Intro
Discover the comprehensive Sergeant First Class salary and benefits overview. Learn about the average annual salary, allowances, and bonuses for Sergeant First Class ranks in the US military. Understand the total compensation package, including education benefits, healthcare, and retirement plans, to make informed decisions about your military career.
The United States Army offers a wide range of career opportunities for individuals who are passionate about serving their country. One of the most prestigious and respected positions in the Army is that of Sergeant First Class (SFC). As a senior non-commissioned officer, a Sergeant First Class is responsible for leading and mentoring junior soldiers, as well as performing a variety of critical tasks that support the success of the Army. In this article, we will provide an overview of the Sergeant First Class salary and benefits, as well as the requirements and responsibilities associated with this esteemed position.
What is a Sergeant First Class?
A Sergeant First Class is a senior non-commissioned officer in the United States Army, ranking above Staff Sergeant and below Master Sergeant. As a Sergeant First Class, individuals are responsible for leading and mentoring junior soldiers, as well as performing a variety of critical tasks that support the success of the Army. Sergeant First Class personnel serve as key advisors to commanders and are responsible for planning and executing missions.
Requirements for Becoming a Sergeant First Class
To become a Sergeant First Class, individuals must meet certain requirements, including:
- Being a U.S. citizen
- Being at least 18 years old
- Having a high school diploma or equivalent
- Having a minimum of six years of service in the Army
- Having a rank of Staff Sergeant or higher
- Having a minimum score of 240 on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT)
- Having a minimum score of 80 on the Army Promotion Point Worksheet
- Completing the Advanced Noncommissioned Officer Course (ANCOC)
Sergeant First Class Salary
The salary for a Sergeant First Class varies based on factors such as time in service, rank, and Military Occupational Specialty (MOS). According to the Army's pay scale, the basic pay for a Sergeant First Class with six years of service is approximately $4,400 per month. However, with additional forms of compensation, such as Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) and Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS), the total compensation package can be significantly higher.
Additional Forms of Compensation
In addition to basic pay, Sergeant First Class personnel may be eligible for a variety of additional forms of compensation, including:
- Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH)
- Basic Allowance for Subsistence (BAS)
- Special Duty Pay
- Hazardous Duty Pay
- Subsistence Allowance
- Moving Allowance
Sergeant First Class Benefits
In addition to a competitive salary, Sergeant First Class personnel are eligible for a variety of benefits, including:
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
- 30 days of paid vacation per year
- Opportunities for education and career advancement
- Access to on-base facilities, such as gyms and recreation centers
- Home loan guarantees and other housing benefits
- Shopping privileges at on-base stores
- Travel opportunities and discounts
Education Benefits
The Army offers a variety of education benefits to Sergeant First Class personnel, including:
- Tuition Assistance (TA)
- Army National Guard's Federal Tuition Assistance Program
- GI Bill benefits
- Education loan forgiveness programs
Responsibilities of a Sergeant First Class
As a senior non-commissioned officer, a Sergeant First Class is responsible for a variety of critical tasks, including:
- Leading and mentoring junior soldiers
- Planning and executing missions
- Advising commanders on key issues
- Providing training and guidance to junior soldiers
- Maintaining unit discipline and morale
- Performing administrative and logistical tasks
Leadership Responsibilities
As a leader, a Sergeant First Class is responsible for setting the tone for their unit and providing guidance and mentorship to junior soldiers. This includes:
- Providing training and guidance on key skills and tasks
- Mentoring junior soldiers on career development and advancement
- Leading by example and setting a positive tone for the unit
- Making key decisions and providing recommendations to commanders
Sergeant First Class Image Gallery
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Sergeant First Class salary and benefits, as well as the requirements and responsibilities associated with this esteemed position. If you are considering a career in the Army, we encourage you to explore the many opportunities available to you.