian capacity and are willing to get additional EOD/UXO certifications.

Law enforcement and tactical teams (common path)

Civilian job titles:

Police officer
Deputy sheriff
State trooper
SWAT team member
Federal law enforcement (ATF, DEA, USMS, FBI)
Bomb squad technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level municipal police: $48,000-$62,000
State trooper: $67,000-$70,000
Federal agent (GS-7 to GS-9 entry): $56,000-$79,000
SWAT team member: $70,000-$95,000 (base + specialty pay)
Bomb squad technician: $75,000-$110,000
Federal senior agent: $90,000-$120,000+

What translates directly:

Tactical operations and breaching techniques
Weapons proficiency (pistol, rifle, rockets)
High-stress decision making
Following rules of engagement
Team coordination and communication
Report writing and documentation
Physical fitness standards

Certifications needed:

POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) certification—earned through police academy after hire (4-6 months)
Associate's degree in Criminal Justice (required or strongly preferred)
Physical fitness standards
Background check and polygraph
SWAT/tactical certifications (earned after years on patrol, not entry-level)

Reality check: You won't join SWAT immediately. You'll work patrol for 3-5 years before being eligible for tactical teams. But your 0351 breaching and demolitions background makes you an ideal SWAT candidate when opportunities arise.

Bomb squad positions specifically value your explosives experience. These are specialized assignments after years on the force, but your military demolitions training is directly relevant.

Hiring timeline is long (6-12 months from application to academy). Veterans preference applies to federal positions and many state/local departments.

ATF specifically recruits veterans with explosives backgrounds. Your 0351 experience is particularly valued there.

Best for: Former 0351s who want structure, mission-focused work, opportunity to use tactical skills long-term, and are willing to work patrol before specializing.

Private security and overseas contracting

Civilian job titles:

Security contractor (overseas)
Personal security detail (PSD)
Static security specialist
Maritime security operator
Training instructor / advisor

Salary ranges:

Entry-level OCONUS security: $75,000-$95,000
PSD contractor: $95,000-$140,000
High-threat environment contractor: $130,000-$200,000+
Maritime security: $80,000-$120,000

What translates directly: Everything. You're doing military-adjacent work.

Certifications needed:

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

Reality check: Contracting pays well but is demanding. Expect 12+ hour days, 6-7 days per week, in hostile or austere environments. Work is contract-based and cyclical—you might work 6-9 months then have 2-3 months off (unpaid).

Your 0351 background (breaching, demolitions, assault operations) makes you competitive for higher-tier contractor positions, especially if you have recent combat deployments and active clearance.

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

Not a sustainable 20-year career for most, but an excellent way to bank serious money in your 20s and early 30s.

Best for: Young former 0351s with recent deployments, clearances, and willingness to work overseas in high-threat environments for significant compensation.

Corrections and detention

Civilian job titles:

Correctional officer (state prison)
Federal Bureau of Prisons officer
Detention officer (county jail)
Special response team member

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
High-stress environment management
De-escalation and communication
Physical fitness and defensive tactics
Shift work tolerance
Maintaining security protocols

Certifications needed:

State corrections training academy (6-12 weeks, usually paid)
High school diploma minimum (associate's preferred for federal)
Physical fitness standards

Reality check: Corrections is hard work but fast hiring compared to police. Veteran preference applies. Federal BOP offers law enforcement retirement (retire at 50 with 20 years).

Federal BOP increased base pay by $2,000 in February 2024 due to staffing shortages. Actively recruiting veterans.

Many former 0351s use corrections as stable income while pursuing other certifications or waiting for police/federal positions.

Best for: Former 0351s needing immediate steady income who can handle high-stress environments.

Skilled trades and construction

Civilian job titles:

Electrician
Heavy equipment operator
Construction supervisor
Demolition worker (structural)
HVAC technician
Utility lineman

Salary ranges:

Apprentice: $35,000-$45,000
Journeyman tradesman: $60,000-$75,000
Master tradesman / foreman: $75,000-$95,000
Union lineman: $85,000-$120,000+ (with OT)

What translates directly:

Technical proficiency with tools and equipment
Following detailed procedures
Safety-first mindset
Physical fitness and manual labor
Working in all weather conditions
Team coordination

Certifications needed:

Trade-specific apprenticeship (2-5 years)
State licensing (electrician, plumber, HVAC)
OSHA safety certifications
CDL (for equipment operators)

Reality check: Trades require multi-year apprenticeships but offer clear paths to strong earnings. GI Bill covers apprenticeships—you earn wages ($35K-$45K starting) while learning.

Demand is high nationwide. These jobs can't be outsourced. Union positions offer excellent benefits and wages.

Structural demolition specifically values your understanding of how structures fail and safe demolition practices.

Best for: Former 0351s who want hands-on technical work, strong long-term earning potential, and job security.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Infantry Assaultman" on civilian resumes. HR has zero context. Here's how to translate:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
Demolitions specialist	Calculated and executed controlled demolitions following strict safety protocols
Breaching operations	Conducted structural breaching using technical demolition procedures
Explosives handling	Maintained and employed explosive materials with zero-defect accountability
SMAW / AT-4 operator	Operated complex rocket weapons systems requiring technical proficiency
Assault team leader	Led teams of 3-5 personnel in high-risk tactical operations
Class V accountability	Managed inventory control for explosives and hazardous materials
Charge calculations	Performed mathematical calculations for demolition charge placement
Safety protocols	Followed strict safety procedures in hazardous environments
Equipment maintenance	Maintained complex weapons systems and technical equipment
After-action reports	Documented operations with detailed technical reports

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

Use numbers: "Led team of 5," "Calculated 100+ demolition charges," "Maintained zero safety incidents."

Drop Marine jargon. No civilian knows SMAW, APOBS, or MOUT. Translate to plain English: "rocket systems," "obstacle breaching systems," "urban operations."

Emphasize technical precision, safety management, and mathematical calculations—high-value skills civilians understand.

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these):

State blaster license - Required for commercial blasting careers. Requirements vary by state but typically require 1 year documented experience under licensed blaster plus exam. Cost: $200-$800 depending on state. Time: 1 year experience + exam. Value: Required for blasting careers; high ROI.

Federal blaster certification - Office of Surface Mining certification. Valid nationwide for coal mining. Good baseline credential. Cost: Training + exam (varies). Time: 2-4 weeks training. Value: Nationally recognized credential.

Associate's degree in Criminal Justice - Required or strongly preferred for law enforcement. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Required by most competitive departments.

EMT certification - Valuable for law enforcement, EOD/UXO work, contracting. Cost: $1,000-$2,000 (GI Bill covers many programs). Time: 6 months part-time. Value: High across multiple career paths.

OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER - Required for UXO remediation and some EOD work. Hazardous waste operations training. Cost: $300-$800. Time: 5 days. Value: Required for hazmat/UXO work.

Medium priority (if it fits your career path):

UXO technician certification - If pursuing UXO remediation career. Programs like CISA offer civilian training. Cost: $3,000-$8,000. Time: 2-4 weeks. Value: Opens UXO contractor positions.

State security guard / armed guard license - Required for private security work. Cost: $100-$500. Time: 1-2 weeks. Value: Required for security careers.

Trade apprenticeship - Electrician, heavy equipment operator, etc. GI Bill covers apprenticeships. Time: 2-5 years. Earning potential: $75K-$120K+.

High Threat PSD training - If targeting overseas contracting. Cost: $2,500-$5,000. Time: 2-3 weeks. Value: Required for high-end contractor positions.

CDL (Commercial Driver's License) - Opens trucking and equipment operator roles. Cost: $3,000-$7,000. Time: 3-8 weeks. Starting pay: $45K-$55K.

Lower priority (nice to have, not critical):

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Construction Management - If targeting project management in construction/mining. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 4 years. Value: Good for management track.

Drone/UAS certification - Growing field for inspections and surveying. Cost: $500-$2,000. Value: Emerging opportunity but competitive.

Project Management Professional (PMP) - For corporate project management careers. Cost: $800-$3,000. Value: Medium for non-technical paths.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest. There are civilian skills you'll need to develop.

Computer skills: If your computer experience is limited to checking email and PowerPoint briefs, you're behind. Most jobs require Microsoft Office proficiency, especially Excel. Take free LinkedIn Learning or YouTube courses. Learn Excel basics at minimum.

Civilian blasting calculations: Your military demolitions math is a foundation, but civilian blasting uses different formulas, powder factors, and blast design principles. You'll learn this during your blaster training and apprenticeship under a licensed blaster.

Licensing and regulations knowledge: Civilian explosives work is heavily regulated (ATF, MSHA, state agencies). You'll need to learn applicable regulations, permitting, storage requirements, and documentation. This comes with your blaster training.

Customer service and communication: Marines are trained to be direct and aggressive. Civilian employers want de-escalation and professional communication. Adjust your communication style significantly.

Resume and interview skills: Civilian job applications are completely different. Use Military Transition Toolkit to translate your 0351 experience into civilian-friendly language.

Patience with bureaucracy: Civilian hiring is slow. Background checks take months. Licensing processes take time. Stay patient and keep moving forward.

Real 0351 success stories

Brandon, 29, former 0351 team leader → Blast Supervisor (Mining)

After 6 years including Afghanistan deployment, Brandon separated as a Sergeant. Worked as explosives helper at a quarry in West Virginia for 1 year ($48K), documenting experience under licensed blaster. Got his state blaster license, worked 3 years as blaster ($65K), promoted to blast supervisor. Now makes $85,000 with benefits. "My demo training from 0351 gave me a huge advantage. Companies love hiring veterans with explosives backgrounds."

Alex, 27, former 0351 → UXO Technician (Overseas)

Alex did 4 years, got out as a Corporal. Got HAZWOPER certification and UXO tech training (civilian program, 4 weeks, $6K). Landed contract UXO job in Cambodia clearing landmines and ordnance. Works 6-month rotations earning $95K per contract. Hard work but excellent money. "My 0351 explosives experience made me a competitive candidate. Living overseas isn't for everyone, but the money is real."

Marcus, 30, former 0351 → ATF Special Agent

Marcus did 5 years as 0351, got out as Sergeant. Used GI Bill for bachelor's degree in criminal justice (4 years) while working armed security. Applied to ATF highlighting his demolitions and explosives background. After extensive hiring process (8 months), accepted as ATF agent (GS-9, $68K starting). Now GS-11 making $82,000 after 2 years. "ATF specifically wanted people with explosives knowledge. My 0351 background was a major selling point."

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's your concrete action plan after separating:

Month 1: Foundation and assessment

Get 10 certified copies of DD-214
File for VA disability if eligible
Update resume using Military Transition Toolkit
Create professional LinkedIn profile
Research career paths: blasting, UXO, law enforcement, trades
Connect with other former 0351s who've transitioned (LinkedIn, veteran groups)

Month 2: Certifications and applications

If pursuing blasting: Research state licensing requirements; apply to quarries, mining companies, construction firms as explosives helper
If pursuing law enforcement: Enroll in Criminal Justice program using GI Bill; apply to departments
If pursuing UXO: Research UXO certification programs; get HAZWOPER certification
If pursuing trades: Research apprenticeships using GI Bill
Apply to 10-15 jobs per week across multiple paths
Attend veteran job fairs

Month 3: Interviews and momentum

Tailor resume for each application emphasizing relevant demolitions/explosives experience
Practice interview questions: leadership, technical skills, safety mindset, problem-solving
Follow up on all applications
Network with veterans in your target field
Consider temporary work if needed for income while pursuing certifications
Stay physically fit and professional

Bottom line for 0351s

Your Infantry Assaultman MOS may have been phased out, but your demolitions and breaching skills are legitimate technical expertise.

You've proven you can handle explosives safely, calculate demolition charges, execute precision breaching operations, lead teams in high-risk environments, and maintain zero-defect accountability with hazardous materials. Those are specialized skills with real civilian value.

Commercial blasting, UXO remediation, law enforcement (especially tactical teams), security contracting, corrections, and skilled trades are proven paths. You're not starting from zero—you have technical explosives training most civilians never receive.

First-year income of $45K-$67K is realistic across most paths. Within 5 years, $80K-$100K+ is achievable in blasting, UXO, federal law enforcement, or contracting careers.

Your 0351 training is specialized and valuable. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

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

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

The Marine Corps phased out MOS 0351 Infantry Assaultman in October 2020, reclassifying everyone as 0311 Riflemen. Combat engineers now handle breaching and demolition duties in rifle companies.

If you held the 0351 MOS, you might feel like your specialized training was wasted. Here's the truth: your demolitions and breaching experience is actually valuable in multiple civilian sectors.

You weren't just "blowing stuff up." You:

Calculated demolition charges for structural breaching with mathematical precision
Handled explosives (C4, TNT, det cord) following strict safety protocols
Operated rocket systems (SMAW, AT-4) requiring technical proficiency
Employed APOBS (Anti-Personnel Obstacle Breaching System) in complex scenarios
Led assault teams through high-risk breaching operations
Maintained accountability for Class V (explosives) with zero tolerance for error
Made real-time decisions about charge placement, blast radius, and safety distances
Executed multi-step demolition procedures under extreme pressure
Trained other Marines on explosives safety and employment

Best civilian career paths for 0351

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where former 0351s successfully land, with current 2025 salary data.

Commercial blasting and explosives work (highest skills match)

Civilian job titles:

Blaster (mining, quarry, construction)
Explosives worker
Blast crew supervisor
Powder technician
Demolition specialist
Rock blasting technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level blaster: $45,000-$55,000
Experienced blaster: $57,000-$75,000
Blast supervisor / powder foreman: $70,000-$90,000
Senior blaster / project manager: $85,000-$110,000

What translates directly:

Explosives handling and safety protocols
Calculating charges, blast radius, and timing
Understanding of demolition principles
Following strict safety procedures
Equipment accountability
Working in hazardous environments
Technical precision with zero error tolerance

Certifications needed:

State blaster license (required in most states—requirements vary significantly)
Federal blaster certification (from Office of Surface Mining for coal mining—good nationwide credential)
MSHA (Mine Safety and Health Administration) training (if working in mining sector)
OSHA explosives handling certification
1+ year documented experience under licensed blaster (required for licensure in most states)

Major employers: Orica, Dyno Nobel, Austin Powder Company, Vulcan Materials, Martin Marietta, local quarry operations, construction firms.

Work is often remote (mine sites, quarries, construction sites), physical, and weather-dependent. But demand is consistent and pay is solid.

Best for: Former 0351s who want to directly use their demolitions training and don't mind physical outdoor work in industrial settings.

EOD and UXO (unexploded ordnance) remediation

Civilian job titles:

EOD technician (civilian)
UXO technician
Explosive ordnance disposal specialist
Munitions response specialist
Range clearance technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level UXO tech: $55,000-$70,000
Experienced EOD technician: $75,000-$95,000
Senior EOD specialist: $95,000-$120,000+
Overseas UXO contractor: $100,000-$180,000

What translates directly:

Explosives identification and handling
Safety protocols with ordnance
Working under high-stress conditions
Technical procedures with zero error margin
Team coordination in hazardous situations

Certifications needed:

Formal EOD school certification (many companies prefer military EOD school graduates, but some offer civilian EOD training)
UXO technician certification (programs like CISA or similar civilian explosives training)
Hazmat certifications
OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER certification
Security clearance (massive advantage if you held one)

Overseas UXO work pays extremely well but involves deploying to former conflict zones (Europe, Southeast Asia, Middle East) for 6-12 month contracts. Dangerous work, but compensated accordingly.

Domestic work includes former military ranges, construction sites where ordnance is discovered, and government contracts. More stable but lower pay than overseas.

Best for: Former 0351s with strong technical aptitude who want to work with ordnance in a civilian capacity and are willing to get additional EOD/UXO certifications.

Law enforcement and tactical teams (common path)

Civilian job titles:

Police officer
Deputy sheriff
State trooper
SWAT team member
Federal law enforcement (ATF, DEA, USMS, FBI)
Bomb squad technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level municipal police: $48,000-$62,000
State trooper: $67,000-$70,000
Federal agent (GS-7 to GS-9 entry): $56,000-$79,000
SWAT team member: $70,000-$95,000 (base + specialty pay)
Bomb squad technician: $75,000-$110,000
Federal senior agent: $90,000-$120,000+

What translates directly:

Tactical operations and breaching techniques
Weapons proficiency (pistol, rifle, rockets)
High-stress decision making
Following rules of engagement
Team coordination and communication
Report writing and documentation
Physical fitness standards

Certifications needed:

POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) certification—earned through police academy after hire (4-6 months)
Associate's degree in Criminal Justice (required or strongly preferred)
Physical fitness standards
Background check and polygraph
SWAT/tactical certifications (earned after years on patrol, not entry-level)

Bomb squad positions specifically value your explosives experience. These are specialized assignments after years on the force, but your military demolitions training is directly relevant.

Hiring timeline is long (6-12 months from application to academy). Veterans preference applies to federal positions and many state/local departments.

ATF specifically recruits veterans with explosives backgrounds. Your 0351 experience is particularly valued there.

Best for: Former 0351s who want structure, mission-focused work, opportunity to use tactical skills long-term, and are willing to work patrol before specializing.

Private security and overseas contracting

Civilian job titles:

Security contractor (overseas)
Personal security detail (PSD)
Static security specialist
Maritime security operator
Training instructor / advisor

Salary ranges:

Entry-level OCONUS security: $75,000-$95,000
PSD contractor: $95,000-$140,000
High-threat environment contractor: $130,000-$200,000+
Maritime security: $80,000-$120,000

What translates directly: Everything. You're doing military-adjacent work.

Certifications needed:

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

Your 0351 background (breaching, demolitions, assault operations) makes you competitive for higher-tier contractor positions, especially if you have recent combat deployments and active clearance.

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

Not a sustainable 20-year career for most, but an excellent way to bank serious money in your 20s and early 30s.

Best for: Young former 0351s with recent deployments, clearances, and willingness to work overseas in high-threat environments for significant compensation.

Corrections and detention

Civilian job titles:

Correctional officer (state prison)
Federal Bureau of Prisons officer
Detention officer (county jail)
Special response team member

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
High-stress environment management
De-escalation and communication
Physical fitness and defensive tactics
Shift work tolerance
Maintaining security protocols

Certifications needed:

State corrections training academy (6-12 weeks, usually paid)
High school diploma minimum (associate's preferred for federal)
Physical fitness standards

Reality check: Corrections is hard work but fast hiring compared to police. Veteran preference applies. Federal BOP offers law enforcement retirement (retire at 50 with 20 years).

Federal BOP increased base pay by $2,000 in February 2024 due to staffing shortages. Actively recruiting veterans.

Many former 0351s use corrections as stable income while pursuing other certifications or waiting for police/federal positions.

Best for: Former 0351s needing immediate steady income who can handle high-stress environments.

Skilled trades and construction

Civilian job titles:

Electrician
Heavy equipment operator
Construction supervisor
Demolition worker (structural)
HVAC technician
Utility lineman

Salary ranges:

Apprentice: $35,000-$45,000
Journeyman tradesman: $60,000-$75,000
Master tradesman / foreman: $75,000-$95,000
Union lineman: $85,000-$120,000+ (with OT)

What translates directly:

Technical proficiency with tools and equipment
Following detailed procedures
Safety-first mindset
Physical fitness and manual labor
Working in all weather conditions
Team coordination

Certifications needed:

Trade-specific apprenticeship (2-5 years)
State licensing (electrician, plumber, HVAC)
OSHA safety certifications
CDL (for equipment operators)

Reality check: Trades require multi-year apprenticeships but offer clear paths to strong earnings. GI Bill covers apprenticeships—you earn wages ($35K-$45K starting) while learning.

Demand is high nationwide. These jobs can't be outsourced. Union positions offer excellent benefits and wages.

Structural demolition specifically values your understanding of how structures fail and safe demolition practices.

Best for: Former 0351s who want hands-on technical work, strong long-term earning potential, and job security.

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Infantry Assaultman" on civilian resumes. HR has zero context. Here's how to translate:

Military Skill	Civilian Translation
Demolitions specialist	Calculated and executed controlled demolitions following strict safety protocols
Breaching operations	Conducted structural breaching using technical demolition procedures
Explosives handling	Maintained and employed explosive materials with zero-defect accountability
SMAW / AT-4 operator	Operated complex rocket weapons systems requiring technical proficiency
Assault team leader	Led teams of 3-5 personnel in high-risk tactical operations
Class V accountability	Managed inventory control for explosives and hazardous materials
Charge calculations	Performed mathematical calculations for demolition charge placement
Safety protocols	Followed strict safety procedures in hazardous environments
Equipment maintenance	Maintained complex weapons systems and technical equipment
After-action reports	Documented operations with detailed technical reports

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

Use numbers: "Led team of 5," "Calculated 100+ demolition charges," "Maintained zero safety incidents."

Drop Marine jargon. No civilian knows SMAW, APOBS, or MOUT. Translate to plain English: "rocket systems," "obstacle breaching systems," "urban operations."

Emphasize technical precision, safety management, and mathematical calculations—high-value skills civilians understand.

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 - Required or strongly preferred for law enforcement. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2 years. Value: Required by most competitive departments.

OSHA 40-hour HAZWOPER - Required for UXO remediation and some EOD work. Hazardous waste operations training. Cost: $300-$800. Time: 5 days. Value: Required for hazmat/UXO work.

Medium priority (if it fits your career path):

UXO technician certification - If pursuing UXO remediation career. Programs like CISA offer civilian training. Cost: $3,000-$8,000. Time: 2-4 weeks. Value: Opens UXO contractor positions.

State security guard / armed guard license - Required for private security work. Cost: $100-$500. Time: 1-2 weeks. Value: Required for security careers.

Trade apprenticeship - Electrician, heavy equipment operator, etc. GI Bill covers apprenticeships. Time: 2-5 years. Earning potential: $75K-$120K+.

High Threat PSD training - If targeting overseas contracting. Cost: $2,500-$5,000. Time: 2-3 weeks. Value: Required for high-end contractor positions.

CDL (Commercial Driver's License) - Opens trucking and equipment operator roles. Cost: $3,000-$7,000. Time: 3-8 weeks. Starting pay: $45K-$55K.

Lower priority (nice to have, not critical):

Bachelor's degree in Engineering / Construction Management - If targeting project management in construction/mining. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 4 years. Value: Good for management track.

Drone/UAS certification - Growing field for inspections and surveying. Cost: $500-$2,000. Value: Emerging opportunity but competitive.

Project Management Professional (PMP) - For corporate project management careers. Cost: $800-$3,000. Value: Medium for non-technical paths.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

Let's be honest. There are civilian skills you'll need to develop.

Resume and interview skills: Civilian job applications are completely different. Use Military Transition Toolkit to translate your 0351 experience into civilian-friendly language.

Patience with bureaucracy: Civilian hiring is slow. Background checks take months. Licensing processes take time. Stay patient and keep moving forward.

Real 0351 success stories

Brandon, 29, former 0351 team leader → Blast Supervisor (Mining)

Alex, 27, former 0351 → UXO Technician (Overseas)

Marcus, 30, former 0351 → ATF Special Agent

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's your concrete action plan after separating:

Month 1: Foundation and assessment

Get 10 certified copies of DD-214
File for VA disability if eligible
Update resume using Military Transition Toolkit
Create professional LinkedIn profile
Research career paths: blasting, UXO, law enforcement, trades
Connect with other former 0351s who've transitioned (LinkedIn, veteran groups)

Month 2: Certifications and applications

If pursuing blasting: Research state licensing requirements; apply to quarries, mining companies, construction firms as explosives helper
If pursuing law enforcement: Enroll in Criminal Justice program using GI Bill; apply to departments
If pursuing UXO: Research UXO certification programs; get HAZWOPER certification
If pursuing trades: Research apprenticeships using GI Bill
Apply to 10-15 jobs per week across multiple paths
Attend veteran job fairs

Month 3: Interviews and momentum

Tailor resume for each application emphasizing relevant demolitions/explosives experience
Practice interview questions: leadership, technical skills, safety mindset, problem-solving
Follow up on all applications
Network with veterans in your target field
Consider temporary work if needed for income while pursuing certifications
Stay physically fit and professional

Bottom line for 0351s

Your Infantry Assaultman MOS may have been phased out, but your demolitions and breaching skills are legitimate technical expertise.

First-year income of $45K-$67K is realistic across most paths. Within 5 years, $80K-$100K+ is achievable in blasting, UXO, federal law enforcement, or contracting careers.

Your 0351 training is specialized and valuable. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.

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