Thoracic Surgeon
Job Overview
As a Thoracic Surgeon, you’ll work closely with colleagues in gastroenterology, oncology, pulmonology, radiation oncology, and other specialties to care for patients. You’ll examine, diagnose, treat, or perform surgery on patients with surgical diseases or injuries to the thorax and vascular system. You’ll conduct and supervise direct patient care, as well as plan and execute disease prevention and health promotion programs. You’ll also exercise a command of medical units as provided by law and regulation, perform special staff functions in health support for commanders at all levels, and conduct medical research on diseases of military importance. Additionally, you’ll conduct, supervise, and participate in graduate medical education and training of other medical personnel needed to sustain a robust and readily available medical system.
History & Deep Dive
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Official Qualification Requirements
This is a commissioning path. Enlisted line scores do not apply — selection is based on education, officer testing and a selection board.
- • Bachelor's degree required
- • Commissioning paths: ROTC, OCS, U.S. Military Academy (West Point), Direct Commission
Last verified: 2026-08-14
Requirements are subject to change by the Department of Defense and each service. Always confirm the current standard with an official recruiter before making a decision.
Required. Officer commissioning is citizen-only: goarmy.com says "Be a U.S. citizen by the time you commission as an Officer," marines.com lists "Be a U.S. citizen" for officers, airforce.com says officers "must be a native-born or naturalized United States citizen," and 10 U.S.C. 532 requires it by law. Verified August 2026.
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Bonuses & Special Pay
Bonus availability changes frequently — confirm current amounts with a recruiter.