AFSC
AFSC (Air Force Specialty Code) is like a job title system used by the U.S. Air Force to classify different roles and specialties. Think of it as the military version of job codes or position numbers in civilian companies. Each AFSC is a combination of numbers and letters that tells you exactly what job someone did in the Air Force. For example, a cyber operations officer would have a different AFSC than a pilot or a maintenance specialist. When reviewing military resumes, you'll often see these codes listed alongside job titles, and they're very helpful in understanding exactly what role and level of responsibility the candidate held.
Examples in Resumes
Managed training programs for 50+ airmen as Squadron Training Manager (AFSC 3S2X1)
Served as Aircraft Maintenance Supervisor with AFSC 2A377
Led cyber security operations team under Air Force Specialty Code 17S
Typical job title: "Military Veterans"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Military Veterans
Veteran Job Resources
Professional Networks
Support Organizations
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How did your AFSC responsibilities translate to leadership in civilian roles?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate how military leadership experiences connect to civilian management roles, such as team supervision, project management, and strategic planning.
Q: Can you explain how your military specialty prepared you for senior civilian positions?
Expected Answer: Candidate should be able to connect their specific military technical skills and leadership experiences to civilian business needs and management responsibilities.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What civilian industry best matches your AFSC skills and why?
Expected Answer: Listen for clear connections between military technical skills and civilian industry requirements, showing understanding of both environments.
Q: How have you adapted your military training methods to civilian workplace training?
Expected Answer: Look for examples of successfully translating military training and procedures into civilian workplace contexts.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What were your main responsibilities under your AFSC?
Expected Answer: Candidate should clearly explain their military role in civilian terms, focusing on transferable skills and accomplishments.
Q: How do you plan to use your military experience in civilian work?
Expected Answer: Look for understanding of how military skills and experiences can be valuable in civilian workplace settings.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (1-3 years military service)
- Basic military leadership experience
- Technical training in specific AFSC
- Team collaboration
- Following procedures and protocols
Mid (4-8 years military service)
- Squad or team leadership
- Project management experience
- Training and mentoring others
- Advanced technical expertise in AFSC
Senior (8+ years military service)
- Strategic planning and execution
- Large team leadership
- Program management
- Cross-functional coordination
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to translate military experience into civilian terms
- Overuse of military jargon in civilian context
- Lack of adaptation to civilian workplace culture
- No clear career progression within AFSC
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
ATS Benefits For Recruiters: A 2025 Guide to Smarter Hiring
Automated Scorecards in ATS Systems: Your Secret Weapon for Smarter Hiring Decisions
Workforce Solutions Aggregators: The Next Big Thing You Didn't Know You Needed
