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1D7X1: Cyber Defense Operations to $100K+
Where an Air Force Cyber Defense Operations fits in the civilian job market, what it pays, and how to get there.
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What the job is, in plain English
Builds, defends and maintains Air Force networks, servers and communications systems. (1D7 replaced most of the old 3D1 cyber support specialties, such as 3D1X2 Cyber Transport.)
Skills that transfer
- Network and systems administration
- Cyber defense and compliance
- Client and server support
- Database and software support
- Project coordination
Matching civilian roles and pay
5 of 5 matched roles reach $100K+ for top earners nationally; the highest median here is Computer and Information Systems Managers at $175,140. Matches come from O*NET's crosswalk for 1D7X1 (Cyber Defense Operations).
| Civilian role | Median pay | 90th percentile | $100K+ potential |
|---|---|---|---|
| Information Security Analysts | $129,180 | $199,850 | Median already clears $100K |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $99,130 | $155,050 | Yes: top 10% earn $155,050+ |
| Computer Network Architects | $134,050 | $202,680 | Median already clears $100K |
| Software Developers | $135,980 | $214,670 | Median already clears $100K |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $175,140 | $297,510 | Median already clears $100K |
Pay: BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 national estimates, national annual wages (BLS OEWS). Your pay will vary with location, experience, clearance, education and employer. Some O*NET roles share a broader BLS pay group, which is noted under the role name.
Certifications worth a look
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Network+
- Cisco CCNA
- AWS / Azure cloud certifications
Commonly pursued by people in this field; not an official list. Check what your branch will fund, and see the full list for your code, on DoD COOL (Air Force COOL: 1D7X1).
The clearance angle
Most 1D7 members hold Secret or Top Secret. A clearance plus DoD 8140 baseline certs (like Security+) opens many contractor roles. See what a security clearance is worth in 2026.
Next steps
Related job codes
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