Getting out at 13 years? Cost/Benefit?

I'll be the jackass and say it, good luck getting $95k starting in the GS system. That is GS-14 Step 1 pay. Your CISSP, 13 years of experience as a Sys Admin and MBA are not enough for it. That is what most high level managers in the agencies are making. Put it in perspective, GS-15's are typically the equivalent of an O-6. I've never heard of someone getting GS-14 right out of the gate. You may get something that starts at GS-11 (which I've seen most Captains with 10 years in get) that will go to a GS-14.

Now contractor....you could probably write your own ticket on. I've seen many Mil get out and hit six-figures based on your qualifications alone. The reason you won't get it in the GS is your education cannot supplement that high up (go read GS-12 education requirements, I believe it is a PhD you need to obtain the GS-12 that way). You need to hit every single thing on the job posting on usajobs.gov with immense detail. Narrative, not bullet statements!

Far as getting out and feeling as if you missing something. I can tell you this from my own experience, I haven't looked back. I went Reserves and will be ending that enlistment soon as well. It was a great stepping stone when I got off AD and was trying to adjust to civilian living again. I love not having to shave every single day. To wear polos and dress shirts along with casual days is awesome. I can adjust my schedule as needed to accommodate my actual life. My bosses are awesome.

What sucks about it? Well now I actually pay for my medical, my gym membership and my mortgage is taken out of my actual check instead of knowing I have BAH to pay for it. However, going to school and using my GI Bill on another degree has helped with that aspect anyways. Paying for clothes for both fun and work now instead of getting a clothing allowance to pay for it was a bit of a downer. However, I also make more than enough money now that I don't really care about.

/r/AirForce Thread