MOS Translation Guide
Understanding how your Military Occupational Specialty translates to civilian job roles is crucial for a successful career transition.
What is MOS Translation?
MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) translation is the process of converting military job titles, duties, and skills into language that civilian employers understand. Military terminology can be confusing to hiring managers who haven't served, so translation is essential for:
- Making your experience relatable to civilian employers
- Highlighting transferable skills
- Matching keywords in job descriptions
- Passing Applicant Tracking System (ATS) scans
How CivReady Translates Your MOS
Our AI-powered translation system uses:
- Comprehensive MOS Database: Mappings for Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard specialties
- Industry Keywords: Current civilian job market terminology and buzzwords
- Skill Extraction: Identification of both hard and soft skills from your military roles
- Job Description Matching: Alignment with specific civilian job requirements
- Claude AI: Advanced natural language processing to create compelling, readable descriptions
Translation Examples by Branch
Army
11B - Infantryman
Civilian Translation: Security Professional, Team Leader, Operations Coordinator
Transferable Skills: Leadership, Risk Assessment, Strategic Planning, Team Coordination, Physical Fitness, Weapons Safety, Emergency Response
25B - Information Technology Specialist
Civilian Translation: IT Support Specialist, Network Administrator, Systems Analyst
Transferable Skills: Network Management, Hardware/Software Installation, Troubleshooting, Cybersecurity, Technical Support, Documentation
92A - Automated Logistical Specialist
Civilian Translation: Supply Chain Analyst, Inventory Manager, Logistics Coordinator
Transferable Skills: Inventory Management, Data Entry, Supply Chain Operations, Quality Control, Procurement, ERP Systems
Navy
CTN - Cryptologic Technician Networks
Civilian Translation: Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Security Engineer, Information Security Specialist
Transferable Skills: Network Security, Threat Analysis, Penetration Testing, Incident Response, Security Protocols, Encryption
HM - Hospital Corpsman
Civilian Translation: EMT, Paramedic, Medical Assistant, Patient Care Technician
Transferable Skills: Patient Care, Emergency Medicine, Medical Records, Vital Signs Monitoring, Medication Administration, Triage
Air Force
3D0X2 - Cyber Systems Operations
Civilian Translation: Systems Administrator, DevOps Engineer, IT Operations Specialist
Transferable Skills: Systems Administration, Server Management, Automation, Virtualization, Cloud Computing, Monitoring & Logging
2A6X1 - Aerospace Propulsion
Civilian Translation: Aircraft Mechanic, Propulsion Engineer, Aviation Technician
Transferable Skills: Mechanical Troubleshooting, Engine Maintenance, Quality Assurance, Technical Documentation, Safety Compliance
Marine Corps
0621 - Field Radio Operator
Civilian Translation: Communications Technician, Radio Frequency Engineer, Telecommunications Specialist
Transferable Skills: Radio Operations, Signal Processing, Equipment Maintenance, Communications Protocols, Troubleshooting
0311 - Rifleman
Civilian Translation: Security Officer, Law Enforcement, Emergency Services, Team Leader
Transferable Skills: Leadership Under Pressure, Tactical Planning, Risk Management, Team Coordination, Physical Security, Decision Making
Tips for Effective MOS Translation
- Focus on Outcomes: Instead of describing duties, highlight what you accomplished and the impact you made
- Use Numbers: Quantify your achievements (team size, budget, equipment value, efficiency improvements)
- Match Industry Language: Research job postings in your target field and use similar terminology
- Emphasize Soft Skills: Leadership, communication, and problem-solving are valued across all industries
- Avoid Acronyms: Spell out military abbreviations or replace them with civilian equivalents
- Show Progression: Highlight promotions and increasing responsibility
- Include Certifications: Many military certifications translate directly to civilian credentials
Common Military-to-Civilian Terminology
| Military Term | Civilian Translation |
|---|---|
| Commanded | Led, Managed, Directed |
| Executed | Implemented, Performed, Completed |
| Conducted training | Trained, Educated, Developed |
| Liaison | Coordinator, Point of Contact, Representative |
| Briefed | Presented, Reported, Communicated |
| Platoon/Squad | Team, Department, Work Group |
| After Action Report | Post-Project Analysis, Performance Review |
| Deployment | Assignment, Project, Initiative |
How to Use CivReady for MOS Translation
CivReady automates the translation process:
- Upload your military resume with your MOS clearly stated
- Paste the job description for your target civilian position
- Our AI analyzes both documents to find the best translations and keyword matches
- Review the generated resume and make any personal adjustments
- Download in your preferred format and apply with confidence
Additional Resources
For more help with your military transition:
- User Guide - Step-by-step instructions for using CivReady
- FAQ - Answers to common questions
- Support - Contact us for personalized assistance