Introduction
What is MOS in Military? Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) are the lifeblood of any military organization, defining the roles and responsibilities of its personnel. At its core, MOS ensures that each service member is trained and assigned to a specific job that aligns with their skills, abilities, and the needs of the military.
These specialties encompass a vast array of functions, ranging from combat operations to logistical support, and play a critical role in the overall effectiveness and readiness of the armed forces.
MOS not only dictates what a service member will do during their time in the military but also shapes their career trajectory and opportunities for advancement.
Understanding the significance of MOS is essential for both recruits and seasoned veterans, as it forms the foundation of military service and provides a framework for organizational structure and operational readiness.
How Are Military Occupational Specialty Lists Used?
Military Occupational Specialty lists serve as a comprehensive catalog of job roles within each branch of the military. These lists are utilized throughout the recruitment, training, and career management processes to ensure that service members are assigned to roles where they can make the greatest impact and contribute effectively to mission success.
During the recruitment process, MOS lists help recruiters match individuals with roles that align with their interests, skills, and aptitudes. This ensures that recruits are placed in positions where they are most likely to excel and find fulfillment in their military careers.
Once recruits enter the military, MOS lists guide their training and development. Each specialty has its own unique training pipeline, ranging from basic training to advanced technical schools and specialized courses. This training equips service members with the knowledge, skills, and certifications needed to perform their duties effectively in their respective roles.
Throughout their careers, service members may have the opportunity to cross-train or reclassify into different MOS based on changing interests, career goals, or the needs of the military.
MOS lists provide a framework for career progression and advancement, allowing service members to specialize in specific areas of expertise or gain broader experience across multiple specialties.
Ultimately, MOS lists are a dynamic tool that adapts to the evolving needs and priorities of the military. By matching personnel with the right roles, MOS ensures that the armed forces remain agile, capable, and mission-ready in the face of ever-changing threats and challenges.
Army MOS List
The Army’s MOS list is extensive and diverse, encompassing a wide range of specialties to support its various missions and functions. Here are some key specialties within the Army:
Interpreter/Translator
Interpreters and translators play a critical role in facilitating communication between military personnel and foreign counterparts, enabling effective collaboration and understanding in multinational environments.
The Infantry Branch
As the backbone of the Army, infantry soldiers are trained for direct combat roles, executing missions such as patrolling, reconnaissance, and engaging enemy forces on the ground.
The Corps of Engineers
Engineers within the Army are responsible for constructing and maintaining infrastructure, fortifications, and mobility assets, supporting the movement and maneuver of friendly forces on the battlefield.
Field Artillery Soldiers
Field artillery soldiers operate and maintain artillery systems, providing indirect fire support to infantry and armored units, and delivering precision firepower against enemy targets.
Air Defense
Air defense specialists operate and maintain weapons systems designed to detect, track, and engage enemy aircraft and incoming enemy missiles, protecting friendly forces from aerial threats.
Cyber Operations Specialists
In an increasingly digital and interconnected world, cyber operations specialists defend Army networks from cyber threats, conduct offensive cyber operations, and provide critical cyber intelligence support.
Army Special Forces
Also known as Green Berets, Army Special Forces members are experts in unconventional warfare, foreign internal defense, and counterterrorism, conducting missions in austere and hostile environments.
Army Armor
Armor soldiers operate and maintain tanks and armored vehicles, providing armored firepower and protection to ground forces during combat operations.
The Signal Corps
Signal soldiers are responsible for establishing and maintaining communication networks, ensuring that commanders can communicate effectively with their units and higher headquarters.
The Judge Advocate General’s Corps
Legal professionals within the Army, JAG officers provide legal advice, support, and services to commanders, soldiers, and their families, ensuring compliance with military law and regulations.
Electronic Warfare Specialists
Electronic warfare specialists disrupt and neutralize enemy communication and sensor systems, gaining a tactical advantage and denying the enemy the ability to detect and target friendly forces.
Military Police
Military police are responsible for maintaining law and order, enforcing military laws and regulations, and providing security and protection to military installations and personnel.
Military Intelligence
Army intelligence specialists collect, analyze, and disseminate intelligence to support decision-making at all levels of command, providing critical information on enemy capabilities, intentions, and vulnerabilities.
The Financial Management Technician
Financial management technicians are responsible for managing military finances, budgeting, and accounting, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and transparently.
Psychological Operations
Psychological operations specialists conduct operations to influence enemy behavior and morale through targeted messaging and propaganda, shaping the information environment to support military objectives.
Adjutant General’s Corps
Personnel specialists within the Army, AG soldiers manage human resources functions such as personnel administration, awards, promotions, and casualty reporting, ensuring that combat soldiers are properly accounted for and supported.
Public Affairs
Public affairs specialists communicate the Army’s message to the public and media, fostering transparency, understanding, and support for Army missions and activities.
Army Acquisition Troops
Acquisition soldiers are responsible for acquiring and fielding cutting-edge equipment and technology, ensuring that the Army remains technologically superior and ready to meet future challenges.
Religious Affairs Specialists
Religious affairs specialists (religious support operations) provide spiritual support to soldiers and their families, facilitating the free exercise of religion and ensuring the moral and ethical well-being of military personnel.
The Army Healthcare
From doctors to medics, healthcare specialists provide medical care to soldiers and their families, ensuring their health, readiness, and resilience in the face of physical and mental challenges.
Recruiting and Retention
Recruiters and retention specialists attract and retain quality personnel, ensuring that the Army remains manned and ready to meet its operational requirements.
Transportation Specialists
Transportation specialists are responsible for moving troops, equipment, and supplies by land, air, and sea, ensuring the Army’s mobility and logistical support capabilities.
Ammunition Specialists
Ammunition specialists handle, store, and transport ammunition and explosives, ensuring the safe and reliable supply of firepower to Army units during combat operations.
Mechanics and Equipment Maintenance
Mechanics and maintenance specialists repair and maintain vehicles, weapons, and equipment, ensuring that Army units remain operational and mission-ready at all times.
The Quartermaster Corps
Quartermaster soldiers supply troops with everything they need to sustain themselves, including food, water, clothing, and equipment, ensuring that soldiers are properly equipped and supported for their missions.
Combat Electronic Systems Repair/Maintenance
Combat electronic systems repair and maintenance specialists diagnose and repair electronic systems and equipment, ensuring the operational readiness and effectiveness of Army communications and electronic warfare capabilities.
Marines MOS List
The United States Marine Corps prides itself on its versatility and readiness for any mission. This is reflected in its extensive list of Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), which cover a wide range of roles essential for Marine Corps operations. Here’s a detailed look at some of these MOS:
Personnel and Administration (01)
Personnel and administration Marines manage personnel records, perform administrative tasks, and provide support for personnel actions such as promotions, transfers, and awards. They ensure the smooth functioning of administrative processes within the Marine Corps.
Intelligence (02)
Intelligence Marines gather, analyze, and disseminate intelligence to support Marine Corps operations. They collect information on enemy capabilities, intentions, and vulnerabilities, providing critical insights for decision-making at all levels of command.
Infantry (03)
Infantry Marines are the backbone of the Marine Corps, trained for direct combat roles on land. They execute missions such as patrolling, reconnaissance, and engaging enemy ground troops forces, operating in diverse environments and conditions.
Logistics (04)
Logistics Marines provide essential support for Marine Corps operations, managing supply chains, transportation, maintenance, and distribution of equipment and supplies. They ensure that Marines have the resources they need to accomplish their missions.
Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF) (05)
MAGTF Marines are trained to operate as part of a combined arms team, integrating ground, air, and logistics elements to form a cohesive fighting force capable of rapid deployment and sustained operations.
Communications (06)
Communications Marines operate and maintain communication systems, ensuring that Marines can communicate effectively on the battlefield. They provide essential connectivity for command and control, coordination, and situational awareness.
Field Artillery (08)
Field artillery Marines provide indirect fire support to Marine units, delivering precision firepower using cannons, rockets, and missiles. They play a critical role in suppressing enemy positions and providing fire support for maneuvering forces.
Training (09)
Training Marines are responsible for training and preparing Marines for combat. They develop and execute training programs, conduct evaluations, and ensure that Marines are proficient in their respective specialties.
Utilities (11)
Utilities Marines provide essential utilities such as water, electricity, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) support for Marine Corps installations and facilities, ensuring that Marines have the infrastructure they need to operate.
Engineer, Construction, Facilities and Equipment (13)
Engineer Marines are responsible for construction, facilities maintenance, and equipment support within the Marine Corps. They build and repair infrastructure, facilities, and equipment to support Marine Corps operations.
Tank and Assault Amphibious Vehicle (18)
Tank and Assault Amphibious Vehicle (AAV) Marines operate and maintain tanks and amphibious vehicles, providing armored firepower and mobility support for Marine Corps operations on land and sea.
Ground Ordnance Maintenance (21)
Ground ordnance maintenance Marines maintain and repair weapons and munitions for Marine Corps units, ensuring that Marines have reliable and effective firepower to accomplish their missions.
Ammunition and Explosive Ordnance Disposal (23)
Ammunition and explosive ordnance disposal Marines handle, store, and dispose of ammunition and explosives. They ensure the safe handling and disposal of ordnance to protect Marines and civilians from harm.
Signals Intelligence/Ground Electronic Warfare (26)
Signals intelligence and ground electronic warfare Marines collect and analyze electronic signals intelligence to support Marine Corps operations. They intercept and exploit enemy communications and electronic emissions, providing critical intelligence for decision-making.
Linguist (27)
Linguist Marines provide linguistic support, translating and interpreting foreign languages to facilitate communication with foreign forces and populations. They play a crucial role in enabling collaboration and understanding in multinational environments.
Ground Electronics Maintenance (28)
Ground electronics maintenance Marines repair and maintain electronic systems and equipment for Marine Corps units. They ensure the operational readiness of communication, navigation, and sensor systems critical for Marine Corps operations.
Supply Administration and Operations (30)
Supply administration and operations Marines manage supply chains, inventory, and logistics operations for Marine Corps units. They ensure that Marines are properly equipped and supplied to accomplish their missions.
Distribution Management (31)
Distribution management Marines coordinate the distribution of supplies and equipment to Marine Corps units. They manage transportation, storage, and delivery operations to ensure timely and efficient distribution of resources.
Food Service (33)
Food service Marines prepare and serve meals for Marine Corps units, ensuring that Marines are well-fed and nourished to sustain their physical and mental performance during operations.
Financial Management (34)
Financial management Marines manage military finances, budgeting, and accounting for Marine Corps units. They ensure the proper allocation and accountability of funds to support Marine Corps operations.
Motor Transport (35)
Motor transport Marines operate and maintain motor vehicles for transportation support within the Marine Corps. They ensure the safe and efficient movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies.
Morale Welfare and Recreation (41)
Morale welfare and recreation Marines provide recreational and morale-boosting activities for Marine Corps units. They promote the well-being and quality of life for Marines and their families.
Public Affairs (43)
Public affairs Marines communicate the Marine Corps’ message to the public and media, fostering transparency, understanding, and support for Marine Corps missions and activities.
Legal Services (44)
Legal services Marines provide legal support and advice to Marine Corps units. They ensure compliance with military law and regulations and provide legal assistance to Marines and their families.
Combat Camera (46)
Combat camera Marines capture and document Marine Corps operations through photography and videography. They provide visual documentation for training, historical records, and public affairs.
Music (55)
Music Marines provide musical support for Marine Corps ceremonies, events, and morale-boosting activities. They enhance the esprit de corps and tradition of the Marine Corps through music.
Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense (57)
Chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) defense Marines protect against CBRN threats and hazards. They detect, identify, and mitigate CBRN risks to ensure the safety and readiness of Marine Corps units.
Military Police and Corrections (58)
Military police and corrections Marines maintain law and order within the Marine Corps. They enforce military laws and regulations, provide security, and operate correctional facilities.
Electronics Maintenance (59)
Electronics maintenance Marines repair and maintain electronic systems and equipment for Marine Corps units. They ensure the operational readiness of communication, navigation, and sensor systems.
Aircraft Maintenance (60/61/62)
Aircraft maintenance Marines maintain and repair aircraft for Marine Corps aviation units. They ensure the airworthiness and operational readiness of Marine Corps aircraft.
Avionics (63/64)
Avionics Marines maintain and repair avionics systems and equipment for Marine Corps aircraft. They ensure the functionality and performance of aircraft electronic systems.
Aviation Ordnance (65)
Aviation ordnance Marines handle and maintain aviation ordnance for Marine Corps aircraft. They ensure that aircraft are armed and equipped with ordnance for missions.
Aviation Logistics (66)
Aviation logistics Marines provide logistical support for Marine Corps aviation units. They manage supply chains, maintenance, and transportation operations to support aviation missions.
Meteorology and Oceanography (68)
Meteorology and oceanography Marines provide weather and oceanographic support for Marine Corps operations. They forecast weather conditions and assess environmental factors to support decision-making.
Airfield Services (70)
Airfield services Marines provide support services for Marine Corps airfields. They manage airfield operations, maintenance, and services to support aviation missions.
Air Control/Air Support/Anti-air Warfare/Air Traffic Control (72)
Air control, air support, anti-air warfare, and air traffic control Marines coordinate air operations and provide air support for Marine Corps units. They ensure the safe and effective use of airspace and provide air support to ground forces.
Navigation Officer/Enlisted Flight Crews (73)
Navigation officers and enlisted flight crews navigate aircraft and operate as flight crew for Marine Corps aviation units. They ensure safe and precise flight operations in various mission scenarios.
Miscellaneous Requirements MOS (80)
Miscellaneous requirements MOS cover various specialized roles within the Marine Corps. These MOS fulfill unique functions critical to Marine Corps operations, such as special weapons handling, embassy security, and foreign liaison.
Each of these MOS plays a vital role in supporting Marine Corps missions and maintaining its readiness to respond to threats and challenges around the world. Marines in these specialties exemplify the Corps’ ethos of adaptability, discipline, and readiness to overcome any obstacle in defense of the nation.
Air Force AFSC LIST
The United States Air Force utilizes the Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC) to designate its occupational specialties. These specialties encompass a diverse range of roles essential for Air Force operations. Here’s a detailed look at some of these AFSC categories:
Operations
Operations AFSCs cover a wide range of roles involved in planning, executing, and supporting Air Force missions. This includes roles such as pilots, air battle managers, and combat systems officers who operate aircraft and oversee mission execution.
Maintenance & Logistics
Maintenance and logistics AFSCs are responsible for the maintenance, repair, and sustainment of Air Force aircraft, vehicles, and equipment. These roles ensure that Air Force assets remain operational and mission-ready.
Support
Support AFSCs provide essential support services for Air Force operations, including roles such as personnel specialists, finance technicians, and logistics planners. They ensure the effective functioning of Air Force units and the well-being of Air Force personnel.
Medical & Dental
Medical and dental AFSCs provide healthcare services for Air Force personnel and their families. This includes roles such as doctors, nurses, and dentists who deliver medical care and support the health and readiness of Air Force personnel.
Special Duty Assignments
Special duty assignments AFSCs encompass specialized roles that require unique skills and qualifications. This includes roles such as recruiters, military training instructors, and special operations weather technicians who perform critical functions for the Air Force.
Each AFSC category plays a vital role in supporting Air Force missions and maintaining its readiness to respond to global threats and challenges.
Navy Rating List
The United States Navy utilizes ratings to designate its enlisted personnel’s occupational specialties. These ratings encompass a diverse array of roles essential for Navy operations. Here’s a detailed look at some of these Navy ratings:
Administration
Administration ratings provide administrative support for Navy units, including roles such as yeomen and personnel specialists who manage personnel records and perform administrative tasks.
Aviation
Aviation ratings cover various roles related to Navy aviation operations, including pilots, aircrewmen, and aviation maintenance technicians who operate and maintain aircraft.
Cryptology (Information Warfare)
Cryptology ratings involve roles related to signals intelligence, cybersecurity, and information warfare, including cryptologic technicians who gather and analyze intelligence and conduct cyber operations.
Intelligence
Intelligence ratings involve roles related to intelligence analysis and collection, including intelligence specialists who gather and analyze information to support Navy operations.
Medical and Dental
Medical and dental ratings involve roles related to healthcare services for Navy personnel and their families, including hospital corpsmen and dental technicians who provide medical and dental care.
Nuclear
Nuclear ratings involve roles related to the operation and maintenance of nuclear propulsion systems onboard Navy ships, including nuclear machinist’s mates and nuclear electricians.
Builders: The SEABEE Community
Builders ratings involve roles related to construction and engineering projects for the Navy, including construction electricians, steelworkers, and builders who build and maintain Navy facilities and infrastructure.
Security (Military Police)
Security ratings involve roles related to security and law enforcement for the Navy, including master-at-arms who provide security for Navy installations and personnel.
Special Warfare/Special Operations
Special warfare ratings involve roles related to special operations and combat diving, including Navy SEALs and special warfare boat operators who conduct special operations missions.
Submarine
Submarine ratings involve roles related to the operation and maintenance of submarines, including submariners who operate and maintain submarine systems.
Surface Combat Systems
Surface combat systems ratings involve roles related to the operation and maintenance of surface warfare systems, including fire controlmen and sonar technicians who operate and maintain surface combat systems.
Surface Engineering
Surface engineering ratings involve roles related to the engineering and maintenance of surface ships, including damage controlmen and machinery repairmen who maintain ship systems.
Each Navy rating plays a critical role in supporting Navy missions and maintaining its readiness to operate around the world.
Coast Guard Rating List
The United States Coast Guard utilizes ratings to designate its enlisted personnel’s occupational specialties. These ratings encompass a wide range of roles essential for Coast Guard operations, including search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, and maritime safety.
Examples of Coast Guard ratings include boatswain’s mate, maritime enforcement specialist, and operations specialist.
Job Specialty Rating Process
The job specialty rating process varies by service but typically involves aptitude testing, training, and assignment based on the needs of the military and the preferences of the service member. Service members may express preferences for certain specialties, but ultimately, assignments are based on the needs of the military and individual qualifications.
Conclusion
Military occupational specialties form the backbone of the armed forces, providing the specialized skills and expertise needed to fulfill a wide range of missions and operations. Whether on land, at sea, or in the air, service members in every specialty contribute to the defense and security of their nation.
FAQ
Can service members change their specialty?
Service members may have the opportunity to change specialties through reclassification or lateral moves, but these opportunities are subject to availability and the needs of the military.
How are specialties assigned?
Specialties are assigned based on a combination of aptitude testing, training, and the needs of the military. Service members may express preferences for certain specialties, but final assignments are determined by military requirements and individual qualifications.
Are specialties transferrable to civilian careers?
Many military specialties provide valuable skills and training that are transferrable to civilian careers. Service members may receive certifications and qualifications that are recognized by civilian employers, enhancing their employability after military service.