81150 Career Guide
81150: Security Forces Specialist
Career transition guide for Air Force Security Forces Specialist (81150)
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Top civilian roles for 81150 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.
Police Officer
Security Guard/Officer
Federal Protective Service Officer
Skills to develop:
Security Systems Installer
Skills to develop:
Firearms Instructor
Skills to develop:
Salary estimates from VWC career data
Hidden Strengths
Cognitive skills your 81150 training built — and where they transfer.
Situational Awareness
SF personnel constantly scan their environment for threats, whether patrolling a base, controlling entry points, or responding to emergencies. They must be aware of their surroundings, potential dangers, and the location of personnel and resources.
This translates to an ability to quickly assess complex situations, identify potential risks, and maintain a high level of vigilance in dynamic environments.
Procedural Compliance
SF members adhere to strict protocols and procedures for security, weapon handling, investigations, and emergency response. They must follow established rules and regulations to ensure safety and effectiveness.
This demonstrates a commitment to following established guidelines, maintaining order, and ensuring accuracy in tasks. You understand the importance of policies and are comfortable enforcing them.
Adversarial Thinking
SF personnel are trained to anticipate and counter potential threats. They must think like an adversary to identify vulnerabilities and develop effective security measures. This includes understanding terrorist tactics and criminal behavior.
This means you can proactively identify potential problems, assess risks, and develop strategies to mitigate them. You're good at thinking ahead and anticipating challenges.
Rapid Prioritization
When responding to incidents or emergencies, SF personnel must quickly assess the situation, prioritize tasks, and allocate resources effectively. This includes determining the level of threat, coordinating response efforts, and providing first aid.
This highlights your ability to make quick decisions under pressure, prioritize tasks effectively, and manage resources efficiently in fast-paced environments.
Team Synchronization
SF operations often involve working in small teams to achieve a common goal. They must coordinate their actions, communicate effectively, and support each other to ensure mission success. This includes conducting patrols, responding to incidents, and securing areas.
You excel at collaborating with others, coordinating efforts, and communicating effectively to achieve shared objectives. You understand the importance of teamwork and can contribute to a cohesive and productive work environment.
Non-Obvious Career Matches
Compliance Officer
SOC 13-1041You've been trained to follow strict procedures and enforce regulations in high-stakes environments. Your experience in security forces translates directly to ensuring businesses adhere to legal and ethical standards.
Emergency Management Specialist
SOC 29-9099You're skilled in responding to emergencies, coordinating resources, and protecting personnel and assets. You can leverage this experience to help communities prepare for and recover from disasters.
Fraud Investigator
SOC 13-2099You've developed keen observation skills and the ability to identify suspicious behavior. You can use your adversarial thinking and attention to detail to uncover fraudulent activities.
Range Safety Officer
SOC 33-3051You're an expert in weapons handling and safety protocols. You can use your experience to oversee shooting ranges, ensure compliance with safety regulations, and provide instruction to others.
Training & Education Equivalencies
Security Forces Academy, Lackland AFB
Topics Covered
- •Basic Security Skills
- •Weapons Handling and Qualification (M4 Carbine, M9 Pistol, M203 Grenade Launcher, M240 Machine Gun, M249 SAW)
- •Law Enforcement and Security Tactics
- •Integrated Defense
- •Installation Security
- •Combat Tactics and Patrolling
- •First Aid/Self-Aid Buddy Care
- •Armory Operations and Maintenance
Certification Pathways
Partial Coverage
While the SF role covers security principles, integrated defense, and law enforcement procedures, the CPP requires broader knowledge of security management, risk assessment, legal aspects, and business principles not explicitly covered in the military role.
SF personnel receive self-aid buddy care training, but EMT certification requires a comprehensive understanding of anatomy, physiology, advanced life support techniques, and clinical experience, along with practical application of those skills.
Recommended Next Certifications
Technical Systems Translation
Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.
| Military System | Civilian Equivalent |
|---|---|
| Integrated Entry Control System (IECS) | Automated gate control and visitor management systems |
| Ground-Based Radar (GBR) | Perimeter surveillance radar systems |
| AN/PRC-117G Multiband Manpack Radio | Motorola APX series P25 radios |
| M240B Machine Gun | FN Herstal FN MAG |
| M203 Grenade Launcher | 40mm grenade launchers (less regulated models/uses) |
| Night Vision Devices (AN/PVS-14) | FLIR or similar commercial night vision monoculars |
| Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) equipment (basic) | Hazardous material handling equipment and bomb disposal suits |
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