What Is Mos? It stands for Military Occupational Specialty, a term used by the U.S. Army to classify jobs. At WHAT.EDU.VN, we provide free answers to all your questions about the Army MOS and different career paths. This includes the requirements, different areas and how they relate to your civilian career as well as transferable skills. This guide will provide a detailed overview of MOS codes, the ASVAB, and research resources.
1. What Does MOS Stand For in the Military?
MOS stands for Military Occupational Specialty. It is a code used by the U.S. Army to identify a soldier’s specific job or career field. The MOS code is a combination of numbers and letters that define the duties, responsibilities, and training associated with a particular military job. Each MOS designation involves extensive special training and offers opportunities for advancement. Military personnel also have the option to move laterally and switch to other MOS designations to gain additional training and skills in that field.
1.1. What Is the Purpose of MOS?
The primary purpose of the MOS system is to classify and manage military personnel based on their skills and training. This allows the Army to effectively assign soldiers to positions where their expertise is most needed.
1.2. What Are the Different Types of MOS?
The U.S. Army has a wide range of MOSs that cover various career fields, including combat arms, combat support, and service support.
- Combat Arms: These MOSs involve direct combat roles, such as infantry, armor, and artillery.
- Combat Support: These MOSs provide essential support to combat arms, such as engineering, military police, and signal corps.
- Service Support: These MOSs provide administrative, logistical, and medical support to the Army, such as healthcare, transportation, and quartermaster corps.
2. How Are MOS Codes Structured?
MOS codes typically consist of a combination of numbers and letters. The specific structure can vary depending on the MOS, but it generally includes the following elements:
- Branch Code: A two-digit number that identifies the broad career field or branch of the Army.
- Skill Code: A letter that indicates the level of skill or expertise associated with the MOS.
- Specialty Code: A number that further defines the specific duties and responsibilities of the MOS.
- Additional Skill Identifiers (ASI): Optional codes that denote specialized skills or qualifications.
- Language Identifier: Optional codes that indicates language abilities.
Here is the general structure: [Branch Code][Skill Code][Specialty Code][ASI (Optional)][Language Identifier (Optional)]
2.1. Examples of MOS Codes
- 11B: Infantryman
- 12B: Combat Engineer
- 25U: Signal Support Systems Specialist
- 68W: Combat Medic Specialist
- 92Y: Unit Supply Specialist
Alt: Soldiers navigate an obstacle course during a training exercise, simulating combat scenarios to enhance readiness and teamwork.
2.2. Decoding MOS Codes
To fully understand an MOS code, you need to consult the official Army regulations and manuals. These resources provide detailed descriptions of each MOS, including the required training, duties, and qualifications.
For example, the Army Regulation 611-201, Army Personnel Selection and Classification, outlines the specific requirements and duties for each MOS. You can find this regulation on the Army Publishing Directorate website.
3. What Are the Key Career Management Fields and Their MOS Designations?
Several career management fields (CMFs) encompass various MOS designations, each with specific roles and responsibilities. Below are some of the key CMFs:
3.1. Interpreter/Translator (MOS 09)
- Description: Interprets and translates foreign languages (both spoken & written) into English, and vice versa.
- Responsibilities: Provides linguistic support for military operations, intelligence gathering, and cultural understanding.
3.2. The Infantry Branch (MOS 11)
- Description: The main combat force on the ground, tasked with defeating enemy ground troops. Recruits are assigned MOS 11X as enlistees and are assigned as Infantryman (11B) or Indirect Fire Infantryman (11C) during training.
- Responsibilities: Engages in direct combat, secures territory, and conducts offensive and defensive operations.
3.3. The Corps of Engineers (MOS 12)
- Description: Specialists who are adept at building, demolition, and mobility. They assist on the ground to build defenses and obliterate obstacles.
- Responsibilities: Constructs and maintains infrastructure, clears obstacles, and provides mobility support for military operations.
3.4. Field Artillery Soldiers (MOS 13)
- Description: Control large firepower during combat operations by managing various electronics and communications platforms, in addition to weapons systems and munitions.
- Responsibilities: Operates and maintains artillery systems, provides fire support for ground troops, and coordinates fire missions.
3.5. Air Defense (MOS 14 & 15)
- MOS 14 Description: Units operate and maintain systems designed to impede or intercept enemy-fired long- and short-range missiles. Patriot Batteries are around the world to deter and challenge threats of incoming enemy missiles.
- MOS 15 Description: Operates and maintains helicopters, planes, and unmanned aerial vehicles. They also transport equipment and personnel and deliver combat action to enemy ground troops.
- Responsibilities: Protects airspace from enemy aircraft and missiles, operates air defense systems, and coordinates air defense operations.
3.6. Cyber Operations Specialists (MOS 17)
- Description: Provides Army intelligence and information. They safeguard digital data from enemy hackers by maintaining security and introducing new cybersecurity.
- Responsibilities: Defends military networks and systems from cyber threats, conducts cyber reconnaissance, and supports cyber warfare operations.
3.7. Army Special Forces (MOS 18)
- Description: Special Forces train allied troops and engage in secretive direct-action missions around the world. Army Special Forces members earn the right to wear the prestigious Green Beret upon completion of rigorous qualifications courses.
- Responsibilities: Conducts special operations missions, trains foreign militaries, and engages in unconventional warfare.
3.8. Army Armor (MOS 19)
- Description: Employs armored vehicles such as the M1 Abrams Tank and the Bradley Fighting Vehicle.
- Responsibilities: Operates and maintains tanks and other armored vehicles, conducts armored reconnaissance, and provides fire support for ground troops.
3.9. The Signal Corps (MOS 25)
- Description: Provides secure and reliable communications between soldiers, helicopters, and ground commanders. They also intercept, gather, and decipher enemy communications.
- Responsibilities: Establishes and maintains communication networks, operates communication equipment, and provides communication support for military operations.
3.10. Electronic Warfare Specialists (MOS 29)
- Description: Assist troops by using electromagnetic and directed energy to control and defeat the enemy’s electronic systems.
- Responsibilities: Conducts electronic warfare operations, disrupts enemy communications, and protects friendly forces from electronic threats.
3.11. Military Police (MOS 31)
- Description: Functions largely as regular police departments do, by preventing crime and responding to emergencies on Army bases around the world. They also investigate crimes on base and have arrest authority. Army Working Dog Handlers also fall under MOS 31.
- Responsibilities: Enforces laws and regulations, provides security for military installations, and conducts law enforcement operations.
3.12. Military Intelligence (MOS 35)
- Description: Collects and shares information regarding targeting, enemy forces, and capabilities with combat soldiers.
- Responsibilities: Gathers and analyzes intelligence information, provides intelligence support for military operations, and conducts counterintelligence activities.
3.13. Psychological Operations (MOS 37)
- Description: Influences local populations to not join insurgencies, as well as persuade enemy combatants to switch sides and leave the battlefield.
- Responsibilities: Conducts psychological operations, influences foreign populations, and supports military objectives through information warfare.
3.14. Adjutant General’s Corps (MOS 42)
- Description: Provides personnel and administrative support to Army field commanders, including maintaining personnel records, handling mail, and tracking awards & promotions.
- Responsibilities: Manages personnel records, provides administrative support, and handles personnel-related matters.
3.15. Public Affairs (MOS 46)
- Description: Develops & implements public affairs programs and activities to support the US Army’s mission and serves as liaison to media outlets.
- Responsibilities: Manages public relations, communicates with the media, and provides public information support.
3.16. Religious Affairs Specialists (MOS 56)
- Description: Plans and supports worship services and religious support operations.
- Responsibilities: Provides religious support for soldiers, conducts religious services, and advises commanders on religious matters.
3.17. Army Healthcare (MOS 68)
- Description: A full range of medical professionals who assist in combat zones and stateside hospitals.
- Responsibilities: Provides medical care for soldiers, conducts medical research, and supports medical operations.
3.18. Recruiting & Retention (MOS 79)
- Description: This is where you will find recruiters and career counselors.
- Responsibilities: Recruits new soldiers, provides career counseling, and manages retention programs.
3.19. Transportation Specialists (MOS 88)
- Description: Operates and repairs transportation vehicles across the Army arsenal, including air, land, sea and rail.
- Responsibilities: Operates and maintains transportation vehicles, manages transportation operations, and provides transportation support.
3.20. Ammunition Specialists (MOS 89)
- Description: They are involved in ammunition, mechanical maintenance, and ordinance.
- Responsibilities: Manages ammunition supplies, maintains ammunition equipment, and provides ammunition support.
3.21. Mechanics and Equipment Maintenance (MOS 91)
- Description: Repair and maintain a variety of vehicles and equipment in the Army arsenal.
- Responsibilities: Repairs and maintains military vehicles and equipment, conducts maintenance operations, and provides maintenance support.
3.22. Quartermaster Corps (MOS 92)
- Description: Provides troops with supplies such as food, water, petroleum, repair parts, and more.
- Responsibilities: Manages supply operations, provides supplies to soldiers, and maintains supply equipment.
3.23. Combat Electronic Systems Repair/Maintenance (MOS 94)
- Description: Support technical combat electronic systems.
- Responsibilities: Repairs and maintains combat electronic systems, conducts maintenance operations, and provides maintenance support.
Alt: A group of soldiers collaboratively repair a vehicle, showcasing teamwork and technical skills in vehicle maintenance.
4. How to Choose an MOS?
Selecting the right MOS is a crucial step in your military career. It should align with your interests, skills, and career goals.
4.1. The ASVAB Test
The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is a multiple-aptitude test that helps determine your eligibility for enlistment in the U.S. military. The ASVAB assesses your knowledge and skills in various areas, which can help you identify MOSs that you may be well-suited for.
4.1.1. ASVAB Subsections
The ASVAB is comprised of 10 subsections that measure your knowledge in specific areas, which provides an indication of your academic and technical ability. The aptitude areas include:
- General Science (GS)
- Arithmetic Reasoning (AR)
- Word Knowledge (WK)
- Paragraph Comprehension (PC)
- Mathematics Knowledge (MK)
- Electronics Information (EI)
- Auto Information (AI)
- Shop Information (SI)
- Mechanical Comprehension (MC)
- Assembling Objects (AO)
4.1.2. ASVAB and Enlistment
The AR, WK, PC, and MK sections comprise the Armed Forces Qualification Test, which determines whether or not you can enlist. The rest of the exam determines your qualification for the different career paths within the Army.
It is highly recommended to study hard for the ASVAB in general, but especially if you’re interested in a particularly sought-after or niche MOS. There are study guides and practice tests available online that can help you get the score you want. When you sign your enlistment contract, you will be able to choose from a list of available MOS designations that you qualify for. Depending on how in-demand a job is, some MOS designations may come with an enlistment bonus.
For example, if you score high in mechanical comprehension (MC) and auto information (AI), you may be well-suited for an MOS in vehicle maintenance or engineering.
4.2. Researching MOS Options
In addition to the ASVAB, it is essential to research different MOS options to find one that aligns with your interests and career goals.
4.2.1. Talking to Recruiters
Your recruiter will be able to give you information on the available MOS designations that you qualify for or connect you with recruiters from that specific branch. They can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day duties, training requirements, and career progression opportunities for different MOSs.
4.2.2. Job Shadowing
You can also ask about job shadowing, which will give you an opportunity to see firsthand how the job functions on a day-to-day basis. While job shadowing is not available for all MOS designations, your recruiter can also connect you to someone in that particular role via phone or email. This will allow you to ask specific questions that your recruiter might not be able to answer and figure out which jobs are right for you.
4.2.3. Transferable Skills
Another thing to consider in your research is transferable skills. While this does require a lot of forethought, it’s a good idea to consider what jobs within the military have skills that are transferable to civilian life. Many MOS designations prepare you for non-military careers in the same field and will make transitioning back to civilian life after enlistment much easier.
For instance, an MOS in communications can prepare you for a career in journalism or public relations after your military service.
5. How to Prepare for the ASVAB?
Preparing for the ASVAB is essential to ensure you qualify for the MOS you desire. The higher your score, the more options you will have.
5.1. Study Guides and Practice Tests
Numerous study guides and practice tests are available online and in libraries. These resources can help you review the material covered on the ASVAB and familiarize yourself with the test format. Peterson’s Master ASVAB is a popular study guide that provides comprehensive coverage of the ASVAB topics.
5.2. Online Resources
Many websites offer free ASVAB practice tests and study materials. These resources can be a valuable supplement to traditional study methods. Websites such as Khan Academy and Military.com offer free resources for ASVAB preparation.
5.3. Tutoring
If you struggle with certain subjects, consider seeking tutoring assistance. A tutor can provide personalized instruction and help you overcome your weaknesses.
6. What Are Transferable Skills from Military MOS to Civilian Careers?
One of the significant benefits of military service is the development of transferable skills that can be valuable in civilian careers. Many MOS designations provide training and experience that can be directly applied to civilian jobs.
6.1. Leadership and Management Skills
Many MOSs involve leadership and management responsibilities, which can be highly valuable in civilian careers. For example, officers and non-commissioned officers (NCOs) gain experience in leading and managing teams, setting goals, and making decisions under pressure.
6.2. Technical Skills
Many MOSs provide technical training and experience in areas such as electronics, mechanics, and computer science. These skills can be directly applied to civilian jobs in these fields. For example, an MOS in electronics can prepare you for a career as an electrician or electronics technician.
6.3. Communication Skills
Many MOSs require strong communication skills, both written and verbal. These skills are essential in civilian careers that involve interacting with customers, colleagues, or the public. For example, an MOS in public affairs can prepare you for a career in journalism or public relations.
6.4. Problem-Solving Skills
Military service often requires soldiers to solve complex problems in challenging environments. This experience can be highly valuable in civilian careers that require critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Alt: Soldier focused on a computer screen, indicative of tasks involving cybersecurity and digital communication within military operations.
7. What Resources Are Available for Learning About Different MOSs?
Several resources are available to help you learn about different MOSs and make informed decisions about your military career.
7.1. Official Army Websites
The official Army websites provide comprehensive information about different MOSs, including job descriptions, training requirements, and career progression opportunities. The U.S. Army Recruiting Command website is a valuable resource for learning about different MOSs.
7.2. Military Career Counselors
Military career counselors can provide personalized guidance and advice on choosing an MOS that aligns with your interests and career goals. They can also help you develop a plan to achieve your military career goals.
7.3. Veterans Organizations
Veterans organizations can provide valuable resources and support for veterans transitioning to civilian careers. They can also offer guidance on translating your military skills and experience into civilian job qualifications. Organizations such as the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the American Legion provide resources for veterans.
8. What Is The Impact of Choosing an MOS on Career Progression?
The MOS you choose can have a significant impact on your career progression in the military. Some MOSs offer more opportunities for advancement and leadership roles than others.
8.1. Advancement Opportunities
Some MOSs have a clear path for advancement, with opportunities to move up the ranks and take on more responsibility. These MOSs often require additional training and education to qualify for promotion.
8.2. Leadership Roles
Some MOSs provide opportunities to lead and manage teams, which can be valuable for career progression. These MOSs often involve supervising other soldiers and making decisions that impact the mission.
8.3. Specialized Training
Some MOSs offer specialized training that can enhance your skills and qualifications, making you more competitive for promotion. This training may include advanced technical courses, leadership development programs, or specialized certifications.
9. What are Some Myths About MOS That Need Debunking?
There are several common misconceptions about MOSs that need to be debunked to provide a more accurate understanding.
9.1. Myth: All Combat MOSs Are Dangerous
While combat MOSs do involve a higher risk of danger, not all combat MOSs are equally dangerous. Some combat MOSs, such as artillery and air defense, involve operating weapons systems from a distance, which can reduce the risk of direct combat.
9.2. Myth: Service Support MOSs Are Less Important
Service support MOSs are essential for supporting military operations. These MOSs provide critical services such as transportation, supply, and maintenance, which are necessary for the success of the mission.
9.3. Myth: An MOS Determines Your Entire Career
While your initial MOS can influence your career path, it does not necessarily determine your entire career. Soldiers can change their MOS later in their military service, allowing them to explore different career fields and develop new skills.
10. What is the Future of MOS and Military Careers?
The future of MOS and military careers is likely to be shaped by technological advancements, changing global threats, and evolving military strategies.
10.1. Technological Advancements
Technological advancements are transforming military operations, creating new MOSs and requiring soldiers to develop new skills. For example, the rise of cyber warfare has created a demand for cyber operations specialists, who are responsible for defending military networks and systems from cyber threats.
10.2. Changing Global Threats
Changing global threats are also shaping military careers, requiring soldiers to be adaptable and versatile. For example, the rise of terrorism has created a need for soldiers with specialized skills in counterterrorism and unconventional warfare.
10.3. Evolving Military Strategies
Evolving military strategies are also impacting MOSs, requiring soldiers to be trained in new tactics and techniques. For example, the shift towards smaller, more agile military units has created a need for soldiers with cross-functional skills and the ability to operate independently.
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Alt: The U.S. Army insignia represents the organization’s values of duty, honor, and country, symbolizing its commitment to national defense.
