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Top 5 Best Paid Jobs for UK Veterans in 2025
Created on 1 Jul 2025
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Updated on 23 Oct 2025
Leaving the military doesn’t mean starting from scratch.
In fact, veterans often have an edge — leadership, discipline, strategy, and resilience — that employers are crying out for.
In 2025, UK employers are actively seeking veterans for some of the highest-paid, fastest-growing careers on the market.
We’ve listed the five sectors where ex-forces talent earns big — and the Forces-friendly employers actively hiring right now.
1. Defence and Aerospace
Average Salary: £40,000 – £90,000+
Your military background gives you an instant advantage: Veterans are already familiar with defence protocols, military-grade technology, and government operations and your experience coordinating missions and handling classified information makes them ideal candidates in this industry.
In-demand roles
- Defence Contractor
- Aerospace Programme Manager
- Systems Analyst
- Military Liaison Officer
Transferable skills
- Strategic planning
- Secure communications
- Leadership under pressure
- Compliance expertise
Forces-Friendly employers
Babcock International | Airbus | MBDA | BAE Systems | Leonardo
Explore: Live defence and aerospace jobs for veterans
2. Cybersecurity
As cyber threats escalate, companies are increasingly seeking professionals who can anticipate the actions of potential attackers and respond with precision, skills that many veterans honed during their military service. And there are of course, veterans who have direct cyber defence or intelligence experience.
In-demand roles
- Information Security Analyst
- Cybersecurity Consultant
- Threat Intelligence Specialist
- SOC Analyst
Transferable skills
- Secure data handling and encryption
- Threat detection and response
- Experience with security clearance and protocols
- Risk mitigation and critical thinking
Forces-friendly employers
BAE Systems | Northrop Grumman | CGI UK | Capgemini | Leidos UK
Do veterans really earn more in cybersecurity?
Yes — cybersecurity is one of the few industries where salaries start around £45k and quickly climb past six figures. Veterans’ risk-assessment mindset, security clearance awareness and calm decision-making make them ideal defenders in the digital world.
Read: The Ultimate Guide to Getting into Cyber Security for Ex-Military Jobseekers
3. Engineering
Military training frequently includes hands-on experience with technical systems, mechanics, and electrical equipment. This foundation is perfect for engineering roles that demand precision and problem-solving.
Which engineering roles hire the most veterans in the UK?
Mechanical, electrical and systems engineering are particularly strong. Many veterans already have hands-on technical experience that employers look for. Salaries range from £38 k to £85 k +, depending on experience.
In-demand roles
- Mechanical/Electrical Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Field Service Engineer
- Maintenance Engineering Manager
Transferable skills
- Troubleshooting complex systems
- Systems integration and testing
- Safety and technical compliance
- Reading technical manuals and blueprints
Forces-friendly employers
Expleo | Rolls-Royce | AECOM | Babcock | BAE Systems
4. Project Management
Every mission is a project, from planning to execution. Veterans bring unmatched leadership and the ability to manage resources, timelines, and team dynamics, even in high-pressure situations.
What roles are in demand?
- Project Manager
- Programme Director
- Logistics Coordinator
- Infrastructure Project Lead
Transferable skills
- Leading cross-functional teams
- Budgeting and resource allocation
- Mission planning and execution
- Effective communication and adaptability
Forces-friendly employers
AtkinsRéalis | Network Rail | Capita | Babcock | Leonardo
5. Operations & Logistics
Operations management requires a keen understanding of logistics, workflow optimisation, and team oversight, areas in which many veterans are well-versed. Their experience ensures streamlined, efficient business operations.
What roles are in demand?
- Operations Manager
- Supply Chain Director
- Manufacturing Supervisor
- Logistics Analyst
Transferable skills
- Process improvement and logistics coordination
- Personnel management and training
- Risk and contingency planning
- Operational readiness and efficiency
Forces-friendly employers
BT | Serco UK | Kuehne + Nagel | Amazon | DHL
Retraining & Support – Funding Your Next Step
Are there retraining grants for veterans?
Yes. Schemes such as Enhanced Learning Credits (ELC) provide funding for qualifications and resettlement training.
Learn more in Training, Education & Apprenticeships
Your Next Career Starts Here
Veterans bring more than experience — they bring mindset. Leadership, accountability and adaptability are currency in today’s workforce.
If you’re ready to leave the military or change career paths, these five industries offer high pay, growth and purpose.
Your next mission could be your most rewarding yet.
Explore live opportunities for veterans on Troopr
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