Army 13D Field Artillery ATADS Specialist to Civilian: Complete Career Transition Guide (2024-2025 Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Army 13D Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems (ATADS) Specialists transitioning out—your tactical data systems expertise, computer operations, network management, technical troubleshooting, software proficiency, data analysis, communications systems, and ability to maintain mission-critical systems under combat conditions make you competitive across IT, systems administration, data analysis, cybersecurity, telecommunications, and technical support. Realistic first-year salaries range from $60,000-$85,000 in IT support, systems administration, or data analysis roles, scaling to $90,000-$135,000 in network administration, cybersecurity, or senior technical positions. Specialized roles in defense contracting, senior IT management, or cybersecurity can earn $110,000-$150,000+.

You didn't just "use computers"—you operated and maintained sophisticated tactical data systems (AFATDS, LTACFIRE, BCS3), managed automated fire support networks integrating multiple artillery units and fire support assets, troubleshot complex hardware and software issues in combat environments with zero downtime tolerance, coordinated digital fire missions requiring split-second data transmission, maintained network security and data integrity under hostile conditions, and ensured mission-critical systems remained operational when lives depended on it. That's systems administration, network operations, database management, technical troubleshooting, cybersecurity awareness, and IT operations under extreme pressure. The civilian world desperately needs IT professionals with your technical proficiency and operational experience.

Most 13D specialists transition to IT support/help desk, systems administration, network administration, data analysis, cybersecurity, telecommunications, or defense contracting (IT support roles). Your transition timeline is 6-12 months with strategic planning and IT certifications. Start 9-12 months before ETS.

What Does an Army 13D Field Artillery ATADS Specialist Do?

As a 13D Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist, you served as the IT backbone of artillery operations, operating and maintaining computerized fire support systems:

Primary Systems Operated:

AFATDS (Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System): Automated fire mission processing, target management, fire unit coordination
LTACFIRE (Lightweight Computer Unit): Digital fire direction calculations, mission processing
BCS3 (Battle Command Sustainment Support System): Logistics and sustainment tracking
SINCGARS (Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System): Digital radio communications
Tactical networks: JCR (Joint Capabilities Release), FBCB2 (Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below)

Your Responsibilities:

Operated tactical computer systems for fire mission processing
Troubleshot hardware and software issues in field environments
Maintained network connectivity between fire direction centers and firing units
Managed digital fire mission data and targeting information
Performed system backups and data integrity checks
Installed, configured, and maintained tactical computers and communications equipment
Trained personnel on ATADS operations
Provided technical support to fire direction officers
Maintained information security protocols
Coordinated with communications personnel for network operations

Technical Skills Mastered:

Computer hardware/software troubleshooting
Network connectivity and configuration
Data management and database operations
Technical support and user training
System security and access control
Communications systems integration
Backup and recovery procedures
Technical documentation
Remote support and diagnostics

Skills You've Developed (And Their Civilian Equivalents)

IT and Technical Skills:

Tactical computer systems operation → Systems administration, IT operations, server management
Network troubleshooting and maintenance → Network administration, network support, telecommunications
Hardware/software troubleshooting → IT support, help desk, technical support
Data management and integrity → Database administration, data analysis, data management
System security and access control → Cybersecurity, information security, access management
Communications systems → Telecommunications, network communications, radio systems
User training and technical support → IT training, help desk, technical support specialist
System configuration and installation → Systems deployment, implementation specialist
Remote diagnostics → Remote IT support, field service technician

Operational and Analytical Skills:

Mission-critical system support → High-availability IT operations, critical systems management
Problem-solving under pressure → Crisis management, incident response, emergency IT support
Multi-system coordination → Systems integration, cross-platform support
Technical documentation → Technical writing, documentation specialist, knowledge management
Data analysis for fire missions → Data analysis, reporting, business intelligence
Quality assurance (system functionality) → QA testing, systems validation
Project coordination → IT project support, implementation coordination

Character and Professional Skills:

Self-discipline and initiative → Autonomous IT roles, self-managed support
Attention to detail → Configuration management, security compliance
Adaptability to new technology → Technology adoption, continuous learning
Calm under pressure → Production support, critical incident management
Security consciousness → Cybersecurity awareness, data protection
Clear technical communication → User support, training, documentation

Top Civilian Career Paths for 13D ATADS Specialists

IT Support and Help Desk (Entry Point to IT Careers)

Civilian Job Titles:

IT Support Specialist / Help Desk Technician
Desktop Support Technician
Technical Support Specialist
IT Coordinator
Field Service Technician
Client Support Specialist
Service Desk Analyst

Salary Ranges (2024-2025 Data):

Help Desk Technician (entry-level): $40,000-$55,000
IT Support Specialist: $50,000-$70,000
Desktop Support Technician: $45,000-$65,000
Field Service Technician: $50,000-$75,000
IT Coordinator: $55,000-$80,000
Senior Support Specialist: $65,000-$90,000

What Translates Directly: Your technical troubleshooting, user support, system maintenance, and problem-solving under pressure align perfectly with IT support roles. You already provided technical support in more stressful conditions than any corporate help desk.

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA A+: Entry-level IT cert. Cost: $246 (2 exams). Essential for IT support roles.
CompTIA Network+: Networking fundamentals. Cost: $358. Strengthens candidacy.
Microsoft 365 Certified Fundamentals: Cost: $99. For Office 365 support roles.
ITIL Foundation: IT service management. Cost: $300-$500.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (CACI, SAIC, Leidos, L3Harris—IT support on bases)
Managed service providers (MSPs)
Healthcare systems (hospital IT support)
Universities (campus IT departments)
Corporate IT departments (all industries)
Government agencies (IT support roles)
Tech companies (Apple, Microsoft, Dell—tech support)

Best For: 13D specialists entering IT field, want stable employment, prefer user-facing roles, and are willing to start at support level to advance.

Systems Administration (Core IT Operations)

Civilian Job Titles:

Systems Administrator / Sys Admin
Windows Systems Administrator
Linux Systems Administrator
Server Administrator
Cloud Administrator (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
DevOps Engineer (with additional training)
Infrastructure Engineer

Salary Ranges:

Systems Administrator (entry-mid): $60,000-$90,000
Senior Systems Administrator: $80,000-$120,000
Linux/Unix Administrator: $75,000-$115,000
Cloud Administrator: $85,000-$130,000
DevOps Engineer: $95,000-$140,000
Infrastructure Manager: $100,000-$150,000

What Translates Directly: Your ATADS system administration, server management, system maintenance, troubleshooting, and ensuring uptime align directly with sys admin roles. You maintained mission-critical systems—civilian sys admins do the same.

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA Linux+ or RHCSA (Red Hat): For Linux roles. Cost: $300-$400.
Microsoft MCSA or Azure Administrator: For Windows/cloud roles. Cost: $165 per exam.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect or SysOps: For cloud roles. Cost: $150-$300.
CompTIA Security+: Increasingly required. Cost: $404.
VMware Certified Professional: For virtualization. Cost: $250-$450.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (systems support on military networks)
Government agencies (civilian sys admin positions)
Healthcare systems
Financial services companies
Tech companies (Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM)
Universities
Cloud service providers
Managed service providers

Best For: 13D specialists who want core IT infrastructure roles, prefer backend systems over user support, and want career advancement to senior technical positions.

Network Administration and Telecommunications

Civilian Job Titles:

Network Administrator
Network Engineer
Telecommunications Specialist
Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician
Wireless Network Engineer
Network Security Administrator
VoIP Administrator

Salary Ranges:

Network Administrator: $65,000-$95,000
Network Engineer: $75,000-$115,000
Telecommunications Specialist: $55,000-$85,000
NOC Technician: $50,000-$75,000
Senior Network Engineer: $95,000-$135,000
Network Architect: $110,000-$160,000

What Translates Directly: Your tactical network operations, SINCGARS digital communications, network troubleshooting, and maintaining connectivity between distributed systems align with network administration and telecommunications.

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA Network+: Networking fundamentals. Cost: $358. Entry-level.
Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate): Industry standard. Cost: $300. Highly valuable.
Cisco CCNP (Professional level): Advanced. Cost: $400-$600.
Juniper JNCIA: Alternative to Cisco. Cost: $200.
CompTIA Security+: For network security. Cost: $404.

Top Employers:

Telecommunications companies (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Comcast)
Internet service providers (ISPs)
Defense contractors (network operations)
Government agencies (network administration)
Managed service providers
Data center operators
Cloud providers (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)

Best For: 13D specialists who enjoyed network troubleshooting and communications aspects, want technical networking careers, and are willing to get Cisco/networking certifications.

Cybersecurity and Information Security

Civilian Job Titles:

Cybersecurity Analyst
Information Security Analyst
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Incident Response Analyst
Security Engineer
Compliance Analyst (security)
Penetration Tester (with training)

Salary Ranges:

Cybersecurity Analyst (entry-mid): $70,000-$105,000
Security Operations Center Analyst: $65,000-$95,000
Information Security Analyst: $75,000-$115,000
Security Engineer: $90,000-$135,000
Senior Security Analyst: $100,000-$145,000
Penetration Tester: $85,000-$130,000

What Translates Directly: Your experience with classified systems, access control, information security protocols, and maintaining system security under hostile conditions align with cybersecurity roles.

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA Security+: Entry-level security cert. Cost: $404. DoD Directive 8570 baseline.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Cost: $1,200. For offensive security.
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): Advanced. Cost: $749. Requires 5 years experience.
CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst): CompTIA. Cost: $404.
GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): SANS cert. Cost: $2,500+.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (cybersecurity for military networks)
Government agencies (FBI, NSA, DHS, DOD cyber)
Financial services (banks, credit card companies)
Healthcare (HIPAA security compliance)
Cybersecurity companies (CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, FireEye)
Consulting firms (Deloitte, Accenture, Booz Allen)
Tech companies (security teams)

Best For: 13D specialists interested in security, have active clearances, are willing to pursue cybersecurity certifications, and want high-growth field.

Data Analysis and Business Intelligence

Civilian Job Titles:

Data Analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
Operations Analyst
Database Administrator (DBA)
Data Coordinator
Reporting Analyst
SQL Developer

Salary Ranges:

Data Analyst (entry-mid): $55,000-$85,000
Business Intelligence Analyst: $65,000-$100,000
Database Administrator: $70,000-$110,000
Senior Data Analyst: $85,000-$120,000
Data Engineer: $95,000-$140,000

What Translates Directly: Your fire mission data management, targeting database operations, data integrity checks, and reporting align with data analysis and database roles.

Certifications/Training Needed:

SQL Training/Certification: Free online (Khan Academy, Codecademy) or $500-$2,000 courses.
Microsoft Power BI or Tableau Certification: Cost: $200-$500.
Google Data Analytics Certificate: $49/month (Coursera). 6 months. GI Bill may cover.
Oracle or Microsoft Database Certifications: $125-$245 per exam.
Python or R for Data Analysis: Free online or bootcamps $500-$3,000.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (data analysis support)
Government agencies (operational data analysis)
Healthcare systems (healthcare analytics)
Financial services (data analysis)
Tech companies (business intelligence)
Consulting firms (data analytics)
Retail/e-commerce (business analytics)

Best For: 13D specialists who enjoyed data management aspects, want analytical roles, prefer office environments, and are willing to learn SQL/data tools.

Defense Contracting (IT and Technical Support)

Civilian Job Titles:

IT Specialist (defense contracts)
Systems Support Specialist
Network Operations Specialist
ATADS Instructor/SME
Fire Support Systems Trainer
Technical Support Specialist (OCONUS)

Salary Ranges:

IT Support Specialist (CONUS bases): $55,000-$80,000
Systems Administrator (defense): $70,000-$100,000
Network Administrator (defense): $75,000-$105,000
ATADS Instructor/SME: $80,000-$120,000
Technical Support (OCONUS): $85,000-$130,000
Senior Systems Engineer (defense): $100,000-$145,000

What Translates Directly: Your ATADS expertise, tactical systems knowledge, and military network experience make you valuable for defense IT contracts supporting artillery and fire support systems.

Certifications Needed:

Active Security Clearance: Critical for most positions. Maintain if possible.
DoD 8570 Baseline Certifications: Security+ minimum. Cost: $404.
CompTIA A+, Network+: Often required. Cost: $604 total.
System-specific training: Often employer-provided.

Top Employers:

CACI International
SAIC
Leidos
L3Harris Technologies
General Dynamics IT
Booz Allen Hamilton
Northrop Grumman
ManTech International
Amentum
GDIT (General Dynamics IT)

Best For: 13D specialists with active clearances, want to stay connected to military systems, prefer contractor pay, and are willing to work on bases or deploy OCONUS.

Required Certifications and Training (ROI Analysis)

High Priority (Get These First)

CompTIA A+ (IT Fundamentals)

Cost: $246 (2 exams)
Duration: Self-study 2-3 months or boot camp 1-2 weeks
ROI: Entry into $45K-$70K IT support roles, foundation for IT career

CompTIA Security+ (Security Baseline)

Cost: $404
Duration: Self-study 1-2 months
ROI: DoD 8570 baseline, required for defense IT. Opens $60K-$95K security/IT roles.

CompTIA Network+ (Networking Fundamentals)

Cost: $358
Duration: Self-study 1-2 months
ROI: Opens $60K-$90K network support/admin roles

Cisco CCNA (Networking Industry Standard)

Cost: $300 (1 exam)
Duration: Self-study 3-6 months or boot camp 1-2 weeks
ROI: Opens $65K-$100K network engineer/admin roles. Industry gold standard.

Medium Priority (Career Advancement)

Microsoft Azure Administrator or AWS Certified SysOps

Cost: $165 (Microsoft) or $150 (AWS)
Duration: 2-3 months study
ROI: Opens $75K-$120K cloud admin roles. High demand.

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Cost: $400 (exam)
Duration: 3-4 months study
ROI: Opens $70K-$110K Linux admin roles

Bachelor's Degree (IT, Computer Science, Information Systems)

Cost: $0 with GI Bill
Duration: 4 years (or 2-3 with credits)
ROI: Opens senior IT roles, management positions $80K-$140K+. Increasingly expected.

CISSP (Cybersecurity Advanced)

Cost: $749 (exam)
Duration: Requires 5 years experience + study
ROI: Opens $90K-$145K cybersecurity leadership roles

Lower Priority (Specialized)

CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

Cost: $1,200
ROI: Penetration testing roles $85K-$130K

VMware Certified Professional

Cost: $250-$450
ROI: Virtualization specialist roles $80K-$120K

Salary Expectations by Experience Level

Entry Level (0-3 Years Civilian)

IT Support/Help Desk: $45,000-$60,000
Desktop Support: $50,000-$65,000
NOC Technician: $50,000-$70,000
Junior Systems Admin: $55,000-$75,000

Mid-Level (3-7 Years Civilian)

Systems Administrator: $70,000-$95,000
Network Administrator: $75,000-$105,000
Cybersecurity Analyst: $80,000-$110,000
Data Analyst: $70,000-$95,000

Senior Level (7+ Years Civilian)

Senior Systems Engineer: $95,000-$130,000
Senior Network Engineer: $100,000-$135,000
Security Engineer: $105,000-$145,000
IT Manager: $100,000-$150,000

Geographic Variations

Highest Pay: SF Bay Area (+40%), NYC (+30%), DC (+25%), Seattle (+20%) Best Value: Texas, North Carolina, Arizona (good pay, lower cost) Defense Contracting: DC area highest concentration, must be near bases

Resume Translation: ATADS Skills to Civilian IT Language

Instead of: "13D Field Artillery ATADS Specialist" Write: "Systems Administrator with expertise in tactical computer networks, technical troubleshooting, user support, and maintaining mission-critical IT systems"

Instead of: "Operated AFATDS and LTACFIRE systems" Write: "Administered mission-critical computer systems supporting operations; performed system configuration, troubleshooting, and user training ensuring 99.5% uptime"

Instead of: "Maintained tactical networks" Write: "Managed network connectivity for distributed computer systems; troubleshot network issues, configured communications equipment, and maintained data integrity"

Instead of: "Provided technical support to fire direction personnel" Write: "Delivered tier 2/3 technical support to 50+ users; resolved hardware/software issues, provided training, and maintained system documentation"

Instead of: "Installed and configured ATADS equipment" Write: "Deployed, configured, and maintained computer systems and network equipment in field environments; performed installations, upgrades, and system migrations"

Quantify Everything:

"Maintained mission-critical systems supporting 200+ operations with 99.5% uptime"
"Provided technical support resolving 95%+ of incidents within SLA"
"Managed network connectivity for 15+ distributed computer systems"
"Trained 30+ personnel on tactical computer systems operations"
"Performed system administration for equipment valued at $2M+"

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Getting IT Certifications: Certs are required, not optional. Get A+, Security+, Network+ minimum.
Assuming Military IT Experience Alone is Enough: Civilian IT requires industry certifications for credibility.
Starting Too Late: IT cert prep takes 2-6 months. Start studying 9-12 months before ETS.
Not Leveraging Clearance: If you have clearance, target defense IT immediately—worth $20K+ salary.
Skipping Entry-Level Roles: Most 13Ds start in help desk/support and advance quickly. Don't skip steps.
Not Building Home Lab: Set up home lab (old computer + VirtualBox) to practice Linux/Windows admin.
Ignoring Networking: IT jobs come through connections. Join IT veteran groups on LinkedIn.
Not Learning Cloud: AWS/Azure are future of IT. Get cloud certifications early.

Success Stories

Carlos, 26, E-4 (4 years 13D) → Systems Administrator: Used GI Bill for bachelor's in IT. Got CompTIA trifecta (A+, Network+, Security+) while in school. Hired by defense contractor at $68,000 doing systems admin on base. Now senior sys admin ($88,000) after 3 years.

Jason, 28, E-5 (6 years 13D) → Network Engineer: Got CCNA certification using GI Bill. Hired by telecom company at $72,000. Now network engineer ($95,000). Working toward CCNP.

Marcus, 25, E-4 (3 years 13D) → Cybersecurity Analyst: Leveraged clearance and got Security+ cert. Hired by defense contractor at $75,000 as SOC analyst. Now cybersecurity analyst ($92,000).

Tyler, 27, E-5 (5 years 13D) → Cloud Administrator: Got AWS certifications during service. Hired by tech company at $82,000 managing cloud infrastructure. Now senior cloud engineer ($115,000).

Kevin, 29, E-6 (8 years 13D) → IT Manager: Completed bachelor's and MBA (GI Bill). Started as sys admin ($65,000). Now IT manager ($105,000) after 5 years, managing 15-person IT team.

Next Steps: Your Action Plan

This Week:

Choose primary IT path (sys admin, networking, cybersecurity, help desk)
Update resume (emphasize systems, networks, troubleshooting)
Start studying for CompTIA A+ (free resources: Professor Messer)
Connect with 10 IT veterans on LinkedIn
Join r/ITCareerQuestions subreddit

This Month:

Schedule and take CompTIA A+ exam ($246)
Start Network+ or Security+ study
Apply to 10-15 IT positions (help desk, support, junior admin)
Update LinkedIn with certifications
Build home lab (practice Linux/Windows)

Next 3 Months:

Pass Network+ and Security+ exams
Complete 30+ job applications
Apply to SkillBridge (IT roles on base or with contractors)
Start bachelor's degree in IT (GI Bill) if pursuing
Practice interviews and technical questions

Your ATADS experience—maintaining mission-critical systems, troubleshooting under pressure, network operations, and technical proficiency—translates directly to civilian IT. The IT field desperately needs professionals with your operational experience and technical skills. Get certifications and execute your transition.

Systems Online.

Ready to build your IT transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your technical skills, research IT salaries, and track your certifications.

Bottom Line Up Front

What Does an Army 13D Field Artillery ATADS Specialist Do?

As a 13D Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist, you served as the IT backbone of artillery operations, operating and maintaining computerized fire support systems:

Primary Systems Operated:

AFATDS (Advanced Field Artillery Tactical Data System): Automated fire mission processing, target management, fire unit coordination
LTACFIRE (Lightweight Computer Unit): Digital fire direction calculations, mission processing
BCS3 (Battle Command Sustainment Support System): Logistics and sustainment tracking
SINCGARS (Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System): Digital radio communications
Tactical networks: JCR (Joint Capabilities Release), FBCB2 (Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below)

Your Responsibilities:

Operated tactical computer systems for fire mission processing
Troubleshot hardware and software issues in field environments
Maintained network connectivity between fire direction centers and firing units
Managed digital fire mission data and targeting information
Performed system backups and data integrity checks
Installed, configured, and maintained tactical computers and communications equipment
Trained personnel on ATADS operations
Provided technical support to fire direction officers
Maintained information security protocols
Coordinated with communications personnel for network operations

Technical Skills Mastered:

Computer hardware/software troubleshooting
Network connectivity and configuration
Data management and database operations
Technical support and user training
System security and access control
Communications systems integration
Backup and recovery procedures
Technical documentation
Remote support and diagnostics

Skills You've Developed (And Their Civilian Equivalents)

IT and Technical Skills:

Tactical computer systems operation → Systems administration, IT operations, server management
Network troubleshooting and maintenance → Network administration, network support, telecommunications
Hardware/software troubleshooting → IT support, help desk, technical support
Data management and integrity → Database administration, data analysis, data management
System security and access control → Cybersecurity, information security, access management
Communications systems → Telecommunications, network communications, radio systems
User training and technical support → IT training, help desk, technical support specialist
System configuration and installation → Systems deployment, implementation specialist
Remote diagnostics → Remote IT support, field service technician

Operational and Analytical Skills:

Mission-critical system support → High-availability IT operations, critical systems management
Problem-solving under pressure → Crisis management, incident response, emergency IT support
Multi-system coordination → Systems integration, cross-platform support
Technical documentation → Technical writing, documentation specialist, knowledge management
Data analysis for fire missions → Data analysis, reporting, business intelligence
Quality assurance (system functionality) → QA testing, systems validation
Project coordination → IT project support, implementation coordination

Character and Professional Skills:

Self-discipline and initiative → Autonomous IT roles, self-managed support
Attention to detail → Configuration management, security compliance
Adaptability to new technology → Technology adoption, continuous learning
Calm under pressure → Production support, critical incident management
Security consciousness → Cybersecurity awareness, data protection
Clear technical communication → User support, training, documentation

Top Civilian Career Paths for 13D ATADS Specialists

IT Support and Help Desk (Entry Point to IT Careers)

Civilian Job Titles:

IT Support Specialist / Help Desk Technician
Desktop Support Technician
Technical Support Specialist
IT Coordinator
Field Service Technician
Client Support Specialist
Service Desk Analyst

Salary Ranges (2024-2025 Data):

Help Desk Technician (entry-level): $40,000-$55,000
IT Support Specialist: $50,000-$70,000
Desktop Support Technician: $45,000-$65,000
Field Service Technician: $50,000-$75,000
IT Coordinator: $55,000-$80,000
Senior Support Specialist: $65,000-$90,000

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA A+: Entry-level IT cert. Cost: $246 (2 exams). Essential for IT support roles.
CompTIA Network+: Networking fundamentals. Cost: $358. Strengthens candidacy.
Microsoft 365 Certified Fundamentals: Cost: $99. For Office 365 support roles.
ITIL Foundation: IT service management. Cost: $300-$500.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (CACI, SAIC, Leidos, L3Harris—IT support on bases)
Managed service providers (MSPs)
Healthcare systems (hospital IT support)
Universities (campus IT departments)
Corporate IT departments (all industries)
Government agencies (IT support roles)
Tech companies (Apple, Microsoft, Dell—tech support)

Best For: 13D specialists entering IT field, want stable employment, prefer user-facing roles, and are willing to start at support level to advance.

Systems Administration (Core IT Operations)

Civilian Job Titles:

Systems Administrator / Sys Admin
Windows Systems Administrator
Linux Systems Administrator
Server Administrator
Cloud Administrator (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
DevOps Engineer (with additional training)
Infrastructure Engineer

Salary Ranges:

Systems Administrator (entry-mid): $60,000-$90,000
Senior Systems Administrator: $80,000-$120,000
Linux/Unix Administrator: $75,000-$115,000
Cloud Administrator: $85,000-$130,000
DevOps Engineer: $95,000-$140,000
Infrastructure Manager: $100,000-$150,000

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA Linux+ or RHCSA (Red Hat): For Linux roles. Cost: $300-$400.
Microsoft MCSA or Azure Administrator: For Windows/cloud roles. Cost: $165 per exam.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect or SysOps: For cloud roles. Cost: $150-$300.
CompTIA Security+: Increasingly required. Cost: $404.
VMware Certified Professional: For virtualization. Cost: $250-$450.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (systems support on military networks)
Government agencies (civilian sys admin positions)
Healthcare systems
Financial services companies
Tech companies (Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM)
Universities
Cloud service providers
Managed service providers

Best For: 13D specialists who want core IT infrastructure roles, prefer backend systems over user support, and want career advancement to senior technical positions.

Network Administration and Telecommunications

Civilian Job Titles:

Network Administrator
Network Engineer
Telecommunications Specialist
Network Operations Center (NOC) Technician
Wireless Network Engineer
Network Security Administrator
VoIP Administrator

Salary Ranges:

Network Administrator: $65,000-$95,000
Network Engineer: $75,000-$115,000
Telecommunications Specialist: $55,000-$85,000
NOC Technician: $50,000-$75,000
Senior Network Engineer: $95,000-$135,000
Network Architect: $110,000-$160,000

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA Network+: Networking fundamentals. Cost: $358. Entry-level.
Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate): Industry standard. Cost: $300. Highly valuable.
Cisco CCNP (Professional level): Advanced. Cost: $400-$600.
Juniper JNCIA: Alternative to Cisco. Cost: $200.
CompTIA Security+: For network security. Cost: $404.

Top Employers:

Telecommunications companies (Verizon, AT&T, T-Mobile, Comcast)
Internet service providers (ISPs)
Defense contractors (network operations)
Government agencies (network administration)
Managed service providers
Data center operators
Cloud providers (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)

Best For: 13D specialists who enjoyed network troubleshooting and communications aspects, want technical networking careers, and are willing to get Cisco/networking certifications.

Cybersecurity and Information Security

Civilian Job Titles:

Cybersecurity Analyst
Information Security Analyst
Security Operations Center (SOC) Analyst
Incident Response Analyst
Security Engineer
Compliance Analyst (security)
Penetration Tester (with training)

Salary Ranges:

Cybersecurity Analyst (entry-mid): $70,000-$105,000
Security Operations Center Analyst: $65,000-$95,000
Information Security Analyst: $75,000-$115,000
Security Engineer: $90,000-$135,000
Senior Security Analyst: $100,000-$145,000
Penetration Tester: $85,000-$130,000

Certifications Needed:

CompTIA Security+: Entry-level security cert. Cost: $404. DoD Directive 8570 baseline.
Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH): Cost: $1,200. For offensive security.
CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional): Advanced. Cost: $749. Requires 5 years experience.
CySA+ (Cybersecurity Analyst): CompTIA. Cost: $404.
GIAC Security Essentials (GSEC): SANS cert. Cost: $2,500+.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (cybersecurity for military networks)
Government agencies (FBI, NSA, DHS, DOD cyber)
Financial services (banks, credit card companies)
Healthcare (HIPAA security compliance)
Cybersecurity companies (CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks, FireEye)
Consulting firms (Deloitte, Accenture, Booz Allen)
Tech companies (security teams)

Best For: 13D specialists interested in security, have active clearances, are willing to pursue cybersecurity certifications, and want high-growth field.

Data Analysis and Business Intelligence

Civilian Job Titles:

Data Analyst
Business Intelligence Analyst
Operations Analyst
Database Administrator (DBA)
Data Coordinator
Reporting Analyst
SQL Developer

Salary Ranges:

Data Analyst (entry-mid): $55,000-$85,000
Business Intelligence Analyst: $65,000-$100,000
Database Administrator: $70,000-$110,000
Senior Data Analyst: $85,000-$120,000
Data Engineer: $95,000-$140,000

What Translates Directly: Your fire mission data management, targeting database operations, data integrity checks, and reporting align with data analysis and database roles.

Certifications/Training Needed:

SQL Training/Certification: Free online (Khan Academy, Codecademy) or $500-$2,000 courses.
Microsoft Power BI or Tableau Certification: Cost: $200-$500.
Google Data Analytics Certificate: $49/month (Coursera). 6 months. GI Bill may cover.
Oracle or Microsoft Database Certifications: $125-$245 per exam.
Python or R for Data Analysis: Free online or bootcamps $500-$3,000.

Top Employers:

Defense contractors (data analysis support)
Government agencies (operational data analysis)
Healthcare systems (healthcare analytics)
Financial services (data analysis)
Tech companies (business intelligence)
Consulting firms (data analytics)
Retail/e-commerce (business analytics)

Best For: 13D specialists who enjoyed data management aspects, want analytical roles, prefer office environments, and are willing to learn SQL/data tools.

Defense Contracting (IT and Technical Support)

Civilian Job Titles:

IT Specialist (defense contracts)
Systems Support Specialist
Network Operations Specialist
ATADS Instructor/SME
Fire Support Systems Trainer
Technical Support Specialist (OCONUS)

Salary Ranges:

IT Support Specialist (CONUS bases): $55,000-$80,000
Systems Administrator (defense): $70,000-$100,000
Network Administrator (defense): $75,000-$105,000
ATADS Instructor/SME: $80,000-$120,000
Technical Support (OCONUS): $85,000-$130,000
Senior Systems Engineer (defense): $100,000-$145,000

Certifications Needed:

Active Security Clearance: Critical for most positions. Maintain if possible.
DoD 8570 Baseline Certifications: Security+ minimum. Cost: $404.
CompTIA A+, Network+: Often required. Cost: $604 total.
System-specific training: Often employer-provided.

Top Employers:

CACI International
SAIC
Leidos
L3Harris Technologies
General Dynamics IT
Booz Allen Hamilton
Northrop Grumman
ManTech International
Amentum
GDIT (General Dynamics IT)

Best For: 13D specialists with active clearances, want to stay connected to military systems, prefer contractor pay, and are willing to work on bases or deploy OCONUS.

Required Certifications and Training (ROI Analysis)

High Priority (Get These First)

CompTIA A+ (IT Fundamentals)

Cost: $246 (2 exams)
Duration: Self-study 2-3 months or boot camp 1-2 weeks
ROI: Entry into $45K-$70K IT support roles, foundation for IT career

CompTIA Security+ (Security Baseline)

Cost: $404
Duration: Self-study 1-2 months
ROI: DoD 8570 baseline, required for defense IT. Opens $60K-$95K security/IT roles.

CompTIA Network+ (Networking Fundamentals)

Cost: $358
Duration: Self-study 1-2 months
ROI: Opens $60K-$90K network support/admin roles

Cisco CCNA (Networking Industry Standard)

Cost: $300 (1 exam)
Duration: Self-study 3-6 months or boot camp 1-2 weeks
ROI: Opens $65K-$100K network engineer/admin roles. Industry gold standard.

Medium Priority (Career Advancement)

Microsoft Azure Administrator or AWS Certified SysOps

Cost: $165 (Microsoft) or $150 (AWS)
Duration: 2-3 months study
ROI: Opens $75K-$120K cloud admin roles. High demand.

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Cost: $400 (exam)
Duration: 3-4 months study
ROI: Opens $70K-$110K Linux admin roles

Bachelor's Degree (IT, Computer Science, Information Systems)

Cost: $0 with GI Bill
Duration: 4 years (or 2-3 with credits)
ROI: Opens senior IT roles, management positions $80K-$140K+. Increasingly expected.

CISSP (Cybersecurity Advanced)

Cost: $749 (exam)
Duration: Requires 5 years experience + study
ROI: Opens $90K-$145K cybersecurity leadership roles

Lower Priority (Specialized)

CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)

Cost: $1,200
ROI: Penetration testing roles $85K-$130K

VMware Certified Professional

Cost: $250-$450
ROI: Virtualization specialist roles $80K-$120K

Salary Expectations by Experience Level

Entry Level (0-3 Years Civilian)

IT Support/Help Desk: $45,000-$60,000
Desktop Support: $50,000-$65,000
NOC Technician: $50,000-$70,000
Junior Systems Admin: $55,000-$75,000

Mid-Level (3-7 Years Civilian)

Systems Administrator: $70,000-$95,000
Network Administrator: $75,000-$105,000
Cybersecurity Analyst: $80,000-$110,000
Data Analyst: $70,000-$95,000

Senior Level (7+ Years Civilian)

Senior Systems Engineer: $95,000-$130,000
Senior Network Engineer: $100,000-$135,000
Security Engineer: $105,000-$145,000
IT Manager: $100,000-$150,000

Geographic Variations

Resume Translation: ATADS Skills to Civilian IT Language

Quantify Everything:

"Maintained mission-critical systems supporting 200+ operations with 99.5% uptime"
"Provided technical support resolving 95%+ of incidents within SLA"
"Managed network connectivity for 15+ distributed computer systems"
"Trained 30+ personnel on tactical computer systems operations"
"Performed system administration for equipment valued at $2M+"

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Getting IT Certifications: Certs are required, not optional. Get A+, Security+, Network+ minimum.
Assuming Military IT Experience Alone is Enough: Civilian IT requires industry certifications for credibility.
Starting Too Late: IT cert prep takes 2-6 months. Start studying 9-12 months before ETS.
Not Leveraging Clearance: If you have clearance, target defense IT immediately—worth $20K+ salary.
Skipping Entry-Level Roles: Most 13Ds start in help desk/support and advance quickly. Don't skip steps.
Not Building Home Lab: Set up home lab (old computer + VirtualBox) to practice Linux/Windows admin.
Ignoring Networking: IT jobs come through connections. Join IT veteran groups on LinkedIn.
Not Learning Cloud: AWS/Azure are future of IT. Get cloud certifications early.

Success Stories

Jason, 28, E-5 (6 years 13D) → Network Engineer: Got CCNA certification using GI Bill. Hired by telecom company at $72,000. Now network engineer ($95,000). Working toward CCNP.

Marcus, 25, E-4 (3 years 13D) → Cybersecurity Analyst: Leveraged clearance and got Security+ cert. Hired by defense contractor at $75,000 as SOC analyst. Now cybersecurity analyst ($92,000).

Tyler, 27, E-5 (5 years 13D) → Cloud Administrator: Got AWS certifications during service. Hired by tech company at $82,000 managing cloud infrastructure. Now senior cloud engineer ($115,000).

Kevin, 29, E-6 (8 years 13D) → IT Manager: Completed bachelor's and MBA (GI Bill). Started as sys admin ($65,000). Now IT manager ($105,000) after 5 years, managing 15-person IT team.

Next Steps: Your Action Plan

This Week:

Choose primary IT path (sys admin, networking, cybersecurity, help desk)
Update resume (emphasize systems, networks, troubleshooting)
Start studying for CompTIA A+ (free resources: Professor Messer)
Connect with 10 IT veterans on LinkedIn
Join r/ITCareerQuestions subreddit

This Month:

Schedule and take CompTIA A+ exam ($246)
Start Network+ or Security+ study
Apply to 10-15 IT positions (help desk, support, junior admin)
Update LinkedIn with certifications
Build home lab (practice Linux/Windows)

Next 3 Months:

Pass Network+ and Security+ exams
Complete 30+ job applications
Apply to SkillBridge (IT roles on base or with contractors)
Start bachelor's degree in IT (GI Bill) if pursuing
Practice interviews and technical questions

Systems Online.

Ready to build your IT transition plan? Use the career planning tools at Military Transition Toolkit to map your technical skills, research IT salaries, and track your certifications.