Understanding Military Civilian Job Equivalents

I'm a bit confused about how military roles relate to civilian jobs. Can anyone explain how skills and experience from the military can transfer to civilian employment? I'm trying to plan ahead for my future career.

Absolutely, understanding how skills and experiences from your military service transfer to the civilian workforce can sometimes be a bit of a challenge, but it's crucial for a smooth transition.

Many of the skills and experience you gain from the military are highly sought after in civilian employment. For example, teamwork, leadership, discipline, adaptability, and problem-solving are all transferable skills. Depending on your role within the military, you may also have gained technical skills that are directly relevant to certain job sectors. For instance, a military medic could transition into healthcare, while a logistics officer could move into supply chain management in a company.

The U.S. Department of Labor has a tool called the "Civilian-to-Military-Occupation Translator" which helps veterans match military skills and experiences with civilian jobs. Another resource is ONet Online's crosswalks feature, which helps you connect your military occupation code (MOC) with related civilian careers.

As part of your transition process, it would also be beneficial to tailor your resume to highlight these transferable skills. Consider translating military jargon into civilian terms so hiring managers can quickly understand your past experiences and abilities.

It's also common for veterans to pursue further education or vocational training after leaving the military, which can help bridge the gap between military roles and civilian careers. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides benefits such as the GI Bill to aid this process.

Planning ahead for your future career is indeed a smart move, but remember that the transition doesn't have to be undertaken alone. There are numerous resources and organizations that provide support and guidance to veterans transitioning into civilian employment.