How to Use SkillBridge to Land a Civilian Job Before You Separate

SkillBridge allows service members to intern at a civilian employer for up to 180 days before separation, on full active-duty pay and benefits, with 70%+ conversion to full-time offers.

Eligibility

• Within 180 days of separation or retirement
• 180+ days of active duty already completed
• Command / O-6 approval
• No terminal leave overlap

Step 1 — Pick a program

Browse SkillBridge partners. Amazon, Microsoft, USAA, Booz Allen, and Google MSSA all run high-conversion programs.

Step 2 — Get command approval early

Start the conversation with your S-1 and O-6 at 12 months out. Bring: program description, start date, MOU, and a plan for your unit's transition.

Step 3 — Apply like a full-time role

Most SkillBridge programs use the same recruiting process as regular hiring. Bring a civilian-formatted resume — generate one at VetResumeAI.

Step 4 — Interview to convert, not just complete

Treat every day of SkillBridge as a working interview. Ask for a full-time offer letter 30 days before your ETS.

Common mistakes

• Waiting past 90 days out to apply — most programs are full.
• Not aligning the MOU with your unit's ops tempo.
• Treating it like leave instead of an interview.