Space Force jobs are the technical careers that keep America's satellites, networks, and radars running. The U.S. Space Force is the 6th U.S. military branch, created on December 20, 2019. Its members are called Guardians. Most Space Force jobs are ground-based, so Guardians operate space systems from control stations on Earth.
The Space Force is small but powerful. It has about 10,200 active Guardians. That makes it the smallest U.S. military branch by far. Every job is highly technical, and most involve satellites, cyber networks, or intelligence.
What kinds of Space Force jobs are there?
Space Force jobs fall into two main groups: enlisted career fields and officer career fields. Enlisted Guardians do the hands-on technical work. Officers lead teams and manage large systems and budgets.
Both groups work in areas like space operations, cyber, intelligence, and engineering. The Space Force does not have many combat-arms jobs like the Army. Instead, it focuses on space and digital missions.
You can explore official roles on the Space Force careers site. Below, we break down the main career fields for both paths.
Enlisted Space Force jobs
Enlisted Space Force jobs are the technical core of the branch. These Guardians run the equipment day to day. You do not need a college degree to enlist. You need a high school diploma and a qualifying ASVAB score.
The main enlisted career fields are:
- Space Systems Operations — operate satellites, GPS, and missile-warning systems from ground stations.
- Cyberspace Operations — defend military networks from attacks and keep them online.
- Intelligence — work in all-source, geospatial, and signals intelligence to support missions.
- Space Electronic Maintenance — install and repair the electronic systems that space missions rely on.
- Fusion Analysis — combine data from many sources into a clear picture for commanders.
There are also mission support and base support roles. These keep bases, people, and operations running smoothly.
Officer Space Force jobs
Officer Space Force jobs lead teams and manage major systems. Officers generally need a bachelor's degree, often in a STEM field. They commission through the Air Force Academy, ROTC, or Officer Training School.
The main officer career fields are:
- Space Operations (13S) — direct satellite, missile-warning, and space-control missions.
- Cyberspace Operations (17X and 17S) — lead cyber defense and network operations.
- Intelligence (14N) — manage intelligence teams and analysis.
- Engineering and Acquisitions — design, develop, and buy new space systems.
Officers set strategy and make big decisions. They also mentor enlisted Guardians and plan future missions.
Space Force career fields at a glance
The table below compares the main Space Force career fields. It shows what Guardians do, whether the field is enlisted or officer, and a typical requirement.
| Career field | What Guardians do | Enlisted or officer | Typical requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space Systems Operations | Operate satellites, GPS, and missile-warning systems | Enlisted (13S for officers) | High General/Electronic ASVAB scores; security clearance |
| Cyberspace Operations | Defend and run military networks | Both (17X/17S officers) | Strong technical scores; security clearance |
| Intelligence | All-source, geospatial, and signals intelligence | Both (14N officers) | High General score; security clearance |
| Space Electronic Maintenance | Install and repair space-related electronic systems | Enlisted | High Electronic score |
| Fusion Analysis | Turn many data sources into one clear picture | Enlisted | High General score; security clearance |
| Engineering and Acquisitions | Develop and buy new space systems | Officer | Bachelor's degree, often in STEM |
How Space Force jobs are assigned
Your Space Force job is assigned from several factors, not just your choice. The main factors are your ASVAB line scores, your medical qualification, your security-clearance eligibility, and the needs of the force.
The ASVAB produces four composite scores: Mechanical, Administrative, General, and Electronic. Technical space and cyber jobs require high General (G) and Electronic (E) scores. You can learn more on our guide to the Space Force ASVAB score.
A security clearance matters too. Most Space Force jobs handle sensitive information. You must be eligible for a clearance to serve in these roles.
How to qualify for Space Force jobs
To qualify for Space Force jobs, you must meet basic entry rules. You must be a U.S. citizen, age 17 to 42, with a high school diploma and a qualifying ASVAB score.
Enlisted Guardians start at Basic Military Training. This is a 7.5-week course at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. After BMT, you attend technical training for your specific career field. Our guide to Space Force basic training explains what to expect.
Officers take a different path. They commission through the Air Force Academy, ROTC, or Officer Training School. Then they attend training for their career field. For the full process, see how to join the Space Force.
How much do Space Force jobs pay?
Space Force jobs pay using the standard DoD pay tables. Guardians earn base pay by grade, the same as members of every other branch. Your rank and years of service set your base pay.
New enlisted Guardians start at the junior grades and earn raises as they promote. Officers start at a higher pay grade. You can see current numbers on the Space Force pay chart.
Pay also includes allowances for housing and food, plus special pays for some jobs. To understand grades and titles, review the Space Force ranks.
Are Space Force jobs right for you?
Space Force jobs fit people who love technology, problem-solving, and precise work. If you enjoy computers, satellites, or data, you may find a strong match. Guardians do not fly to space, but their work protects space every day. Most are stationed at Space Force bases in Florida, California, and Colorado.
The branch is small, so competition can be tough. High ASVAB scores and clearance eligibility improve your odds. Strong STEM skills help most, especially for officer roles.
Start your Space Force career today
Space Force jobs offer some of the most advanced careers in the U.S. military. From running satellites to defending networks, Guardians do vital, high-tech work. The path starts with meeting the entry rules and scoring well on the ASVAB.
Ready to take the next step? Learn how to join the Space Force, then check the ASVAB score you need. With the right preparation, you can earn a place among America's Guardians.