I'm planning to join the military after high school and I'm trying to gather as much information as I can. Does anyone know what the process is like to change jobs within the same military branch? How flexible is the military with letting you switch roles?
The process to change jobs, or Military Occupational Specialties (MOS), within the same military branch can vary depending on the service's needs, your performance, and your current contract length. It's usually referred to as reclassifying or cross-training.
Firstly, consider your active duty service commitment (ADSC). Generally, you must complete your initial service obligations in your current role before you can apply for a job change. This can be 2-4 years on average, depending on your military branch and job.
Next, the MOS you're interested in switching to must have vacancies and need additional personnel. The military usually has a high-demand list for jobs that are critically staffed. Should your desired role fall into this category, it may increase your chances of being approved for the switch.
You must also meet the qualifications for the new job. This includes passing any necessary physical or mental aptitude tests, meeting the job's security clearance requirements, and completing the necessary training. If the job is highly specialized, additional schooling might be required.
Lastly, your performance records must be strong. Your command will look at your history, including your performance evaluations and disciplinary records. A history of strong performance can better your chances of approval.
Bear in mind, it can be a lengthy process and there is no guarantee that your request will be approved. It's always best to discuss your options with your chain of command or a career counselor who can provide advice based on your specific circumstances and goals.
A word of advice: it is also recommended to take the time to carefully consider your initial job choice before enlisting. Though job changes are possible, they can be lengthy and uncertain, so it's key that you are as informed as possible about your initial job choice.
CollegeVine’s Q&A seeks to offer informed perspectives on commonly asked admissions questions. Every answer is refined and validated by our team of admissions experts to ensure it resonates with trusted knowledge in the field.