Also called: Special Warfare Operator
An elite special operations warrior trained to fight on sea, air, and land.
SEALs train constantly in diving, parachuting, and combat, then deploy on secret missions. Selection (BUD/S) is famously brutal; most candidates do not finish.
Figures approximate total military compensation (base pay plus tax-free housing and food allowances) from new to senior ranks; benefits include free healthcare, college money (GI Bill), and pensions after 20 years.
High school diploma, about 2 years after high school. Navy enlistment or commission plus SEAL selection and about a year of training.
Ways in: Military. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Growing about average. Military hiring follows recruiting goals rather than BLS projections.
Low risk for 10 years. Drones and AI aid missions, but elite combat diving, parachuting and raids stay human.
Classes: Physical education and swimming, A foreign language, Leadership role on a team.
Official data: O*NET occupation 55-3018.
Career Universe is an early version. Pay, training and AI-risk figures are estimates to start your own research, not verified facts. The research was written with AI research assistants, checked by validation scripts and spot-checked by hand. Check anything important with schools, employers and official sources. How the numbers work.