Transportation Managers (Officer)
Opportunities
Transportation managers oversee all procedures related to the movement of military-related personnel and material. They plan and coordinate all functions involved in the successful movement of material, personnel, or personal property via water, air, highway, rail, and multi-modal transport systems. They direct procurement efforts and assess transportation capabilities.
Training Provided
Job training for transportation officers requires completion of the Transportation Basic Officer Leader Course, where they learn leadership skills, tactics, maintenance and operational aspects of weapons and vehicles. Transportation managers in the Military will gain skills through classes and on-the-job experience.
- Ways to work with civilian and other military service carriers
- Freight classifications
- Applicable military policies and federal/local laws
- Handling of special items, such as medicine and explosives
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. Officers complete a comprehensive training program covering responsibilities, military structure and etiquette, traditions, and leadership development.
Earnings
Officers in the military can progress through ten officer pay grades during their careers. Pay grade and length of service determine an officer's pay. Most newly commissioned officers begin at pay grade O-1 ($45,912/year basic pay in 2024). With certain professional qualifications, officers may enter at a higher pay grade. After two years, officers generally move up to O-2 ($60,252/year basic pay in 2024). After an additional two years, the military generally promotes officers to O-3 ($81,672/year basic pay in 2024) if job performance and other requirements are met. Cost-of-living increases usually occur once a year. Many officers and their families live free of charge in military housing on the base where they are assigned. Those living off base receive a housing allowance in addition to their basic pay. Officers also receive a monthly food allowance. These allowances, and associated tax savings, are substantial additions to basic pay. Other employment benefits for military officers include free health care, 30 days paid vacation each year, legal assistance, education assistance, military store privileges, and an excellent retirement program.
Services offering this occupation
Army
Coast Guard
Marine Corps
Navy