US Army jobs and careers on usarmy.com http://www.usarmy.com Mon, 14 May 2012 21:55:00 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2 Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard, Air Force & National Guard 2012 Age Requirements For Enlistment http://www.usarmy.com/2149/army-navy-marines-coast-guard-air-force-national-guard-2012-age-requirements-for-enlistment/ http://www.usarmy.com/2149/army-navy-marines-coast-guard-air-force-national-guard-2012-age-requirements-for-enlistment/#comments Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:22:40 +0000 larryf http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2149 Age Requirements The Army, Navy, Marines, National Guard, Air Force and the Coast Guard have varying age requirements.  The minimum age for all military branches is 18 at this time however you may enlist at 17 with a parental consent.  Too confirm, you must speak to your military recruiter.  The maximum ages vary but at this time the Army is age 35, Marines maximum age is 28, the Navy maximum age is 34, the Air Force maximum age is 27 and the Coast Guard maximum age is 27.   However and again, these age requirements can change at any time based on the needs of the military branch in which you’re applying. Also, for the Reserves:  Army Reserves 35, Army National Guard 35 (changed from 42), Air Force Reserve 34, Air National Guard 40 (changed from 34), Navy Reserves 39, Marines 29 and the Coast Guard Reserves is age 39.  However, due to each branch needs and the political envirnoment… you must confirm with your area recruiter for your specific branch for the latest age requirements.

Educational Requirements

A high school degree is usually a requirement for any enlistment in all the USMilitary service branches.  However, a GED may qualify however you need to confirm with your designated recruiter.

Citizenship Requirements

U.S. citizens or Permanent Resident Aliens (people who have a “Green Card”) may join the United States military.  However, each Service has its own enlistment requirements. Contact your military recruiter for more advice on a specific situation.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2149/army-navy-marines-coast-guard-air-force-national-guard-2012-age-requirements-for-enlistment/feed/ 25 Army Reserve Jobs http://www.usarmy.com/2139/army-reserve-jobs/ http://www.usarmy.com/2139/army-reserve-jobs/#comments Wed, 14 Dec 2011 13:01:31 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2139 army reserve jobsThe Army Reserve has a job for everyone. No matter who you are, where you live, or what your interests, when you decide to join the Reserve there is a job that will match your every desire. With the ability to choose from more than 150 Military Occupational Specialties (MOSs), it is safe to say that you will find a path that is perfect for you.

General Qualifications

Before you can choose from one of the many job opportunities in the Army Reserve, you must make sure you qualify for service.

- 17 to 35 years old

- United States citizen or permanent resident alien

- Good moral standing

- Good physical condition

Some positions have additional qualifications. You can discuss this detail with your recruiter.

Job Categories

Every job fits into a specific category. Learning a little bit about each category will make it easier for you when the time comes to choose an opportunity.

- Administrative Support

- Arts and Media

- Combat

- Computers and Technology

- Construction and Engineering

- Combat Support and Intelligence

- Legal and Law Enforcement

- Mechanics

- Medical

- Aviation and Transportation

Do any of these job categories pique your interest? Once you choose a category, you can dedicate your time to finding the specific job that is best for you. For example, some of the most popular “computers and technology” jobs include: computer systems repairer, information technology specialist, signal support systems specialist, multimedia illustrator, and cryptologic linguist among others.

As you search through the many Army Reserve jobs you should be searching for one (or more) that matches your interests and skills. Once you have a few options, you can learn more about the responsibilities of each one and whether or not it is truly what you are interested in.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2139/army-reserve-jobs/feed/ 1 Talking to a Recruiter about the Army Reserve http://www.usarmy.com/2135/talking-to-a-recruiter-about-the-army-reserve/ http://www.usarmy.com/2135/talking-to-a-recruiter-about-the-army-reserve/#comments Wed, 07 Dec 2011 13:17:02 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2135 army reserve recruiterSome people are intimidated at the thought of speaking with an Army Reserve recruiter. However, this is part of the enlistment process that you cannot overlook. Although this is a big step, there is nothing to be worried about. In fact, you will find that this is one of the best ways to learn more about the Army Reserve as well as how you may fit in.

Learn more about joining the Army Reserve.

The job of an Army Reserve recruiter is simple: to find qualified candidates and to provide them with information regarding the military. Recruiters are trained to speak with potential enlistees in a positive tone, without being forceful. In other words, you are not making any commitment just yet. Instead, your meeting is a way for you to gather information so you can make an informed decision in the future.

Above all else, it is the recruiter’s responsibility to answer any questions that you may have. If you have a question that the recruiter cannot answer, you can be rest assured that he/she will find the answer and get back in touch with you as soon as possible.

To ensure that you don’t miss a single question, write down a few things that you want to ask before your meeting. Everybody is different, but here are several questions you should consider asking. If nothing else, they will open up the conversation and allow you to learn more about the Army Reserve.

Why should I join the Army Reserve?

What type of career can I expect if I join?

Will I be stationed close to home?

What does the training process entail?

Can you give me more information on pay and other benefits, including those for my education?

If you ask these five questions, you can expect detailed answers. Each answer is sure to lead to additional questions from both parties.

No matter if you are ready to join the Army Reserve or simply want to learn more, speaking with a recruiter is sure to put you on the right track.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2135/talking-to-a-recruiter-about-the-army-reserve/feed/ 5 Army Reserve Retirement and Civilian Life http://www.usarmy.com/2126/army-reserve-retirement-and-civilian-life/ http://www.usarmy.com/2126/army-reserve-retirement-and-civilian-life/#comments Thu, 10 Nov 2011 12:58:27 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2126 Army Reserve retirementThere will come a time when you are no longer part of the Army Reserve. But just because this part of your life is over, it does not mean you have to hang up your work boots for good. In fact, you may just be getting started.

Join the Army Reserve today.

With the help of the Army, you can and will find a career that is perfect for you. As a veteran of the Army you will never be left behind – even after you have “retired” and moved on.

Professional Training Certificates

During your time serving in the Army Reserve you have the opportunity to earn professional certifications. With a certificate in hand, you have a much better chance of being hired for the civilian job that interests you most. This gives you something that most other job applicants do not have.

Civilian Job Placement Program

The Partnership for Youth Success program helps soldiers who previously served in the Army Reserve find a civilian job. With this program, you will receive priority consideration at hundreds of organizations all over the country – many of which are part of the Fortune 500. Some of the most well known employers in the program include the NYPD, Southwest Airlines, and Dell.

Army Reserve Retired Pay

Have you completed 20 years or more of service? As an Army Reserve soldier, once you reach this milestone all you have to do is wait until you hit the age of 60 – at that point you qualify for retirement pay. The amount of money that you receive in retirement is based on your Unit Training Pay. With each year served your retirement pay increases.

Retirement Savings Plan

If you are part of the Army Reserve, you are eligible to take part in a retirement savings plan – much like a 401(k) that more traditional employees have access to. This is known as the Thrift Savings Plan and offers the same savings and tax benefits that organizations offer to employees through a 401(k) program.

Veterans’ Benefits

The Army Reserve strongly believes that soldiers should be taken care of for life. In other words, the benefits should not stop upon retirement. Veterans of the Army Reserve are entitled to many benefits, ranging from those that help pay for college to the ability to purchase life insurance at a discounted rate.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2126/army-reserve-retirement-and-civilian-life/feed/ 3 Direct Commission for Army Officers http://www.usarmy.com/2121/direct-commission-for-army-officers/ http://www.usarmy.com/2121/direct-commission-for-army-officers/#comments Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:10:32 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2121 Direct Commission Army OfficerAre you a leader in a professional field such as religion, medicine, or law? Are you interested in enlisting in the Army? With Direct Commission, you have the opportunity to become an Army Commissioned Officer with no wait. Once you complete the appropriate Officer training program, you are commissioned as an officer at a rank determined by your career choice.

Become an officer in the Army.

The professional branches of the Army that offer Direct Commission include: Army Chaplain Corps (religion), Army Medical Department (medicine), and Judge Advocate General’s Corps (law).

Although these three professional branches are best known for offering Direct Commission, there are others in which this is available including: National Guard and Army Reserve.

Upon receiving Direct Commission, you will receive the rank determined by your professional career branch.

Direct Commission Requirements

While receiving Direct Commission sounds like a great idea, you have to meet certain qualifications:

  • United States citizen


  • College graduate


  • Physically fit


  • Meet age requirements as determined by career field

Direct Commission Army Chaplain Corps

As a U.S. Army Chaplain you will serve your country and God at the same time. From providing counsel to families and soldiers to comforting communities during bad times, as a member of the Army Chaplain Corps your day to day tasks are extremely important.

Direct Commission Judge Advocate General’s Corps

Also known as the JAG Corps, this career field was established by George Washington in 1775. Did you know that the JAG Corps is the oldest law firm in the country? The experience that you gain as a JAG Corps Officer will serve you well at the present time and in future law endeavors.

Direct Commission Army Medical Department

As one of the largest health care systems in the world, it is easy to see why so many people are interested in joining the U.S. Army Medical Department. Also known as the AMEDD, Commissioned Officers have access to the most advanced equipment as they serve and heal the nation’s soldiers.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2121/direct-commission-for-army-officers/feed/ 2 News from the Army http://www.usarmy.com/2114/news-from-the-army/ http://www.usarmy.com/2114/news-from-the-army/#comments Mon, 17 Oct 2011 12:11:14 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2114 army newsAs a soldier in the Army, you are well aware of what is going on within this branch of the military. As an outsider looking in, you will not have access to nearly as much information. However, staying current with the latest developments is not nearly as difficult as it once was – thanks to the internet.

Day after day, news from the United States Army is published on thousands of websites. You may never be in position to read every story that hits the internet, but this will not stop you from catching up from time to time.

Want to become a soldier in the US Army?

Latest Army News Stories

1. US Army may cancel programs to trim budget-official

2. Virginia to Honor Army Chaplain Killed in 1918

3. Military robots offer protective solution for troops

4. Boeing Army Radio Program Canceled by Pentagon as Costs Rise

5. US Army moves to Afghan border with NWA

Some of these stories may be of interest to you while others simply offer high quality, accurate information. No matter what, you should continue to stay current with what is going on in the US Army.

From soldiers to civilians and everyone in between, news regarding the Army, as well as other military branches, is a big deal.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2114/news-from-the-army/feed/ 1 Army Bonuses for Active Duty Soldiers http://www.usarmy.com/2109/army-bonuses-for-active-duty-soldiers/ http://www.usarmy.com/2109/army-bonuses-for-active-duty-soldiers/#comments Wed, 05 Oct 2011 12:07:31 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2109 army bonusAs an Active Duty soldier in the Army, there are many opportunities to earn money. In addition to basic pay, bonuses are available for soldiers who complete special training, select a particular career path, have served in the past, or assume extra responsibility.

There are two groups eligible for Army bonuses: Active Duty soldiers and new recruits. Those who are currently serving can receive bonuses to develop certain skills based on their career selection. New recruits are in position to receive cash enlistment bonuses based on meeting qualifications and/or enlisting for a particular skill set.

Common Army Bonuses

Here is a list of the most common bonuses for active duty Army soldiers.

Active Army Enlistment Bonus

With this, you are eligible to receive as much as $40,000. To determine your eligibility, as well as the maximum bonus amount, speak with your local recruiter.

Active Duty Education Bonus

If you enlist for three or more years and have never served in the past, you may qualify for this bonus. Additional requirements include enlisting in the proper Army Military Occupational Specialty and receiving a qualifying aptitude test score. Recruits with an Associate’s degree or better qualify for up to $5,000; 60 or more college hours with no degree qualify for up to $4,000; and 30 to 59 college hours is good for $3,000.

Civilian Acquired Skills Bonus

If you possess skills that the Army is looking for, such as animal care specialties or foreign language proficiency, you may be eligible for a bonus of $5,000.

High Demand MOS

If you enlist for three + years in one of the following careers, you can receive a bonus ranging from $3,000 to $15,000. While careers can and will change (talk to your recruiter), here is the current list: Infantryman, Cannon Crewmember, Field Artillery Automated Tactical Data Systems Specialist, Fire Support Specialist, Multiple Launch Rocket System Crewmember, Field Artillery Firefinder Radar Operator, Air Defense Command, Special Forces Candidate, Cavalry Scout, Microwave Systems Operator-Maintainer, Satellite Communication Systems Operator/Maintainers, Internment/Resettlement Specialists, Light Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic, Quartermaster and Chemical Equipment Repairer, Motor Transport Operator, Ammunition Specialist, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Specialist, Petroleum Supply Specialist, Food Service Operations, Parachute Rigger, Radio and Communications Security Repairer, Special Electronic Devices Repairer, and Electronic Warfare/Cryptology Operations Specialist.

Reenlistment Bonus

Are you currently serving in the Army? If so, you may eventually be eligible for a reenlistment bonus. To qualify, you must meet the following requirements: completed 17 months or more of continuous active duty; qualified in a critical military skill category; not receiving nuclear training pay; and reenlistment for three or more years.

These are just a few of the more popular Army bonus programs. To learn more, speak with your local recruiter or Army representative.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2109/army-bonuses-for-active-duty-soldiers/feed/ 1 Army ROTC – What Happens after Graduation? http://www.usarmy.com/2103/army-rotc-%e2%80%93-what-happens-after-graduation/ http://www.usarmy.com/2103/army-rotc-%e2%80%93-what-happens-after-graduation/#comments Tue, 27 Sep 2011 12:02:26 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2103 ROTC questionsJoining the Army ROTC allows you to attend college while getting a jumpstart on serving your country. On top of this, many cadets qualify for scholarships. Not only do you receive training that will better you now and in the future, but the cost of attending college will quickly become more affordable.

As part of the ROTC program at your college, you are training to become an Officer in the Army. Upon graduation, you will enlist and begin your career.

For more information on the Army ROTC program, contact the representative at your institution.

Army ROTC FAQs

Will I be deployed after graduation?

This depends on many factors, including the branch of the Army you choose and the unit you are assigned to. There is always a chance that a Soldier in the Army will be deployed to an area where help is needed. However, there is no guarantee. One thing is for sure, though: as an Officer in the US Army you will be trained to make the right decisions and to keep yourself, as well as others, as safe as possible.

Can I join the National Guard or Army Reserve after graduation instead of the Army?

The short answer is yes. Some cadets are eligible to serve part-time in the National Guard or Army Reserve while working a civilian career. For more information, contact your ROTC advisor.

What type of career can I expect after completing ROTC and graduating from college?

If you complete the ROTC program you are commissioned as an Army Second Lieutenant. From there, you will receive training in one of 17 different branches of the Army. As you continue your career and receive more and more professional training, you will continue to move through the ranks and take on more responsibility. You are definitely getting off to a good start when you enlist in the Army after completing ROTC.

As a cadet in the ROTC you are able to live a normal college life. At the same time, you are training for a future career in the Army.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2103/army-rotc-%e2%80%93-what-happens-after-graduation/feed/ 0 Computers and Technology – The Army Needs you http://www.usarmy.com/2099/computers-and-technology-%e2%80%93-the-army-needs-you/ http://www.usarmy.com/2099/computers-and-technology-%e2%80%93-the-army-needs-you/#comments Wed, 21 Sep 2011 12:26:40 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2099 army computersDo you have a penchant for computers and technology? Are you looking for a way to put your skills and experience to good use? Are you simply interested in developing these skills as to become a more well rounded professional? If you answered yes to these questions it makes good sense to consider a career with the Army Computers and Technology team.

The US Army has access to the most advanced computers and technology in the world. Along with this, they are developing new equipment to ensure that they are always on top.

As a civilian, finding a job in the computers and technology field can be downright difficult. Not only is there more competition than ever, but the job market is stagnant. This is not a concern if you decide to enlist in the Army. As long as you qualify to enlist, joining this field is a simple process.

Army Computer and Tech Job Options

One of the major benefits of joining the Computer and Technology team of the Army is that you have many job options. This is not a “one size fits all” category. Instead, there are multiple positions to choose from.

Here is a list of the many jobs that make up the Computer and Technology field: Cryptologic Linguist, Signals Intelligence Analyst, Multimedia Illustrator, Avionic Communications Equipment Repairer, Avionic and Survivability Equipment Repairer, Cable Systems Installer, Military Intelligence Systems Maintainer, Microwave Systems Operator, Multichannel Transmission Systems Operator, Network Switching Systems Operator, Radio Operator, Radio and Communications Security, Computer Systems Repairer, Test Measurement and Diagnostic Equipment Maintenance Support Specialist, Counterintelligence Agent, Intelligence Analyst, Information Technology Specialist, Satellite Communication Systems Operator, Signal Support Systems Specialist, Signals Collector, Nodal Network Systems Operator, Signal Officer, Warrant Officer Corps, and Geospatial Intelligence Imagery Analyst.

Do any of these positions pique your interest? With 24 career paths to choose from, one of these is sure to match what you are looking for.

From a Multimedia Illustrator who creates illustrations to an Intelligence Analyst who focuses on gathering information on the enemy through advanced technology, your options run deep.

Why fight for a civilian job in the computer and technology field? You can enlist in the Army, choose one of the careers listed above, and enjoy your job day after day. On top of all this, the training and experience you receive will help you land a job in the civilian world when and if the time comes.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2099/computers-and-technology-%e2%80%93-the-army-needs-you/feed/ 1 Army – Make Money, Receive other Benefits http://www.usarmy.com/2092/army-%e2%80%93-make-money-receive-other-benefits/ http://www.usarmy.com/2092/army-%e2%80%93-make-money-receive-other-benefits/#comments Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:11:02 +0000 cbibey http://www.usarmy.com/?p=2092 Army salaryWhen you become part of the Army you are doing more than signing up to protect your country. You are also giving yourself a “way of life.” Along with this comes above average pay and benefits.

As you probably know, the unemployment rate is high and of those who are working many don’t feel that they are being compensated as they should. Fortunately, you never have to worry about these issues in the Army. Not only will you receive compensation based on your ranking and experience, but you never have to worry about your job going away – it is 100 percent secure.

No matter who you are, as a Soldier in the Army you are going to earn a salary. On top of this, you can expect bonuses, allowances, and education benefits as well.

Types of Army Pay

As noted above, your Army pay is based on several factors including your rank and years of experience.
  • Basic pay for Active Duty Soldiers. If you are a Soldier on Active Duty your basic pay will make up your base salary. Of course, this is just one part of your income. Note: Active Duty Officers will earn more than Soldiers.
  • Drill pay for Army Reserve Soldiers. When training on weekends or during full-time training sessions, those in the Army Reserve are compensated. Your pay increases as you gain more experience and move up the ranks.

Military Bonuses

Your salary is important, but this is not the end all when it comes to earning money as a Soldier in the Army. Here are several military bonuses that you may receive at some point:
  • Enlistment bonus
  • Education bonus
  • Ranger bonus
  • Civilian skills bonus
  • Middle Eastern Translator Aide bonus
  • Officer Candidate School bonus

Military Allowances

Along with your salary and bonuses, there are several allowances that can help offset the cost of living. For example, if you live on an Army base you will receive meals and housing free of cost. If you decide to make your home off base, the Army offers an allowance for meals and housing.
  • Food allowance
  • Housing allowance
  • Cost of living allowance
  • Clothing allowance
  • Family separation allowance
  • Moving and relocation allowance
As a Soldier in the Army you are in position to make money (salary and bonuses) while also receiving a variety of military allowances. The same cannot be said for the majority of civilian careers.]]> http://www.usarmy.com/2092/army-%e2%80%93-make-money-receive-other-benefits/feed/ 0