Building a Flexible Career as a Military Spouse or Marine
Military life offers many rewards but also unique challenges—frequent relocations, deployments, and changing family needs can make traditional careers hard to maintain. Creating a mobile and flexible career plan is a smart investment in yourself that brings stability and fulfillment no matter where the Marine Corps takes you.
Focus on Portable and In-Demand Careers
Consider careers known for portability, such as teaching, nursing, social work, counseling, and information technology (IT).
Embrace Flexibility in How You Work
Flexibility isn’t just about location—it's also about your work style. Explore freelance, contract, or remote roles like graphic design, virtual assistance, and consulting that can fit your schedule and location needs.
Entrepreneurship for Greater Freedom
Many military spouses find entrepreneurship provides even more freedom. Whether it’s starting an online store, a micro bakery, digital marketing services, or content creation, entrepreneurship allows you to turn your passion into portable income that travels with you from duty station to duty station.
Invest in Professional Development
Keeps your skills current by using resources like the Family Member Employment Assistance Program (FMEAP) workshops, one-on-one career coaching, and networking events. Online courses and certifications also help you stay competitive and committed to lifelong learning. Platforms such as the Military Spouse Employment Partnership (MSEP) Job Portal, FlexJobs, and LinkedIn offer flexible and remote job opportunities tailored for military spouses.
Adapt Your Career Over Time
A successful career doesn’t have to look the same at every stage. By focusing on transferable skills, exploring entrepreneurship, and staying engaged in learning and networking, your career can evolve alongside your family’s journey.
Support for Marines’ Career Growth
Career growth doesn’t stop when you’re in uniform. The Transition Readiness Program (TRP) helps Marines prepare for their next steps—whether that’s reenlistment, changing military occupational specialty (MOS), or transitioning to civilian life—with tools and guidance to move forward confidently.
Key TRP Resources:
- SkillBridge – Gain hands-on experience through internships and industry training while still on active duty.
- Career Counseling – Get personalized support to explore career goals and build a clear action plan.
Marines are encouraged to connect with their career planner to discuss reenlistment, MOS changes, and long-term goals. When combined with TRP services, these conversations create a strategic approach to career development inside and outside the Marine Corps.
Your goals matter. Invest in yourself and build a thriving career—wherever the Marine Corps takes you.