How do you convert your military skills to civilian skills?

SSG(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 01:00:56 -0500

Some people hire someone to convert their skills. Some people make something up. Some people use the SMART document. What resources did you use when you transitioned out of the military? I heard one office paid $450.00 to get all of his jobs skills converted to civilian bullet descriptions...?

Response by SFC Mark Merino made Nov 8 at 2014 1:07 AM

SFC Mark Merino — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 01:07:05 -0500

AARTS transcripts are free.

Response by PO1 John Pokrzywa made Nov 8 at 2014 1:31 AM

PO1 John Pokrzywa — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 01:31:12 -0500

The Smart transcript gives a little info, but it seems you run a risk, because they are based on generic concepts of your job, not necessarily what you actually did.
The other thing you risk, especially if you've been in more than one tour, is making your résumé too long, thanks to the flowing descriptions.
I could be wrong, but it's becoming apparent to me that formatting your resume is almost as important as content, anyway. It has to be quick, easy to read, and give the impression you would be a decent fit for the job with just a quick skim. A page or two if you can. Apparently longer ones often give people the tendency to simply move to the next, easier to read résumé.
I hate to say too, there's some bias out there too, so unless you're looking for defense contract work, seems best to tone down things so companies won't assume you're going to be abrasive at work.
Anyway I'm still learning and seeking employment myself, so I'll also watch this thread with interest for tips too.

Response by Cpl Ray Fernandez made Nov 8 at 2014 2:38 AM

Cpl Ray Fernandez — Sat, 08 Nov 2014 02:38:20 -0500

There are other ways to do this without the SMART Transcript especially if you don't want to or have already completed your higher education pursuits. Many jobs have Dept of Labor counterparts. For example my MOS ground radio repairman, I was able to transfer my hours worked into an apprenticeship as a radio mechanic using the Dept of Labor. Look at the wide range of skills that you have and see what might qualify for different industries. You might be a journeyman in an industry that may drive up your earning potential without you realizing it.

Response by LTC Ed Ross made Jul 27 at 2015 5:40 PM

LTC Ed Ross — Mon, 27 Jul 2015 17:40:01 -0400

Here's a great site that helps do it for you. http://www.careerinfonet.org/moc/

Military Transition - America's Career InfoNet

The Military to Civilian Occupation Translator helps service members match military skills and experience to civilian occupations.

Response by SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA made Sep 25 at 2016 4:41 PM

SPC Elijah J. Henry, MBA — Sun, 25 Sep 2016 16:41:44 -0400

Your6usa.com is currently developing a comprehensive solution to this problem. In the meantime, http://www.onetonline.org/crosswalk/MOC can offer some pointers in converting MOS's to related civilian jobs.

Military Crosswalk Search

Select a branch:Air Force (AFSC)Army (MOS)Coast Guard (Ratings)Marine Corps (MOS)Navy (Ratings)Examples: 0963, radio chief

Response by Maj Andrew Appleton made Feb 26 at 2017 5:24 PM

Maj Andrew Appleton — Sun, 26 Feb 2017 17:24:15 -0500

Michael - check this new military-crosswalk tool I created for the military community. It allows you to pick your current military occupation and take the civilian equivalent. Currently I charge $10, but if you or someone else would like to take a test let me know and I will send code for a free test. Would appreciate your feedback. https://workready360.myshopify.com/collections/military-civilian

Military-Civilian

Over 1,400 military occupational assessments matching civilian occupation. These tests are for those looking to transitioninto a civilian career matching your

Response by SSgt Boyd Welch made Feb 27 at 2017 9:12 AM

SSgt Boyd Welch — Mon, 27 Feb 2017 09:12:01 -0500

Here are some links that may help with translating your skills.

https://www.vets.gov/employment/job-seekers/skills-translator

https://www.careerinfonet.org/moc/

http://www.taonline.com/mosdot

Veterans Employment Center: Vets.gov

Veterans Employment Center