Military Occupations, Education, & Transition
Military jobs encompass a wide range of roles and responsibilities across all branches of the armed forces. From combat positions to support roles, there are numerous opportunities for individuals with various backgrounds and skillsets to serve in the military.
Combat positions include infantry, special forces, aviation, and armor, among others. These roles require individuals to undergo extensive physical and mental training to prepare for combat and operate in high-stress environments. Support roles include logistics, intelligence, administration, and medical, among others. These roles are crucial to the overall functioning of the military and require individuals with various skills and expertise.
One unique aspect of military jobs is the opportunity for individuals to receive specialized training and certifications that can translate to civilian careers. For example, many military jobs require individuals to operate sophisticated equipment and technologies, such as drones or advanced medical devices, which can provide valuable experience and skills for civilian jobs in related fields.
Military jobs also offer numerous benefits, including healthcare, housing, education, and retirement plans, among others. These benefits can provide financial security for individuals and their families, as well as access to resources and opportunities that may not be available in civilian jobs.
Overall, military jobs provide a unique and rewarding experience for individuals looking to serve their country and gain valuable skills and experience. Whether pursuing a career in the military or transitioning to civilian life, individuals with military experience can bring a wealth of expertise and perspective to various industries and roles.
What are military jobs called?
In the Navy and Coast Guard, the term "rate" is used for enlisted sailors instead of "rank" but rate also describes the job or military occupational specialty (MOS) that sailor is qualified to do.
The Army and USMC use the term MOS while the Navy and Coast Guard use the term rate to denote the job of the enlisted personnel.
In the Air Force, enlisted jobs are known as "AFSCs," or "Air Force Specialty Codes." The Air Force divides their AFSCs (enlisted jobs) into the following overall categories:
Operations
Maintenance & Logistics
Support
Medical & Dental
Legal & Chaplain
Finance & Contracting
Special Investigations
Within these categories, AFSCs are further assigned to "career fields." A career field may have one AFSC assigned to it, or it may have several. AFSCs with similar functions are grouped together in the same career field. (learn more)
Military to Civilian Cross-Walk
The military career crosswalk is a tool that helps veterans translate their military skills and experience into civilian job requirements. The crosswalk compares military job titles and duties to civilian job titles and requirements, highlighting the similarities and differences between the two.
The military career crosswalk is a valuable resource for veterans transitioning to civilian careers because it can help them identify potential job opportunities and understand the skills and qualifications required for those positions. By identifying the civilian equivalents of their military jobs and highlighting the transferable skills they possess, veterans can effectively communicate their experience and qualifications to civilian employers.
In addition, the military career crosswalk can help employers understand the value that veterans can bring to their organizations. By recognizing the transferable skills and experience that veterans possess, employers can more effectively recruit and hire veterans for open positions.