For veterans transitioning out of the military, Northeast Florida offers strong career opportunities across multiple industries. With major military installations, a thriving port economy and growing private-sector employers, the Jacksonville region is one of the most veteran-friendly job markets in the state.
The skills and experience gained in military service like discipline, leadership, problem-solving and teamwork translate powerfully into civilian careers. Below are some of the top career paths where veterans are finding success in Jacksonville:
1. Advanced Manufacturing & Skilled Trades
Jacksonville has a growing Advanced Manufacturing sector, anchored by companies such as Northrop Grumman, Boeing, SAFT and BAE Systems. Veterans with backgrounds in maintenance, aviation, mechanics and engineering are especially well-suited for these hands-on, technically demanding roles.
Many military occupational specialties (MOS) involve technical troubleshooting, equipment repair or system operations. Employers value the reliability and precision that comes from this type of service experience, and many trade schools and certification programs also accept GI Bill benefits.
2. Transportation, Logistics & Supply Chain Management
With one of the only centrally located East Coast regions that offers all five subsectors of logistics: rail, air, maritime/port, road and shipping/warehousing, the Jacksonville region is the ideal location for careers in the Transportation and Logistics Industry.
Companies like the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), CSX, Amazon and JAXPORT regularly hire veterans for roles in operations, warehouse supervision, supply-chain coordination and more.
Military logistics and supply experience directly translate into civilian transportation and inventory management. Veterans are used to working under pressure, tracking materials and coordinating with large teams. Jacksonville’s expanding port operations mean continued career growth in this field.
3. Law Enforcement, Public Safety & Government Service
Many veterans are drawn to roles that mirror the teamwork, discipline and mission-focused nature of military life. In Northeast Florida, there’s consistent demand for law enforcement officers, firefighters, corrections officers, federal service agents and more.
The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) actively recruits veterans and provides paid academy training. The Florida Department of Veterans’ Affairs offers roles as Veterans’ Service Officers and federal agencies such as Customs and Border Protection and Department of Homeland Security have offices and postings in Jacksonville.
Chain-of-command structure and teamwork align closely with military culture. Many agencies offer veterans’ preference points in the hiring process. Careers in the Public Service Industry can provide stability, retirement benefits and community connection.
4. Technology Services
As Jacksonville continues to grow as a technology hub, demand for IT and cybersecurity professionals is on the rise. Veterans with experience in communications, signals or intelligence fields are particularly well-positioned for roles in the Technology Services Industry.
Companies like FIS Global and ICE Mortgage Technology are headquartered in Jacksonville and offer a variety of roles in IT, artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Local colleges such as Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ) and University of North Florida (UNF) provide affordable certificate programs and degrees in this sector.
Many veterans already have strong technical and security backgrounds. Employers value the security clearances and attention to detail veterans bring. IT offers remote and hybrid work options that suit a variety of family needs.
5. Corporate Operations
Jacksonville’s Corporate Operations Industry includes everything from banking to healthcare to insurance, creating strong demand for experienced leaders and coordinators. With 150+ companies headquartered in Northeast Florida, the region continues to be one of the nation’s best locations for business and career advancements.
Veterans who lead teams or manage missions can transition seamlessly into project management, operations or administrative roles. Leadership, organization and decision-making are central to both military and business success. Many veterans are natural problem solvers who can adapt to fast-changing environments.
6. Life Sciences & Human Services
Healthcare remains one of Northeast Florida’s largest and fastest-growing industries. Veterans with backgrounds in combat medicine, nursing, administration or emergency services can build rewarding civilian careers in the Life Sciences Industry.
Mayo Clinic, UF Health Jacksonville and Baptist Health frequently hire veterans for clinical and administrative positions. The Department of Veterans Affairs Jacksonville Outpatient Clinic also offers roles for both veterans and spouses.
Resources
Northeast Florida also offers a strong support system to help veterans connect with employers and transition smoothly into civilian careers:
- CareerSource Northeast Florida Veterans Program provides résumé help, career counseling and veteran job fairs.
- Wounded Warrior Project (headquartered in Jacksonville) offers career placement and mental health support for veterans and their families.
- Jacksonville Vet Center provides confidential counseling and referral services to help with both job readiness and emotional well-being.
- Five STAR Veterans Center offers transitional housing and workforce development for veterans reintegrating into the community.
The transition from military to civilian life can feel daunting—but in Jacksonville and Northeast Florida, veterans are surrounded by opportunity. Whether you’re seeking a hands-on technical role, a leadership position or a new mission in public service, your skills have real value here. With a strong job market, veteran-friendly employers and a supportive community, Jacksonville is more than a place to live—it’s a place to thrive after service. Visit Earn Up’s Veterans Resources page for more information on education and careers available to veterans!
