What is a mos in the military?

What is a MOS in the Military?

In the United States military, a MOS is an acronym that stands for Military Occupational Specialty. A MOS is a way to categorize a person’s job or occupation in the military, with different MOSs denoting specific tasks, skills, and levels of responsibility within each branch of the military. This article will explore the basics of MOSs, the different types of MOSs, and how they play a crucial role in the operation of the military.

History of Military Occupational Specialties

The concept of MOSs has its roots in the early 20th century, when the US Army established the concept of "vocational specialties" to standardize job descriptions and classifications for soldiers. In 1967, the Department of Defense (DoD) standardized the concept of MOSs across all branches of the military, and the MOS classification system was born. Since then, the system has evolved to include new and unique MOSs as technology, tactics, and strategic threats have changed.

Types of MOSs

Within the military, MOSs are categorized into broad career fields such as:

• Combat and combat support (e.g., infantry, artillery)
• Combat service support (e.g., supply, logistics)
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• Enlisted and officer services (e.g., chaplains, military police)
• Medical and healthcare services
• Intelligence, security, and law enforcement

Additionally, MOSs can also be classified into:

• Enlisted MOSs: These are job codes assigned to enlisted personnel and typically require technical training. Examples include Infantryman (11B), Electrical Journeyman (68W), and Cook (95B).

• Officer MOSs: These are job codes assigned to commissioned officers and require a college degree. Examples include Intelligence Officer (35P), Pilot (11F), and Judge Advocate General (2772).

How to Become an MOS

To become an MOS in the military, an individual typically needs to meet the following requirements:

• Meet the Basic Eligibility Requirements: The military requires all recruits to be citizens of the United States and between the ages of 17 and 35, with some exceptions.

• Choose an Enlistment Option: Potential enlistees can choose between Active Duty, Reserve, and National Guard service, with differing requirements and benefits.

• Take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB): The ASVAB is a series of exams that assess cognitive skills such as math, science, and language. MOS assignments are based on a score, with certain MOSs requiring higher or lower scores.

• Attend Military Training: Depending on the MOS, trainees attend Basic Combat Training (BCCT) and then specialty training, known as AIT (Advanced Individual Training).

Bullet Points: Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) Career Fields

Here are some of the main career fields in the military, categorized by major branches:

• Air Force:

• Army:

• Navy:

• Marines:

• Coast Guard:

Conclusions

In conclusion, Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs) are essential in the military, categorizing jobs and assigning duties according to specific skills, skills, and responsibilities. Choosing an MOS can shape the direction of an individual’s military career and set the stage for lifelong benefits, education, and civilian success. Whether it’s through enlisted or officer routes, understanding the diverse MOS spectrum can help recruits navigate their military journey.