Information Assurance Technician

“You'll be responsible for the cybersecurity of Marine Corps information systems — the person who ensures that classified and sensitive networks meet DoD standards and that the systems the Marine Corps relies on are actually secure. Information assurance combines technical security skills with policy compliance, and the clearance plus the cyber background is one of the most in-demand combinations in the defense sector.”

You will spend a significant portion of your career ensuring that Marines and their commands are in compliance with cybersecurity standards that were written by people who did not have to implement them operationally. STIGs, RMF accreditation packages, SAAR forms, and security training records that are perpetually incomplete — these are your daily companions. The technical cybersecurity skills are real and valuable. The DoD 8570 / 8140 certification requirements mean you will collect CompTIA Security+, CAP, and eventually higher-level certifications that have direct civilian market value. Cybersecurity is one of the strongest military-to-civilian career transitions available, and IA Marines with operational experience and certifications can command strong compensation after separation.