Interested in military jobs for those 40 and older

I'm curious about opportunities in the military for people who are 40 and older. Does the military have specific roles or programs for older recruits, or is it generally aimed at younger people?

Each branch of the U.S. military has its age limits for enlistment, which generally target younger age groups. However, the age limit may vary by specific job and circumstance, and lots of branches offer reserve roles that have older age limits.

The Army, for instance, has a maximum enlistment age of 35, but this can be waived for those with certain sought-after skills or previous military experience. The Navy is age 41, the Marine Corps is 28, and the Coast Guard is also 41. Like the Army, this can vary based on demand and expertise.

The Air Force and the newly-established Space Force have slightly older enlistment ages, with the Air Force accepting recruits up to the age of 42 and the Space Force mirroring these requirements.

In terms of specific roles, while there are no specific "older recruit" programs per se, those with significant life and professional experience are often considered for roles that require experience, judgment, and managerial ability. Such positions could include roles in operational support, logistics, military intelligence, or healthcare. There are also pathways available for professionals like lawyers or chaplains who want to provide their services in a military context.

Don't forget though, that military service - even in non-combat roles - can have physical demands and even age waivers typically require recruits to meet fitness and health standards. So it's crucial to consider these factors when thinking about military service at a later age.