What does mos stand for in the military?

What Does MOS Stand for in the Military?

In the military, MOS stands for Military Occupational Specialty. It is a code used to identify a specific job or role within the military. Each branch of the military has its own unique set of MOS codes, and they are used to organize and categorize military personnel into different job specialties.

History of MOS Codes

The use of MOS codes dates back to World War II, when the United States Army developed a system to identify and classify military personnel into different job specialties. The first MOS codes were introduced in 1947, and since then, the system has evolved to include a vast array of job specialties.

How MOS Codes are Assigned

MOS codes are assigned to military personnel based on their job specialty, skills, and qualifications. When a soldier joins the military, they are given a series of aptitude tests and interviews to determine their strengths and abilities. Based on these tests and interviews, the military assigns a MOS code that best fits their skills and qualifications.

Types of MOS Codes

There are several types of MOS codes, including:

• Combat Arms: These are jobs that involve direct combat, such as infantry, artillery, and armor.
• Combat Support: These are jobs that support combat operations, such as intelligence, logistics, and communications.
• Service Support: These are jobs that provide support services to the military, such as medical, finance, and administrative.
• Non-Combat: These are jobs that do not involve direct combat, such as clerical, culinary, and maintenance.

MOS Codes by Branch

Each branch of the military has its own unique set of MOS codes. Here is a breakdown of the most common MOS codes by branch:

• Army:

  • Combat Arms: 11B Infantryman, 11C Indirect Fire Infantryman, 19D Cavalry Scout
  • Combat Support: 35F Intelligence Analyst, 25B Information Technology Specialist
  • Service Support: 42A Human Resources Specialist, 92A Automated Logistical Specialist

• Navy:

  • Combat Arms: 0111 Navy SEAL, 1170 Naval Flight Officer
  • Combat Support: 1310 Intelligence Specialist, 7422 Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician
  • Service Support: 2100 Human Resources Technician, 8402 Yeoman

• Air Force:

  • Combat Arms: 1T1A1 F-16 Fighter Pilot, 1T2A1 A-10 Thunderbolt II Pilot
  • Combat Support: 1B4X1 Intelligence Officer, 1T8X1 Communications and Cyber Officer
  • Service Support: 3S0X1 Supply Technician, 6Z2X1 Cybersecurity Operations

• Marine Corps:

  • Combat Arms: 02 Infantry Officer, 1832 Intelligence Specialist
  • Combat Support: 0131 Intelligence Officer, 2731 Field Wireman
  • Service Support: 8411 Motor Transportation Operator, 2111 Human Resources Specialist

• Coast Guard:

  • Combat Arms: 2106 Intelligence Specialist, 2122 Boatswain’s Mate
  • Combat Support: 0000 Officer, 2400 Intelligence Specialist
  • Service Support: 2101 Human Resources Technician, 2200 Cook

Benefits of Having a MOS Code

Having a MOS code provides numerous benefits to military personnel, including:

• Career Advancement: MOS codes provide a clear career path and opportunities for advancement.
• Job Security: MOS codes ensure that military personnel have a clear job description and responsibilities.
• Training and Development: MOS codes provide training and development opportunities to enhance job skills and performance.
• Compensation: MOS codes determine compensation and benefits for military personnel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MOS stands for Military Occupational Specialty, and it is a code used to identify a specific job or role within the military. Each branch of the military has its own unique set of MOS codes, and they are used to organize and categorize military personnel into different job specialties. Understanding MOS codes can provide numerous benefits to military personnel, including career advancement, job security, training and development, and compensation.

Table: Most Common MOS Codes by Branch

Table: Benefits of Having a MOS Code