Which Entry-Level IT Job Offers Greater Pay: Air National Guard or Army National Guard?

When considering entry-level jobs in Information Technology (IT) within the National Guard, the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard both offer a range of roles. However, which service pays better can be a point of contention. This article will delve into the pay scales, roles, and benefits of both the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard for entry-level IT professionals.

Understanding the Pay Scales

Both the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard adhere to the same pay scales, ensuring that service members are compensated according to their rank and time in service. The pay is not contingent on the branch but rather on the individual's position and experience level within the IT field. This means that whether you choose the Air National Guard or the Army National Guard, you will be paid based on the same military E pay scale or the GS (General Schedule) pay scale as used by all government services.

The Military E Pay Scale

The Military E pay scale is specifically designed for enlisted personnel, including IT professionals. This scale is tiered, with pay escalating based on rank and time in service. Below are the basic ranks and their pay approximations at the entry level:

E-1 ( Private or Private First Class ): Typically, the starting pay is around $1,700 to $2,300 per month, with no dependents. E-2 ( Specialist or Corporal ): This rank may see a slight increase, around $2,100 to $2,800 per month. E-3 ( Sergeant ): With more responsibility comes higher pay, around $2,700 to $3,600 per month.

These figures are subject to changes in the Military Pay Act and cost of living adjustments. For more detailed information, refer to the official Military Pay Charts.

The GS Pay Scale

The GS (General Schedule) pay scale is used for civilian employees of the U.S. government, including active and reserve military personnel in certain roles. This scale is more in line with civilian jobs and may offer better pay for entry-level IT professionals. The GS pay scale is divided into multiple levels, with higher levels corresponding to higher pay and more responsibility. Here’s a brief overview of GS levels for entry-level IT positions:

GS-5: Starting pay ranges from $33,418 to $43,395 per year. GS-7: Starting pay ranges from $43,210 to $58,141 per year. GS-9: Starting pay ranges from $50,521 to $66,942 per year.

It’s important to note that these figures are based on federal guidelines and can be adjusted based on local pay factors.

Entry-Level IT Roles in the National Guard

Both the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard offer various entry-level IT roles that can pay well. Some common positions include:

Network Administrator: Responsible for maintaining and operating networks and systems. IT Support Specialist: Provides technical support and troubleshooting for IT systems. Database Administrator: Manages and maintains databases to ensure data integrity and security. Security Analyst: Designs and implements security measures to protect IT systems and data.

While specific roles may vary, both services may offer similar positions, providing the opportunity for professionals to start at a higher rank due to specialized skills and experience in the IT field.

Additional Benefits of National Guard Employment

Beyond the base pay, both the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard provide a range of benefits that can enhance the financial gains of entry-level IT jobs:

Medical and Dental Coverage: Comprehensive medical and dental care for service members and eligible family members. Retirement Savings Plan: The Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) is a tax-deferred retirement savings plan offered to active military and their families. Child Care and Education Assistance: Many bases offer child care services and educational assistance programs to support the families of service members. Employment Opportunities and Tuition Assistance: Both services often have partnerships with local employers and offer tuition assistance programs to support higher education.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard for entry-level IT jobs, the decision should be based on factors beyond just pay. Both services offer comparable pay structures based on the military E pay scale or the GS pay scale. However, additional benefits such as medical and dental coverage, retirement savings plans, and educational assistance can significantly enhance the overall financial package. Whether you choose the Air National Guard or the Army National Guard, the entry-level IT roles available provide a good starting point for a fulfilling career in the National Guard. Consider your specific interests and career goals to determine which branch aligns best with your aspirations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do the Air National Guard and Army National Guard have different pay structures?

A: No, both services use the same pay scale. Service members are paid based on their rank and time in service, adhering to the military E pay scale or the GS pay scale.

Q: Are the roles available in both branches similar?

A: Yes, both the Air National Guard and the Army National Guard offer similar entry-level IT roles, such as Network Administrator, IT Support Specialist, and Security Analyst. The specific details and requirements may vary, but the core roles and responsibilities are comparable.

Q: Can I expect similar benefits from both branches?

A: Yes, both branches offer comparable benefits, including medical and dental coverage, retirement savings plans, and educational assistance. However, the extent and availability of these benefits may vary based on the individual's circumstances and rank.