Client Support Technician roles are often misunderstood. Some assume it's basic help desk work, but in a secure military environment like Tyndall Air Force Base, the reality is far more technical, mission-driven, and dynamic.

If you're pursuing a career in cleared IT support—whether you're transitioning from the military, pivoting from another tech role, or just starting your career path—this blog breaks down what it really takes to succeed in a position like this. From certifications and experience to what your day-to-day might look like, we’re answering the top questions most people have when considering this type of opportunity.

And if you're a veteran bringing experience from a communications squadron or cyber support unit? You may already be more qualified than you realize.

What Certifications Do I Need to Apply for a Job Like This?

To support DoD systems, you’ll need to be 8570 compliant—specifically, IAT Level II certified. That means holding at least one of the following:

• CompTIA Security+ CE

• CCNA Security

• CySA+

• GSEC

• CND

If you're coming out of the military and already hold one of these, great—you’re ready. If not, look into using Post-9/11 GI Bill, VET TEC, or SkillBridge to get certified before or just after your ETS. Many veterans don’t realize these benefits can be used for certs like Security+—and that one credential alone will qualify you for multiple cleared roles.

Do I Need a Degree, or Will My Experience Count?

An associate’s degree in a related field is usually listed as a requirement—but here's the key: experience can substitute. If you’ve done hands-on work maintaining systems, deploying hardware, or troubleshooting secure environments, that practical experience counts.

For this role at Tyndall, we’re looking for 3–5 years of IT support experience. That includes work you did as a comms troop, cyber tech, or sysadmin in uniform.

Is a Clearance Required?

Yes—this job requires an active Secret clearance. But if your clearance is expired or recently inactive, you might still be eligible for reinstatement depending on how long it’s been.

This is one of the biggest advantages veterans have over civilian candidates: you’ve already cleared the background process, and in a cleared environment, clearance = currency.

What Aoes a Client Support Technician Actually Do Day-to-Day?

You’re not just sitting at a help desk resetting passwords. In this role, you’re:

• Imaging and deploying secure Windows 10/11 systems

• Troubleshooting software and hardware issues in a fast-paced, secure environment

• Supporting end users across the base to keep mission operations online

• Managing patching and configuration to stay compliant with cybersecurity policies

You’ll be expected to know your way around Windows Deployment Services (WDS), standard Air Force desktop configurations, and DoD-level software patching. If you’ve ever worked in a NOSC, CST, or communications squadron, this will feel very familiar.

What Makes This Particular Job Different from Other IT Support Jobs?

This role at Tyndall AFB is part of something much bigger: the Air Force’s effort to rebuild after Hurricane Michael and design the “Installation of the Future.”

It’s a short-term, high-priority position with just a few months left on the contract, which means we’re looking for someone who can jump in and contribute immediately. But there’s also a retention bonus for those who stay through the end—and the possibility of continuing with our team or one of our partners once the contract ends.

This isn’t just a one-off job—it’s an entry point into long-term cleared IT work.

I'm Transitioning Out of the Military—How Can I Make Myself More Competitive for This Kind of Role?

Here’s the checklist we recommend for separating service members:

1. Get your certs before you ETS. Use SkillBridge or VET TEC to knock out Security+, at minimum.

2. Brush up on your Windows imaging, patching, and deployment skills.

3. Learn how to translate your military experience into civilian terms. (Pro tip: Say “supported 2,000+ users across classified/unclassified networks,” not “comm squadron help desk.”)

4. Create a civilian-style resume. Cut the acronyms. Focus on impact, numbers, and the technologies you’ve used.

5. If you’re cleared, say it. Loudly. At the top of your resume. Employers filter by clearance first.

Is This Role a Good Fit if I Want to Grow into Cybersecurity?

Absolutely. This is a great stepping stone. Why?

• You’ll be working in a secure environment, enforcing cyber hygiene.

• You’ll be troubleshooting end-user issues that often touch software vulnerabilities or patch management.

• You’ll be learning DoD processes and compliance from the inside out.

Most people in this role go on to become system administrators, security analysts, or field service engineers—with a strong understanding of what it takes to work in cleared environments.

What You Really Need to Land This Job

If you're serious about stepping into a civilian IT role that matters, especially after your time in the military, here’s what it boils down to:

• Active Secret Clearance

• Security+ or equivalent IAT Level II cert

• 3–5 years of IT support experience (military counts)

• Familiarity with Windows environments, deployment tools, and secure systems

• A mindset of professionalism, accountability, and mission-focus

If that sounds like you—and you’re ready to bring those skills to the table in support of the rebuild at Tyndall—this role is waiting. Don't wait, apply now!