MOS
MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) is the military's way of categorizing different jobs and roles within the service. Think of it as a job code or career field designation that tells you exactly what someone did in the military. Each MOS has a specific code (usually a number and letter combination) that represents a particular job, like infantry, intelligence, logistics, or medical care. When veterans list their MOS on resumes, they're essentially telling you their military job title and responsibilities. This helps translate military experience into civilian workforce terms.
Examples in Resumes
Served as MOS 11B Infantry specialist with leadership responsibilities for a 12-person unit
Achieved expert-level qualification in MOS 25B Information Technology Specialist
Trained new recruits in Military Occupational Specialty protocols and procedures
Typical job title: "Military Service Members"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Military Service Members
Military Transition Resources
Professional Networks
MOS Translation Resources
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: Can you explain how your MOS leadership experience translates to civilian team management?
Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate clear examples of leading teams, managing resources, and handling complex responsibilities. They should be able to connect military leadership principles to civilian workplace scenarios.
Q: How did you handle resource management and logistics in your MOS role?
Expected Answer: Candidate should provide examples of managing equipment, supplies, or personnel, showing how they maintained accountability and efficiency in their military role.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What specific technical skills from your MOS can you apply to this position?
Expected Answer: Listen for clear connections between military technical training and civilian job requirements, with specific examples of how these skills were used.
Q: How did you adapt to changes in procedures or technology within your MOS?
Expected Answer: Look for examples of flexibility, willingness to learn, and ability to master new systems or procedures quickly.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What basic skills did you learn in your MOS training that apply to civilian work?
Expected Answer: Candidate should be able to explain fundamental skills like attention to detail, following procedures, teamwork, and basic technical abilities gained during military service.
Q: How do you explain your MOS responsibilities to civilian employers?
Expected Answer: Look for clear communication and ability to translate military terms and duties into civilian workplace equivalents.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (1-3 years)
- Basic MOS qualification completion
- Foundation in military procedures
- Team cooperation experience
- Basic leadership training
Mid (3-6 years)
- Advanced MOS certifications
- Team leadership experience
- Training and mentoring others
- Project management experience
Senior (6+ years)
- Multiple MOS qualifications
- Senior leadership positions
- Strategic planning experience
- Program management expertise
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to clearly explain military experience in civilian terms
- Lack of proper MOS documentation or verification
- No examples of practical application of MOS skills
- Difficulty transitioning from military to civilian workplace culture
