When sending out job applications, few think to connect with the military. Though we don’t expect that trend to last much longer. Not only does the military have an abundance of high–paying and rewarding positions available, but most jobs are attached to lucrative sign up bonuses and enough five-star benefits to make even the most generous tech companies pale in comparison.
A career in the U.S. Army can mean big things for you now and long into the future. Professional skill development, education funding, enlistment bonuses, and competitive wages round out an exceptionally long list of pros. Today, we’re going to explore why military jobs are in such high demand right now.
M_Agency/ShutterstockEnlistment Bonuses
Not only does the Army have an abundance of available jobs, but new recruits are regularly granted enlistment bonuses that max out at $50k. There are a variety of different bonuses immediately available to new recruits, alot of which can be combined to create a customized enlistment package of up to $50,000.1
Active enlistment bonuses include:
Active Army Enlistment Bonus
A bonus of up to $50K available to qualified full-time recruits on signing a three, four, five, or six-year contract.
Quick Ship Bonus
A bonus of up to $40K for new recruits that report to basic training within 30 days of enlistment.
Job Signing Bonus
A bonus of up to $40K for filling in-demand jobs.
Army Reserve Enlistement Bonus
A bonus of up to $20K for qualified Army Reserve recruits.
Civilian Acquired Skills Bonus
A bonus of up to $40K for Army applicants who already possess, or are interested in gaining specific in-demand skills.
Benefits for Recruits Under 50
It doesn’t take a lot of research to understand that the Army is on the hunt for recruits under the age of 50. Just look at how much they’re investing in the sorts of benefits that attract recruits in that age bracket.2
There are far too many benefits to list here in full, but below you’ll find a selection of some of the most attractive benefits for those under 50:
- Enlistment bonuses of up to 50K.
- Up to full coverage for qualified college tuition.
- Low or no cost healthcare.
- Child care options.
- Better home loan rates.
- 30 days paid time off every year for full-time recruits.
- Paid parental leave for new parents.
- Travel discounts.
Again, the list above is far from comprehensive. It is important to note that all of the above benefits are made more impressive when you realize that they’re provided to recruits in addition to their agreed upon base salary.
Benefits for Recruits Over 50
Don’t be mistaken into believing that the Army isn’t also interested in older recruits. Just have a look at the benefits tailored to suit Americans over the age of 50:
- Enlistment bonuses of up to 50K.
- 30 days paid time off every year for full-time recruits.
- Tuition assistance and loan repayment.
- Education and training benefits.
- Retirement and pension plan options.
- High quality health care.
- Youth programs, sports, and community groups for children up to 18 years old.
Whether you’re looking for a change, or just trying to make the most out of the skills you’ve attained over your professional career, consider the military. Granted, it’s hard not to seriously consider a career in the United States Army after reading about the countless benefits available to recruits both young and old.3
Where To Find Military Jobs
You don’t have to go far to find opportunities. The careers and jobs page of the Army’s website is a launch pad into your exploration of over 200 jobs covering a staggering variety of specializations.4 Seek out positions that interest you, or fill out a quiz and get personalized help and suggestions.
You don’t have to commit full time either. Army Reserve soldiers serve just one weekend a month and two weeks a year, and still qualify for many of the benefits we’ve covered today. Getting in touch with a recruiter, and getting your questions answered, has never been easier either.
Go Army
Trying to find a catch? We don’t blame you. The meaningful list of benefits, sign-up bonuses, and enlistment incentives truly does seem too good to be true. But nobody said you had to take our word for it. You’re free to visit the U.S. Army website and read the not-so-fine print yourself.
In truth, we couldn’t even fit all of the incredible benefits they offer in just one article. The Army’s job board should give you plenty of interest to look over too. And if you don’t even know where to start, their website has a handy career match quiz designed to help guide you in the right direction.
