Military Life Scientists
Military Career
General Information
Description
Life scientists manage quality assurance programs and lead research related to human health protection. They study the effects of stimuli and other environmental factors on physiological processes, and the impact of microorganisms on human bodily functions and overall human health. They perform sanitation inspections to ensure military food safety, and provide consultation on issues regarding microbiological effects on subsistence. They assist in epidemiological investigations and direct training on food safety.
Explore this career outside the MilitaryWork Environment
Life scientists work in medical, clinical, and research laboratories and, at times, in food processing or storage plants. They may work outdoors while conducting field work on land or aboard ships.
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
Comparable Industries
- Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics
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
Life Scientists in the Military
1,559
Salary
Salary Information
Median Military Salary This is the median, or the midpoint, of the salary range for this career.
$93,588
Military Salary Range Salary varies based on years of service, degree level, special pays, family status and location. Learn more about Military benefits.
$29,299 - $259,959
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
Most Common Education Levels
People in this career achieve this level of education.
-
Bachelor's degree 47%
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High school 21%
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Master's degree 13%
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Post baccalaureate 12%
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Doctoral degree 3%
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Some college 0%
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Associate's degree 0%
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Less than high school 0%
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Post-doctoral training 0%
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Post-master's certificate 0%
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First professional degree 0%
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Post-secondary certificate 0%
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 life scientists 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: Altitude physiologyAero medical aspects of flightSensory physiologyEmergency egressWater survivalLife support systems
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
Knowledge
- English Language
- Administrative
- Biology
- Computers and Electronics
- Customer and Personal Service
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