Navy ET Electronics Technician to Civilian: Your Complete Career Transition Roadmap (With Salary Data)

Bottom Line Up Front

Navy Electronics Technicians (ET) come out with advanced electronics troubleshooting skills, radar and navigation systems expertise, cryptographic systems knowledge, and security clearances that make you immediately valuable to defense contractors, telecommunications companies, and technology firms. Realistic first-year salaries range from $55,000-$75,000, with experienced technicians and defense contractors hitting $85,000-$120,000+, and specialized roles with Top Secret clearances reaching $130,000+. You'll need some certifications (CompTIA Security+, Network+, GROL) and possibly an associate's or bachelor's degree, but your military clearance and hands-on electronics experience give you a massive advantage.

Let's address the elephant in the room

When you start looking at civilian careers as an ET, you'll see conflicting advice: "Electronics is dying." "You need a computer science degree." "Defense contracting is unstable."

Here's what that misses: Your clearance and specialized electronics experience are in massive demand.

As a Navy Electronics Technician, you:

Maintained and repaired radar, navigation, cryptographic, and C4I systems worth $5 million+
Troubleshot complex electronic systems using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and spectrum analyzers
Worked with classified systems requiring Top Secret clearances
Performed preventive and corrective maintenance on mission-critical equipment
Read and interpreted technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system documentation
Worked 24/7 operational schedules with zero tolerance for downtime
Calibrated and aligned precision electronic systems
Managed parts inventory and documented all maintenance actions

That's systems-level thinking, security-cleared technical expertise, mission-critical reliability, and proven troubleshooting under pressure. Defense contractors, telecommunications firms, aerospace companies, and government agencies are actively recruiting veterans with exactly your background.

Best civilian career paths for Navy ETs

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where ETs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Defense contractors (highest pay with clearance)

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician (defense)
Radar systems technician
Communications systems technician
Field service technician
Weapons systems technician
C4ISR technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level with Secret clearance: $65,000-$80,000
Experienced with Secret clearance: $80,000-$100,000
Top Secret clearance roles: $95,000-$125,000
Specialized systems (AEGIS, radar, EW): $105,000-$145,000+
Overseas contractor positions: $120,000-$180,000

What translates directly:

Radar and navigation systems maintenance
Cryptographic equipment troubleshooting
C4I and communications systems
Technical documentation and reporting
Security protocols and cleared facility operations
Test equipment operation (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, multimeters)

Certifications needed:

Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (maintain your clearance—worth $15K-$30K in salary premium)
CompTIA Security+ (required by DoD 8570 for many contracts) - Cost: $392
CompTIA A+ (foundation cert) - Cost: $506 for both exams
Manufacturer-specific training (Raytheon, Northrop, Lockheed provide on-the-job)

Reality check: Defense contracting is where ETs make the most money, especially with active clearances. Companies like Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, General Dynamics, and L3Harris are constantly hiring veterans with ET backgrounds.

The work is similar to what you did in the Navy—maintaining radar, communications, weapons systems, and electronics. You'll support Navy ships, aircraft, and shore installations, often working directly alongside active duty personnel.

Clearance is king. A Top Secret clearance can add $20K-$40K to your base salary. If you have TS/SCI, you're looking at six-figure offers immediately.

Best for: ETs who want to keep working on military systems, maximize earning potential, and leverage security clearances.

Companies actively hiring veterans:

Raytheon Technologies (RTX)
Northrop Grumman
Lockheed Martin
BAE Systems
General Dynamics
L3Harris Technologies
Booz Allen Hamilton
CACI International
Leidos

Telecommunications (stable long-term careers)

Civilian job titles:

Telecommunications technician
Network technician
Field service technician
Radio frequency (RF) technician
Fiber optics technician
Wireless network engineer

Salary ranges:

Entry-level telecom technician: $45,000-$60,000
Experienced field technician: $60,000-$78,000
RF/wireless specialist: $70,000-$90,000
Senior network engineer: $85,000-$110,000
Telecommunications manager: $95,000-$125,000

What translates directly:

Radio and communications systems troubleshooting
Antenna and transmission systems
Signal analysis and RF testing
Cable installation and termination
Network infrastructure maintenance
Test equipment operation

Certifications needed:

FCC GROL (General Radiotelephone Operator License) - Cost: $100-$150 (lifetime license, no renewal)
CompTIA Network+ - Cost: $369
Fiber optics certification (FOA CFOT) - Cost: $400-$800
Manufacturer certs (Cisco, Juniper) - Cost: $300-$500 per exam
CDL Class B (for some field tech roles) - Cost: $2,000-$4,000

Reality check: Telecommunications companies like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Crown Castle actively recruit veterans. These are stable, recession-resistant careers with strong benefits.

AT&T has an ERG (Employee Resource Group) for veterans with over 8,000 members. Verizon employs over 10,000 veterans. Both companies offer structured career paths from field technician to network engineer to management.

The work involves installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting cell towers, fiber optic networks, and telecommunications infrastructure. Expect field work, climbing towers (if wireless), and on-call rotations. Work-life balance is generally better than military, and overtime opportunities exist.

Best for: ETs who want stability, strong benefits, clear advancement paths, and work that keeps them in the field troubleshooting technical problems.

Companies actively hiring:

AT&T
Verizon
T-Mobile
Crown Castle
American Tower Corporation
Comcast
Charter Communications (Spectrum)
Dish Network

Electronics repair and calibration

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician (commercial)
Calibration technician
Biomedical equipment technician (BMET)
Avionics technician
Industrial electronics technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level electronics tech: $48,000-$60,000
Calibration technician: $55,000-$75,000
Biomedical equipment tech: $60,000-$80,000
Avionics technician: $65,000-$85,000
Senior industrial tech: $75,000-$95,000

What translates directly:

Test equipment operation and calibration
Circuit board troubleshooting and repair
Technical documentation and procedures
Preventive maintenance programs
Quality control and standards compliance

Certifications needed:

IPC certification (for circuit board repair) - Cost: $500-$1,500
A2LA/ISO 17025 calibration training - Cost: $1,000-$2,500
CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician) - Cost: $300-$500
FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) (for avionics path) - Cost: $10,000-$30,000 but covered by GI Bill

Reality check: This path lets you use your electronics troubleshooting skills in commercial sectors—hospitals (biomedical equipment), aerospace (avionics), manufacturing (industrial controls), and calibration labs.

Calibration technicians work in metrology labs maintaining and calibrating test equipment for companies that need ISO/ANSI standards compliance. It's precision work in climate-controlled environments. Less exciting than military work, but stable with good pay.

Biomedical equipment technicians maintain hospital equipment (MRI machines, patient monitors, X-ray systems, ventilators). Healthcare is recession-proof, and demand for BMETs is growing. You'll need CBET certification, but your ET background gives you the foundation.

Best for: ETs who want stable, indoor, technical work with normal business hours and less stress than military operations.

Companies and sectors hiring:

Hospitals and healthcare systems (BMET roles)
Calibration labs (Transcat, Tektronix, Fluke)
Aerospace companies (Boeing, Airbus, GE Aviation)
Manufacturing plants (automotive, electronics, aerospace)
Government metrology labs (NIST, DoD calibration facilities)

IT and cybersecurity (growing field)

Civilian job titles:

IT support specialist
Network administrator
Cybersecurity analyst
Systems administrator
Information security specialist

Salary ranges:

Entry-level IT support: $45,000-$60,000
Network administrator: $60,000-$80,000
Cybersecurity analyst: $75,000-$100,000
Senior systems administrator: $85,000-$110,000
Information security manager: $100,000-$140,000

What translates directly:

Network troubleshooting and configuration
Information security protocols
Cryptographic systems knowledge
System maintenance and documentation
Security clearance and classified systems experience

Certifications needed:

CompTIA A+ (foundation) - Cost: $506
CompTIA Network+ - Cost: $369
CompTIA Security+ (DoD 8570 baseline) - Cost: $392
Cisco CCNA (for network roles) - Cost: $300
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or CISSP (advanced) - Cost: $500-$700

Reality check: Many ETs successfully pivot into IT and cybersecurity roles because your electronics background, systems thinking, and clearance translate well.

You'll need to upskill on IT-specific technologies (Windows Server, Active Directory, cloud platforms like AWS/Azure, cybersecurity tools). But veteran-friendly training programs exist, and many are covered by GI Bill.

The cybersecurity field has massive talent shortages. Government contractors need cleared cybersecurity professionals. Your TS clearance + Security+ cert can land you a $80K-$100K cybersecurity analyst role immediately.

This path requires more self-study and certification work upfront, but long-term earning potential is excellent, work-life balance is better, and remote work options exist.

Best for: ETs who want to pivot into IT, prefer working with networks and servers over hardware, and want remote work flexibility.

Companies and sectors hiring:

Government contractors (cleared IT roles)
Cybersecurity firms (Mandiant, CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks)
Tech companies (Microsoft, Amazon, Google)
Financial services (banks, credit card companies)
Managed service providers (MSPs)

Federal government (non-contractor)

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician (GS-0856)
Telecommunications specialist (GS-0391)
IT specialist (GS-2210)
Engineering technician (GS-0802)
Logistics management specialist (GS-0346)

Salary ranges:

GS-7 to GS-9 (entry with military experience): $52,000-$72,000
GS-11 to GS-12 (mid-level): $75,000-$95,000
GS-13+ (senior roles): $95,000-$120,000
Locality pay adjustments: +15% to +35% in high-cost areas

What translates directly:

Electronics maintenance and troubleshooting
Government systems and procedures
Security protocols and clearances
Technical documentation standards
Equipment accountability

Certifications needed:

Security clearance (if not active, government will sponsor)
CompTIA Security+ (for DoD IT roles)
Relevant degree or equivalent experience (associate's preferred)

Reality check: Federal civilian positions offer the best benefits—pension (FERS), TSP matching, health insurance, job security, and work-life balance. Pay is moderate compared to defense contractors, but total compensation (salary + benefits + pension) is competitive.

Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points in the hiring process. Positions at Navy depots, shipyards, air stations, and DoD facilities need electronics technicians to maintain military equipment.

The hiring process is slow (4-8 months typical), and you'll navigate USAJobs.gov bureaucracy, but once you're in, it's stable long-term employment with clear advancement through GS pay scale.

Best for: ETs who want federal benefits, pension, job security, and predictable schedules over maximum salary.

Where to look:

Navy depots and shipyards (Norfolk, San Diego, Bremerton, Pearl Harbor)
Air Force bases and depots
Army arsenals and depots
DHS, TSA, CBP (electronics and IT roles)
VA medical centers (BMET roles)

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Navy Electronics Technician" on your resume. Translate your military experience into civilian-friendly language:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
Maintained radar and navigation systems	Troubleshot and repaired radar, GPS, and navigation electronics on mission-critical systems valued at $5M+
Performed preventive maintenance on C4I systems	Executed scheduled maintenance on Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence systems with 99%+ uptime
Operated test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, spectrum analyzers)	Utilized advanced test equipment including oscilloscopes, RF spectrum analyzers, and multimeters for precision diagnostics
Worked with cryptographic equipment	Maintained and repaired classified cryptographic systems requiring Top Secret security clearance
Troubleshot complex electronics systems	Diagnosed and resolved complex electronic failures using systematic troubleshooting methodologies
Read technical schematics and wiring diagrams	Interpreted technical documentation including schematics, wiring diagrams, and system architecture drawings
Security clearance holder	Active Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI)
Shift work / 24/7 operations	Maintained operational availability across 24/7 watch schedules with on-call emergency response

Use active verbs: Troubleshot, Maintained, Repaired, Diagnosed, Calibrated, Tested, Installed.

Use numbers: "Maintained 15+ radar and navigation systems," "Achieved 99.5% equipment uptime," "Managed $500K parts inventory."

Highlight your clearance prominently. Put it in your resume summary, skills section, and work experience. Clearance is worth $15K-$30K in salary premium for many roles.

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these first):

CompTIA Security+ - Required by DoD Directive 8570 for many defense contractor IT roles. Non-negotiable if you want cleared IT or cybersecurity work. Cost: $392. Time: 2-3 months of study. Value: Opens doors to $75K-$100K cleared positions immediately.

CompTIA A+ - Foundation IT certification that validates basic computer hardware and software troubleshooting. Cost: $506 (two exams). Time: 1-2 months. Value: Entry ticket to IT roles; required by many employers.

CompTIA Network+ - Validates networking knowledge and troubleshooting. Cost: $369. Time: 1-2 months. Value: Required or preferred for network technician and telecommunications roles.

FCC GROL (General Radiotelephone Operator License) - Lifetime FCC license for working on radio and communications equipment. Cost: $100-$150 (exam + FCC fee). Time: 2-4 weeks of study. Value: Required for many telecommunications and broadcast engineering roles.

Medium priority (get these for advancement):

Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Electronics Engineering Technology - Positions you for engineer-level roles and management. Cost: $0 with GI Bill. Time: 2-4 years. Value: Required for many senior positions; opens management track.

Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) - Industry-standard networking certification. Cost: $300. Time: 3-6 months. Value: Required for many network engineer and telecommunications roles.

CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician) - If targeting healthcare BMET path. Cost: $300-$500. Time: 3-6 months. Value: Required for hospital biomedical equipment roles.

ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) - For industrial electronics and automation. Cost: $400-$600. Time: 3-6 months. Value: Opens industrial manufacturing technician roles.

Low priority (nice to have, not critical early on):

CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional) - Advanced cybersecurity cert requiring 5 years experience. Cost: $700. Time: 6+ months. Value: Long-term goal for senior cybersecurity roles.

PMP (Project Management Professional) - For moving into technical program management. Cost: $500-$3,000. Time: 6+ months. Value: Useful if transitioning to project management but not critical for technician roles.

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

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

Commercial vs. military systems: Civilian systems use different standards, protocols, and equipment than military. You'll need to learn commercial telecommunications standards, IT networking protocols, and civilian-sector test equipment.

Customer service and communication: Military technicians work with other military personnel. Civilian roles involve customers, clients, contractors, and non-technical managers. You'll need to explain technical issues in non-technical language and manage customer expectations.

Business software and documentation: Most companies use ticketing systems (ServiceNow, Remedy), project management tools (Jira, Asana), and Microsoft Office suite extensively. Get comfortable with these tools.

Civilian workplace culture: Military work culture is direct and hierarchical. Civilian workplaces vary widely—some are casual, some formal, some have matrix management. Adapt your communication style and learn workplace politics.

Continuing education mindset: Technology changes fast. You'll need to stay current with certifications, manufacturer training, and industry trends. Budget time and money for ongoing professional development.

Real Navy ET success stories

Tyler, 27, former ET2 → Radar technician at Raytheon

Tyler did 6 years, two deployments, maintained AEGIS radar and fire control systems. Got out as an E-5 with active Secret clearance. Applied to Raytheon, got hired as radar systems technician supporting DDG ships at $82K. After 3 years and getting Top Secret clearance, now makes $105K supporting classified systems.

Samantha, 29, former ET1 → Field service technician at AT&T

Samantha served 8 years working on communications and navigation systems. Took FCC GROL exam while on terminal leave. Got hired by AT&T as field service technician at $58K. Worked hard, got Network+ and fiber optics certs. Promoted to wireless network engineer after 2 years, now makes $78K with company truck and benefits. Work-life balance is much better than Navy.

Jason, 31, former ET1 → Cybersecurity analyst (defense contractor)

Jason did 9 years, got out as an E-6 with TS/SCI clearance. Used GI Bill to get bachelor's in IT while working part-time. Got Security+, Network+, and CEH certifications. Landed cleared cybersecurity analyst role with Booz Allen Hamilton at $95K. After 4 years, now makes $118K as senior analyst. Works mostly remote.

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do when you transition:

Month 1: Assessment and clearance management

Update your resume highlighting clearance, systems, and technical skills
Get your DD-214 and keep 10 copies
Maintain your security clearance (accept a cleared position within 2 years or it expires)
Document all systems, equipment, and certifications you worked on
Set up LinkedIn profile emphasizing clearance and electronics expertise
Apply for VA disability if you haven't already

Month 2: Certifications and job search

Get CompTIA Security+ (required for most defense contractor roles)
Get CompTIA A+ and Network+ if targeting IT/telecom roles
Get FCC GROL if targeting telecommunications
Apply to 20+ jobs per week targeting defense contractors and telecommunications
Register on ClearanceJobs.com (for cleared positions)
Attend veteran job fairs (RTX, Northrop, Lockheed all recruit at these)
Connect with veteran recruiters at Orion Talent, Hire Heroes USA, RecruitMilitary

Month 3: Network and interview

Tailor resume for each application (use keywords: clearance, radar, C4I, specific systems)
Practice interview answers focusing on troubleshooting examples, technical expertise, clearance
Emphasize systems you worked on (AEGIS, SPS-67, SPS-73, WSN-7, specific equipment)
Follow up on applications (recruiters move fast in defense sector)
Network with other Navy ETs on LinkedIn
Consider contract-to-hire positions if you haven't landed full-time role

Bottom line for Navy ETs

Your Navy Electronics Technician experience is a high-demand skillset.

You've maintained mission-critical systems worth millions, troubleshot complex electronics under pressure, worked with classified equipment, and held security clearances that take civilians 12+ months to obtain. Defense contractors, telecommunications companies, and federal agencies need exactly what you bring.

Defense contracting, telecommunications, electronics repair, IT/cybersecurity, and federal civilian service are proven paths. Thousands of ETs have successfully transitioned before you.

First-year income of $55K-$75K is realistic. With active clearance and certifications, $80K-$100K is achievable immediately. Within 3-5 years, $100K-$120K+ is common for defense contractors and senior telecommunications roles.

Your clearance is worth $15K-$30K in salary premium. Maintain it. Don't let it lapse.

The defense industry, telecommunications sector, and IT field all have talent shortages. Your military electronics experience, clearance, and proven reliability make you a top-tier candidate.

Don't let anyone tell you electronics technicians are obsolete. They don't understand the demand for cleared, experienced technicians.

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

Bottom Line Up Front

Let's address the elephant in the room

When you start looking at civilian careers as an ET, you'll see conflicting advice: "Electronics is dying." "You need a computer science degree." "Defense contracting is unstable."

Here's what that misses: Your clearance and specialized electronics experience are in massive demand.

As a Navy Electronics Technician, you:

Maintained and repaired radar, navigation, cryptographic, and C4I systems worth $5 million+
Troubleshot complex electronic systems using oscilloscopes, multimeters, and spectrum analyzers
Worked with classified systems requiring Top Secret clearances
Performed preventive and corrective maintenance on mission-critical equipment
Read and interpreted technical schematics, wiring diagrams, and system documentation
Worked 24/7 operational schedules with zero tolerance for downtime
Calibrated and aligned precision electronic systems
Managed parts inventory and documented all maintenance actions

Best civilian career paths for Navy ETs

Let's get specific. Here are the fields where ETs consistently land, with real 2024-2025 salary data.

Defense contractors (highest pay with clearance)

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician (defense)
Radar systems technician
Communications systems technician
Field service technician
Weapons systems technician
C4ISR technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level with Secret clearance: $65,000-$80,000
Experienced with Secret clearance: $80,000-$100,000
Top Secret clearance roles: $95,000-$125,000
Specialized systems (AEGIS, radar, EW): $105,000-$145,000+
Overseas contractor positions: $120,000-$180,000

What translates directly:

Radar and navigation systems maintenance
Cryptographic equipment troubleshooting
C4I and communications systems
Technical documentation and reporting
Security protocols and cleared facility operations
Test equipment operation (oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, multimeters)

Certifications needed:

Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (maintain your clearance—worth $15K-$30K in salary premium)
CompTIA Security+ (required by DoD 8570 for many contracts) - Cost: $392
CompTIA A+ (foundation cert) - Cost: $506 for both exams
Manufacturer-specific training (Raytheon, Northrop, Lockheed provide on-the-job)

Clearance is king. A Top Secret clearance can add $20K-$40K to your base salary. If you have TS/SCI, you're looking at six-figure offers immediately.

Best for: ETs who want to keep working on military systems, maximize earning potential, and leverage security clearances.

Companies actively hiring veterans:

Raytheon Technologies (RTX)
Northrop Grumman
Lockheed Martin
BAE Systems
General Dynamics
L3Harris Technologies
Booz Allen Hamilton
CACI International
Leidos

Telecommunications (stable long-term careers)

Civilian job titles:

Telecommunications technician
Network technician
Field service technician
Radio frequency (RF) technician
Fiber optics technician
Wireless network engineer

Salary ranges:

Entry-level telecom technician: $45,000-$60,000
Experienced field technician: $60,000-$78,000
RF/wireless specialist: $70,000-$90,000
Senior network engineer: $85,000-$110,000
Telecommunications manager: $95,000-$125,000

What translates directly:

Radio and communications systems troubleshooting
Antenna and transmission systems
Signal analysis and RF testing
Cable installation and termination
Network infrastructure maintenance
Test equipment operation

Certifications needed:

FCC GROL (General Radiotelephone Operator License) - Cost: $100-$150 (lifetime license, no renewal)
CompTIA Network+ - Cost: $369
Fiber optics certification (FOA CFOT) - Cost: $400-$800
Manufacturer certs (Cisco, Juniper) - Cost: $300-$500 per exam
CDL Class B (for some field tech roles) - Cost: $2,000-$4,000

Reality check: Telecommunications companies like AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Crown Castle actively recruit veterans. These are stable, recession-resistant careers with strong benefits.

Best for: ETs who want stability, strong benefits, clear advancement paths, and work that keeps them in the field troubleshooting technical problems.

Companies actively hiring:

AT&T
Verizon
T-Mobile
Crown Castle
American Tower Corporation
Comcast
Charter Communications (Spectrum)
Dish Network

Electronics repair and calibration

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician (commercial)
Calibration technician
Biomedical equipment technician (BMET)
Avionics technician
Industrial electronics technician

Salary ranges:

Entry-level electronics tech: $48,000-$60,000
Calibration technician: $55,000-$75,000
Biomedical equipment tech: $60,000-$80,000
Avionics technician: $65,000-$85,000
Senior industrial tech: $75,000-$95,000

What translates directly:

Test equipment operation and calibration
Circuit board troubleshooting and repair
Technical documentation and procedures
Preventive maintenance programs
Quality control and standards compliance

Certifications needed:

IPC certification (for circuit board repair) - Cost: $500-$1,500
A2LA/ISO 17025 calibration training - Cost: $1,000-$2,500
CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician) - Cost: $300-$500
FAA Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) (for avionics path) - Cost: $10,000-$30,000 but covered by GI Bill

Best for: ETs who want stable, indoor, technical work with normal business hours and less stress than military operations.

Companies and sectors hiring:

Hospitals and healthcare systems (BMET roles)
Calibration labs (Transcat, Tektronix, Fluke)
Aerospace companies (Boeing, Airbus, GE Aviation)
Manufacturing plants (automotive, electronics, aerospace)
Government metrology labs (NIST, DoD calibration facilities)

IT and cybersecurity (growing field)

Civilian job titles:

IT support specialist
Network administrator
Cybersecurity analyst
Systems administrator
Information security specialist

Salary ranges:

Entry-level IT support: $45,000-$60,000
Network administrator: $60,000-$80,000
Cybersecurity analyst: $75,000-$100,000
Senior systems administrator: $85,000-$110,000
Information security manager: $100,000-$140,000

What translates directly:

Network troubleshooting and configuration
Information security protocols
Cryptographic systems knowledge
System maintenance and documentation
Security clearance and classified systems experience

Certifications needed:

CompTIA A+ (foundation) - Cost: $506
CompTIA Network+ - Cost: $369
CompTIA Security+ (DoD 8570 baseline) - Cost: $392
Cisco CCNA (for network roles) - Cost: $300
CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker) or CISSP (advanced) - Cost: $500-$700

Reality check: Many ETs successfully pivot into IT and cybersecurity roles because your electronics background, systems thinking, and clearance translate well.

This path requires more self-study and certification work upfront, but long-term earning potential is excellent, work-life balance is better, and remote work options exist.

Best for: ETs who want to pivot into IT, prefer working with networks and servers over hardware, and want remote work flexibility.

Companies and sectors hiring:

Government contractors (cleared IT roles)
Cybersecurity firms (Mandiant, CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks)
Tech companies (Microsoft, Amazon, Google)
Financial services (banks, credit card companies)
Managed service providers (MSPs)

Federal government (non-contractor)

Civilian job titles:

Electronics technician (GS-0856)
Telecommunications specialist (GS-0391)
IT specialist (GS-2210)
Engineering technician (GS-0802)
Logistics management specialist (GS-0346)

Salary ranges:

GS-7 to GS-9 (entry with military experience): $52,000-$72,000
GS-11 to GS-12 (mid-level): $75,000-$95,000
GS-13+ (senior roles): $95,000-$120,000
Locality pay adjustments: +15% to +35% in high-cost areas

What translates directly:

Electronics maintenance and troubleshooting
Government systems and procedures
Security protocols and clearances
Technical documentation standards
Equipment accountability

Certifications needed:

Security clearance (if not active, government will sponsor)
CompTIA Security+ (for DoD IT roles)
Relevant degree or equivalent experience (associate's preferred)

Veteran preference gives you 5-10 points in the hiring process. Positions at Navy depots, shipyards, air stations, and DoD facilities need electronics technicians to maintain military equipment.

The hiring process is slow (4-8 months typical), and you'll navigate USAJobs.gov bureaucracy, but once you're in, it's stable long-term employment with clear advancement through GS pay scale.

Best for: ETs who want federal benefits, pension, job security, and predictable schedules over maximum salary.

Where to look:

Navy depots and shipyards (Norfolk, San Diego, Bremerton, Pearl Harbor)
Air Force bases and depots
Army arsenals and depots
DHS, TSA, CBP (electronics and IT roles)
VA medical centers (BMET roles)

Skills translation table (for your resume)

Stop writing "Navy Electronics Technician" on your resume. Translate your military experience into civilian-friendly language:

Military Experience	Civilian Translation
Maintained radar and navigation systems	Troubleshot and repaired radar, GPS, and navigation electronics on mission-critical systems valued at $5M+
Performed preventive maintenance on C4I systems	Executed scheduled maintenance on Command, Control, Communications, and Intelligence systems with 99%+ uptime
Operated test equipment (oscilloscopes, multimeters, spectrum analyzers)	Utilized advanced test equipment including oscilloscopes, RF spectrum analyzers, and multimeters for precision diagnostics
Worked with cryptographic equipment	Maintained and repaired classified cryptographic systems requiring Top Secret security clearance
Troubleshot complex electronics systems	Diagnosed and resolved complex electronic failures using systematic troubleshooting methodologies
Read technical schematics and wiring diagrams	Interpreted technical documentation including schematics, wiring diagrams, and system architecture drawings
Security clearance holder	Active Top Secret security clearance with eligibility for Sensitive Compartmented Information (TS/SCI)
Shift work / 24/7 operations	Maintained operational availability across 24/7 watch schedules with on-call emergency response

Use active verbs: Troubleshot, Maintained, Repaired, Diagnosed, Calibrated, Tested, Installed.

Use numbers: "Maintained 15+ radar and navigation systems," "Achieved 99.5% equipment uptime," "Managed $500K parts inventory."

Highlight your clearance prominently. Put it in your resume summary, skills section, and work experience. Clearance is worth $15K-$30K in salary premium for many roles.

Certifications that actually matter

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

High priority (get these first):

CompTIA Network+ - Validates networking knowledge and troubleshooting. Cost: $369. Time: 1-2 months. Value: Required or preferred for network technician and telecommunications roles.

Medium priority (get these for advancement):

Cisco CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) - Industry-standard networking certification. Cost: $300. Time: 3-6 months. Value: Required for many network engineer and telecommunications roles.

CBET (Certified Biomedical Equipment Technician) - If targeting healthcare BMET path. Cost: $300-$500. Time: 3-6 months. Value: Required for hospital biomedical equipment roles.

ISA Certified Control Systems Technician (CCST) - For industrial electronics and automation. Cost: $400-$600. Time: 3-6 months. Value: Opens industrial manufacturing technician roles.

Low priority (nice to have, not critical early on):

The skills gap (what you need to learn)

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

Real Navy ET success stories

Tyler, 27, former ET2 → Radar technician at Raytheon

Samantha, 29, former ET1 → Field service technician at AT&T

Jason, 31, former ET1 → Cybersecurity analyst (defense contractor)

Action plan: your first 90 days out

Here's what to actually do when you transition:

Month 1: Assessment and clearance management

Update your resume highlighting clearance, systems, and technical skills
Get your DD-214 and keep 10 copies
Maintain your security clearance (accept a cleared position within 2 years or it expires)
Document all systems, equipment, and certifications you worked on
Set up LinkedIn profile emphasizing clearance and electronics expertise
Apply for VA disability if you haven't already

Month 2: Certifications and job search

Get CompTIA Security+ (required for most defense contractor roles)
Get CompTIA A+ and Network+ if targeting IT/telecom roles
Get FCC GROL if targeting telecommunications
Apply to 20+ jobs per week targeting defense contractors and telecommunications
Register on ClearanceJobs.com (for cleared positions)
Attend veteran job fairs (RTX, Northrop, Lockheed all recruit at these)
Connect with veteran recruiters at Orion Talent, Hire Heroes USA, RecruitMilitary

Month 3: Network and interview

Tailor resume for each application (use keywords: clearance, radar, C4I, specific systems)
Practice interview answers focusing on troubleshooting examples, technical expertise, clearance
Emphasize systems you worked on (AEGIS, SPS-67, SPS-73, WSN-7, specific equipment)
Follow up on applications (recruiters move fast in defense sector)
Network with other Navy ETs on LinkedIn
Consider contract-to-hire positions if you haven't landed full-time role

Bottom line for Navy ETs

Your Navy Electronics Technician experience is a high-demand skillset.

Defense contracting, telecommunications, electronics repair, IT/cybersecurity, and federal civilian service are proven paths. Thousands of ETs have successfully transitioned before you.

Your clearance is worth $15K-$30K in salary premium. Maintain it. Don't let it lapse.

The defense industry, telecommunications sector, and IT field all have talent shortages. Your military electronics experience, clearance, and proven reliability make you a top-tier candidate.

Don't let anyone tell you electronics technicians are obsolete. They don't understand the demand for cleared, experienced technicians.

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