Army Civilian engineer in hard hat with bridge in background Army Civilian engineer in hard hat with bridge in background

Army Civilians

With a civilian job in the military, you get to work alongside the nation’s Soldiers, bringing a level of expertise and skill that keeps the Army ready for anything.

Army Civilians in suits meet in an office setting Army Civilians in suits meet in an office setting

Civilian Skills Critical to Military Strength

While you may not work in uniform, your contributions as part of the U.S. Army Civilian Corps are just as vital as those who do. As an
Army civilian, the talent and experience you add to the team improves the readiness of our force.

  • Provide mission-essential support
  • Work alongside Soldiers in uniform
  • Hone your talent as a professional

Army Civilian wearing headset and looking at dials while working in aircraft Army Civilian wearing headset and looking at dials while working in aircraft

Hundreds of Civilian Careers Available

Since 1776, the Army has employed civilians to work alongside Soldiers in uniform, filling critical support roles in more than 500 career fields. With more than 330,000 employees, Army Civilian Corps is one of the largest, busiest, and most successful organizations within the Department of Defense.

Army Civilian leans on bookshelf in library setting Army Civilian leans on bookshelf in library setting

A Broad Range of Roles

You might need a specific skillset for some Army civilian careers, while others call for a wider range of skills. In-demand jobs include:

  • Management & Administration
  • Finance & Budget
  • Contracting
  • Cybersecurity & IT
  • Medical & Dental
  • Education & Information Sciences
  • Logistics
  • Security & Intelligence
  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics)

More Opportunities for Civilians in the Army

Army Civilian wearing protective glasses works with lasers and machinery in a lab setting Army Civilian wearing protective glasses works with lasers and machinery in a lab setting

Student Work Programs

Whether you’re in high school, college, or graduate school, the Army civilian careers student work programs can give you the experience and training you need to advance your career.

Army Civilians working in dentistry see to a patient leaning back on the dental chair Army Civilians working in dentistry see to a patient leaning back on the dental chair

The Career Intern Program

The Army civilian career intern program can help develop your leadership skills and advance your career in business, administration, and technology.

Army Civilian family of four sit on couch in home setting Army Civilian family of four sit on couch in home setting

Accommodations for Those with Disabilities

Legally disabled individuals who can still perform essential job duties may qualify for Army civilian careers based on a special appointing authority.

Learn More About the Other Ways to Join the Army

Common Questions About Army Civilians

Do Army civilians have a service commitment?

In most cases, unless you are eligible for and accept a monetary recruitment bonus, relocation bonus, or another similar incentive, you will not be required to commit to a specific number of years of service.

Do you have to pass a physical fitness test to work as an Army civilian?

No, Army civilians are not required to pass a physical fitness test in order to serve.

Do you have to be military to live on base?

Most bases don’t allow government or civilian employees to live on base, mostly due to the number of active-duty members who have priority. However, when bases aren’t able to fill their housing, they may make vacant housing available to certain government employees.

What benefits do Army civilians receive?

You can expect a competitive salary and benefits package designed to offer you a comfortable and secure work-life balance. These benefits include: paid holidays, sick leave, and vacation time; various health and life insurance options; retirement program with matching employer contribution; bonuses, awards, and other incentives for job performance.

If I was previously in the military, can I apply for civilian jobs in the Army?

Yes. As a veteran, you might get preference in hiring over non-veteran applicants. While veterans' preference does not necessarily guarantee you'll be hired, it does help your resume stand out among other applicants.