Military Infantry Officers
Military Career
General Information
Description
Infantry officers lead attacks, defensive operations, and other tactical missions. They are responsible for the discipline, morale, and welfare of their unit's personnel. To fulfill these responsibilities, they evaluate the operational situation and lead their troops in executing offensive and defensive maneuvers.
Work Environment
Because infantry officers must be prepared to lead their troops anywhere in the world that the infantry is needed, they work and train in all climates and weather conditions. During training exercises, as in real combat situations, infantry officers work, eat, and sleep outdoors and in tents. When not in the field, infantry officers perform administrative and management duties in offices.
Workplace at a Glance
What you can expect to experience while on the job
- Responsibility
- Exposure to job hazards
- Physical activity
- Decision making
- Repetitiveness
- Level of competition
- Time pressure
Military Outlook
Service Branches
Jobs in this career field may be available in other service branches. Call or email a particular branch for more info.
Army
Marine Corps
Navy
Air Force
Coast Guard
Space ForceMilitary Status
- Officer
- Managerial/professional
- College degree required
Military Workforce
Infantry Officers in the Military
12,833
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$61,524
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$22,740 - $229,900
What makes up a Military salary?
Military salaries include a lot more than just base pay.
They also offer:
- Housing allowances
- Subsistence allowances
- Special and incentive pays
- Cost-of-living allowances
- Hazardous-duty pay
- Bonuses
Learn more about what goes into a salary with the compensation estimator
Learn more about military insurance and retirement benefits
Education
Military training
Officers typically enter the Military after they have completed a four-year college degree; enlisted service members can transition to officer positions through a variety of pathways and earn a degree while serving. Job training for infantry officers primarily consists of classroom instruction and on-the-job learning in various training environments. Like other officers, they complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development. Job-specific training content may include: Infantry leadership rolesInfantry squad and platoon tacticsModern offensive and defensive combat techniques
Read MoreSkills at a Glance
Skills helpful in this career
- Verbal skills
- Critical thinking & problem solving
- Equipment operation & maintenance
- Math & science skills
- Technology design & control
- Leadership
Related College Majors
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