Will the military investigate past jobs?

I know that the military does background checks, so I'm curious about how deep they go. Will they look into my previous jobs? Just trying to be prepared for the process!

Yes, during the military enlistment process, there will be a comprehensive background check which typically includes scrutiny of your employment history. This is part of what is called a Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) Background Screening. However, keep in mind the depth of these investigations usually depends on the level of security clearance required for the role you are applying to within the military.

For instance, public trust positions or positions requiring a security clearance will necessitate a more in-depth background check. This could include a verification of employment, interviews with former employers and coworkers, and even a review of performance evaluations or reasons for leaving a previous job. If you are applying for a position that does not require a security clearance, the background check may be less comprehensive, but will usually still involve a review of your work history.

So in short, be prepared to have any part of your background, including your employment history, be up for review. Therefore, being transparent and forthright about your history is generally the best approach. Providing accurate and complete information ahead of time can also help preempt any delays in processing your application. In the end, routines checks are meant to ensure the safety and efficiency of military operations and personnel, and aren't intended to discourage potential recruits unnecessarily.