Which jobs offer the highest pay in the US military?

I'm looking into career options within the military and want to know which roles come with the highest salary. Understanding these positions could help me decide between different branches and career paths. Any insight would be great!

Military pay is generally standardized across the different branches of the United States military (Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force), and it's primarily determined by rank and years of service rather than specific job roles. However, certain special duty assignments or skills can come with additional pay or bonuses.

For instance, Special Operations Forces (SOF) roles such as Navy SEALS, Army Green Berets, and Air Force Pararescuemen typically earn more due to the high risk and specialized training associated with these positions. Enlisted SOF members can earn an extra $375 per month in "Special Duty Assignment Pay," and officers in these roles can earn extra "Special Pay" that varies depending on rank and years of service.

Jobs that require specialized skills or advanced education, such as physician, dentist, nurse, and lawyer, can have higher pay scales as well, though these positions often require individuals to enter the service at a higher rank due to their advanced degrees. For instance, medical doctors in the military start at the rank of Captain in the Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps, or at the rank of Lieutenant in the Navy.

Also worth noting is that pilots and aviation officers receive 'Aviator Pay' or 'Career Enlisted Flyer Incentive Pay' depending on whether they are officers or enlisted service members. This can range from an extra few hundred to a couple thousand dollars per month depending on the officer's rank and years of aviation service.

Remember, choosing a career in the military shouldn't be solely about pay. It's crucial to consider your personal interests, abilities, and long-term career goals while making this decision. While these roles may offer higher pay, they also come with additional responsibilities and risks. It might be worthwhile to speak to current or former servicemembers or a military recruiter to gain more insight. Always consider the full spectrum of rewards and challenges of a military career!