It can be challenging interpreting military experience but several resources can be used to assist in translating military experience into civilian experience. Below you will find resources that can help in understanding military experience and position titles.
The Department of Defense (DOD) Transition Assistance Program
Common Military to Civilian Translations
| Military Translation | Civilian Translation |
|---|---|
| NCOIC, Watch Captain, Petty Officer of the Watch | Supervisor, Manager, Coordinator |
| Commander, Chief | Division Head, Director, Senior Manager |
| Executive Officer (XO) | Deputy Director, Assistant Manager |
| Action Officer (AO) | Analyst (or Senior Analyst if applicable) |
| TDY/TAD | Business travel |
| PCS | Relocation |
| OER/NCOER | Performance Appraisal |
| MOS/MOC | Career Field |
| Commanded | Supervised, Directed |
| Battalion, Unit, Platoon | Organization, Agency, Department |
| Mission | Responsibility, Task, Objective, Job |
| Combat/War | Hazardous Conditions, Conflict |
| Headquarters | Headquarters, Co-workers Colleagues, Personnel, Individuals |
| Security Clearance, Military Personnel Office (MILPO) Personnel Action Center (PAC) | Security Clearance, Personnel Office |
| Regulations | Guidance, Policy, Instructions |
| Reconnaissance | Data Collection, Survey, Analysis |
| TDA/MTOE | Organizational Structure, Material resources, Manpower |
| Senior NCOs | First-Line Supervisor |
| Sergeant Major | Senior Advisor |
| First Sergeant | Personnel Supervisor |
| Squad Leader | Team Leader/Team Chief |
| Supply Sergeant | Supply Manager/Logistics Manager |
| Operations NCO, Platoon Sergeant | Operations Supervisor, Supervisor/Instructor/Trainer |
Military Crosswalk Search
