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9982 Career Guide

Marine Corps

9982: Small Computer Systems Operator/Programmer

Career transition guide for Marine Corps Small Computer Systems Operator/Programmer (9982)

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Civilian Career Pathways

Top civilian roles for 9982 veterans, with average salary and market demand data.

Software Developer

$110K
High matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

Specific language proficiency (e.g., Python, Java, C++)Agile development methodologiesVersion control systems (e.g., Git)

Computer Systems Analyst

$95K
High matchHigh demand

Skills to develop:

Business analysis techniquesProject management methodologiesCloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, Azure)

IT Support Specialist

$65K
Good matchStable demand

Skills to develop:

CompTIA A+ certificationCustomer service skillsTroubleshooting methodologies for diverse hardware/software

Database Administrator

$90K
Moderate matchGrowing demand

Skills to develop:

SQL proficiencyDatabase management systems (e.g., Oracle, MySQL)Data security best practices

DevOps Engineer

$125K
Good matchVery high demand

Skills to develop:

Cloud computing platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP)Containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes)CI/CD pipelines

Salary estimates from VWC career data

Hidden Strengths

Cognitive skills your 9982 training built — and where they transfer.

System Modeling

As a small computer systems operator/programmer, you design and develop microcomputer applications and systems, requiring you to create mental models of how different software components interact and function together within the overall system.

Your experience in system modeling translates to the ability to understand complex systems, predict their behavior, and optimize their performance, a valuable skill in many technical and analytical roles.

Procedural Compliance

The role involves strictly adhering to established procedures for installing software, maintaining libraries, and troubleshooting systems to ensure smooth operations and prevent errors. You likely followed detailed protocols to maintain system integrity and security.

Your demonstrated ability to consistently adhere to procedures and protocols, even under pressure, makes you an ideal candidate for roles requiring meticulous attention to detail and adherence to standards.

Degraded-Mode Operations

Troubleshooting programs and responding to software system/program failures means you’re adept at maintaining functionality even when systems are not operating optimally. You can find workarounds and temporary solutions to keep things running.

Your experience in maintaining systems during failures demonstrates your ability to think critically and creatively under pressure, finding effective solutions even when resources are limited or systems are compromised.

After-Action Analysis

Responding to software system/program failure, maintaining software system libraries. You're essentially doing root cause analysis when you troubleshoot programs, and maintaining libraries means you need to know how and why systems were set up the way they were.

Your experience in system failure analysis means you're prepared to perform root cause analysis on complex problems, and propose solutions to mitigate future risks.

Non-Obvious Career Matches

Technical Writer

SOC 27-3042

You've been writing programs and procedures, and assisting users with software. This translates perfectly to creating documentation, user manuals, and technical guides. Your understanding of software systems will help you explain complex topics clearly and concisely.

IT Trainer

SOC 25-4022

You've been assisting in instructing small systems software functions. That means you have the ability to train people on how to use software. With your technical skills, you can create and deliver training programs to help others learn new technologies.

Data Quality Analyst

SOC 15-2051

You've been maintaining software system libraries, ensuring data integrity and accuracy. You can leverage this attention to detail to identify and correct data errors, ensuring the reliability of information used for decision-making.

Training & Education Equivalencies

Small Computer Systems Specialist Course, Marine Corps Communication-Electronics School, Twentynine Palms, CA

540 training hours12 weeksUp to 9 semester hours recommended in Computer Science or Information Technology

Topics Covered

  • Fundamentals of Computer Hardware and Software
  • Operating Systems (Windows Server, Linux)
  • Scripting and Automation (PowerShell, Bash)
  • Networking Fundamentals
  • Database Management (SQL)
  • Cybersecurity Fundamentals
  • Troubleshooting and System Maintenance

Certification Pathways

Partial Coverage

CompTIA A+70% covered

Focus on hardware troubleshooting, mobile device repair, networking basics, and cloud computing concepts. Review the latest operating system versions and security best practices covered in the A+ exam.

CompTIA Network+40% covered

Study network topologies, protocols, security, and troubleshooting. Focus on network implementation, wireless technologies, and standards.

Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals30% covered

Learn about cloud computing concepts, Azure services, security, privacy, compliance, and trust. Understand Azure pricing and support models.

Recommended Next Certifications

CompTIA Security+Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)AWS Certified Solutions Architect – AssociateProject Management Professional (PMP)

Technical Systems Translation

Military systems you've used and their civilian equivalents for your resume.

Military SystemCivilian Equivalent
Common Hardware Systems (CHS)Ruggedized laptops and tablets (e.g., Panasonic Toughbook, Dell Latitude Rugged)
Marine Corps Enterprise Network (MCEN)Corporate network infrastructure (e.g., Cisco, Juniper)
Microsoft Windows ServerWindows Server (industry standard)
SQL ServerSQL Server (industry standard)
VMware vSphereVMware vSphere (industry standard)
SharePointSharePoint (industry standard)

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