How does working part time as a 46S (National Guard) work?

SPC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 02:20:15 -0400

I have just enlisted as 46s (Public Affairs Mass Communication Specialist) and will be shipping this May, and I am curious as to how 46s soldiers can maintain a civilian career and work in the national guard under this MOS.

This MOS involves video, photography, multimedia.. and i've seen/heard many videos about it having a lot of traveling. So i'm curious as to how this works.

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Apr 12 at 2021 3:31 AM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 03:31:58 -0400

First of all: Welcome and congratulations!!! You are in the BEST MOS IN THE ARMY!!!!

It’s easy to have a career and still do National Guard. I have a full-time job and ask for military leave. They have to give it to you. If the are struggling with letting you take time off there is an ESGR office that helps to support soldiers in this area. Usually your command drafts an employer letter stating the days you will need off if it is during your work times.

I generally have one weekend during the month and two weeks of annual training (AT). We also do split-training. This is when we have missions that happen on days other than drill weekend. It can be another weekend or during the week. We try to get the two weeks of AT in one shot but sometimes we split it up to cover different unit’s trainings and other missions.

The traveling is generally covering the other units. Where they go, we go. I have been to Singapore, Hawaii, around the state, Romania, Canada. Other members of my unit have been to Mongolia, Nepal, Thailand, Bangladesh. It is still only two weeks.

Mainly, you will just have to keep your employer informed of the days that occur during your work hours. Hopefully, they will be supportive. If not, reach out to your command and let them know.
Hope this helps!
Feel free to contact me again anytime.