Is civilian military truck driving a viable path?

I'm looking into truck driving as a career and saw that there are civilian military truck driving jobs. How does working in this field compare to standard trucking positions, and are there different requirements or benefits?

Civilian truck driving for the military can indeed be a viable career path and it can provide you with unique opportunities compared to standard commercial trucking positions.

When you work as a civilian military truck driver, you're often transporting personnel and goods for the Army, Navy, Air Force, or Marines between military bases or to field operations. These routes could be interstate or even international, depending on your deployment.

Regarding requirements, similar to commercial truck driving jobs, you will need a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) but with a military truck driving job, you may be asked to secure additional endorsements based on the type of material you would be transporting—for instance, hazardous materials or tank vehicles. There may also be stricter security and background checks given the nature of your work.

What makes this path distinct is its potential benefits. As a civilian military employee, you're a federal employee. This status often comes with a comprehensive benefits package (including health insurance and retirement plans), job stability, and possibilities of government housing. Plus, there can be unique opportunities for advancement in the military structure if you prove your dedication and skill.

As with any job, it's very important to research the specific roles you're interested in to make sure they align with your personal and career goals. Reach out to those who are currently in the roles you're eyeing and ask about the pros and cons. This will give you a better perspective on the day-to-day nature of the job. More than the comparison with commercial trucking, understanding if this career matches your lifestyle expectations can help you make a better-informed decision.