A particularly promising avenue for retiring military officers is the field of defense contracting. With their hard-won skills, experience, and security clearances, military officers are well-positioned to do extremely well in this industry.

Defense contracting offers a bridge between the military and civilian sectors, allowing veterans to continue serving in a capacity that leverages their expertise. This industry plays a critical role in supporting the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) by providing essential services, products, and technologies.

Here are some fields to research, depending upon your specific background.

1. Project Management

Military officers often have experience leading teams and managing complex projects. Defense contracting firms value these skills for overseeing contracts, ensuring deliverables meet specifications, and managing stakeholder relationships.

2. Logistics and Supply Chain Management

With a background in military logistics, officers can transition into roles focused on supply chain management, procurement, and distribution within defense contracting companies.

3. Technical and Engineering Roles

Military officers with technical or engineering backgrounds can work on developing and implementing advanced technologies, systems, and solutions for defense applications.

4. Consulting and Advisory Services

Retired officers can provide consulting services, advising defense contractors, and government agencies on strategy, operations, compliance, and risk management.

Required Qualifications

Security Clearances

Many defense contracting positions require security clearances due to the sensitive nature of the work. Retiring military officers with active or recently expired clearances (e.g., Secret, Top Secret) have a significant advantage in the job market. Maintaining or renewing security clearances can be crucial for accessing higher-level positions.

Experience

While specific experience requirements vary by position and company, military officers often possess valuable experience in areas such as leadership, operations, project management, and technical expertise. Tailoring your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills can enhance your competitiveness in the job market.

Education and Certifications

Depending on the role, defense contracting companies may require or prefer candidates with specific educational backgrounds or certifications. Pursuing relevant certifications (e.g., Project Management Professional, Certified Supply Chain Professional) can demonstrate your commitment to professional development and enhance your qualifications.

How to Find Opportunities

1. Networking: Utilize your military network, attend industry events, and connect with professionals in the defense contracting sector. Networking can provide insights into available opportunities and help you establish valuable connections within the industry.
2. Online Job Boards and Company Websites: Explore job postings on reputable online job boards (e.g., LinkedIn, Indeed) and defense contracting company websites. Tailor your application materials to align with the job requirements and company culture.
3. Utilize Transition Assistance Programs: Take advantage of resources like the Department of Defense’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) to access career counseling, resume assistance, and job placement services tailored for transitioning military personnel.
4. Work with Recruiters: Consider working with recruiters who specialize in placing veterans in defense contracting roles. Recruiters can help match your skills and experience with suitable opportunities and provide guidance throughout the application process.

Defense Contractor Listing

Several major defense contractors in the United States regularly hire retiring military officers. While the specific hiring needs of these companies can vary over time, here are some well-known defense contractors that have historically shown interest in hiring transitioning military personnel:

1. Lockheed Martin Corporation: A leading aerospace and defense company, Lockheed Martin offers a wide range of opportunities in areas such as aeronautics, missiles and fire control, rotary and mission systems, and space.
2. Boeing Defense, Space & Security: Boeing is a major aerospace and defense contractor that provides products and services in areas including aircraft, satellites, and defense systems. They often seek candidates with military experience for various roles.
3. Northrop Grumman Corporation: Northrop Grumman specializes in aerospace and defense technology, including autonomous systems, cyber solutions, and mission systems. They value the skills and expertise of military veterans and actively recruit from this talent pool.
4. Raytheon Technologies Corporation: Raytheon Technologies is involved in areas such as defense, aerospace, and cybersecurity. They offer opportunities in engineering, operations, program management, and other areas relevant to retiring military officers.
5. General Dynamics Corporation: General Dynamics provides a wide range of products and services in the defense sector, including information technology, marine systems, and combat systems. They frequently hire veterans for roles that align with their military experience.
6. BAE Systems, Inc.: BAE Systems is a global defense, aerospace, and security company that offers opportunities in areas such as electronic systems, intelligence & security, and platforms & services. They actively recruit transitioning military personnel for various positions.
7. Leidos Holdings, Inc.: Leidos is a science and technology company that focuses on areas such as defense, intelligence, civil, and health markets. They value the skills and experience of military veterans and offer opportunities in various fields.
8. CACI International Inc: CACI is a provider of information solutions and services in areas such as defense, intelligence, and cybersecurity. They often seek candidates with military experience for roles that require specialized skills and expertise.
9. L3Harris Technologies, Inc.: L3Harris Technologies is a global aerospace and defense company that offers products and services in areas such as communications, space, and electronic systems. They have a strong commitment to hiring veterans and offer various opportunities for transitioning military personnel.
10. SAIC (Science Applications International Corporation): SAIC is a technology integrator that provides solutions in areas such as defense, space, and intelligence. They actively recruit veterans for roles that align with their military experience and skills.

Please note that the hiring needs and opportunities at these companies can change over time. It’s recommended to research each company’s current job openings, hiring practices, and veteran programs to identify potential opportunities that align with your skills and interests. Additionally, leveraging networking opportunities, attending industry events, and connecting with recruiters specializing in defense contracting can help you explore potential career paths within these organizations.

Conclusion

Defense contracting offers rewarding career opportunities for retiring U.S. military officers, allowing them to continue serving in a civilian capacity that leverages their skills and experience. By understanding the industry landscape, required qualifications, and effective strategies for applying, retiring military officers can successfully transition to fulfilling civilian careers in defense contracting.