How do you get your job in the military?

I'm considering joining the military after high school and I've heard you can have different jobs there. How do they assign military jobs to recruits, and do you get to choose what you'll be doing?

The process for determining your job in the military, often referred to as your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS), varies slightly between branches, but generally follows a similar procedure.

First, you should take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) test. This test is used to determine your qualifications for enlistment in the armed forces and can influence what jobs you’ll qualify for. It's a series of tests that covers areas like mathematics, science, word comprehension, and mechanical comprehension.

Then you go through Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) where you’ll have a physical exam and a career counselor will help you understand which MOS options you may be eligible for based on your ASVAB score, vision, color perception, medical history and other factors.

At that point, you have the opportunity to choose from a list of available jobs. Note that some jobs may be limited based on the needs of the military or specific branches. Let your recruiter know about your interests and ask for help narrowing down your options.

Once you’ve chosen, you sign a contract that includes your selected MOS. This contract could be for three to six years of active-duty service, depending on the branch and the job specificity, without counting the training period.

After signing, you transition to Basic Combat Training (commonly known as boot camp). After that, you continue to your Advanced Individual Training (AIT) or a similar program where you'll learn the skills required for your specific job.

Keep in mind that some more specialized positions require further schooling, or even a certain level of education before enlistment (for instance, healthcare professionals usually need to have completed related degrees before they can serve in that capacity).

In conclusion, you do have some control over the type of job you receive in the military. It is determined by a combination of your personal preferences, aptitudes, education, and the military's needs. Remember that the more flexible you can be, the more opportunities may be available to you.