Translate Military Experience into a Job-Winning Resume

Resources for Translation of Skills for Civilian Employers
While you may be comfortable “speaking military,” recruiters and hiring managers are more likely to understand and respond to a résumé that uses clear, civilian-friendly language.

• O-Net Online: Use the “Crosswalk” tool to match your MOS to civilian job codes
• Military Job Skills and Industry Search: Identifies civilian jobs based on your military experience.
• CareerOneStop: Offers guides and tables to convert military terms.

Omit Irrelevant Information: Include only the skills and experiences most relevant to the position. A focused résumé makes it easier for employers to recognize your strengths.

 Here are some examples of terms you can use in your military to civilian resume:

• Replace acronyms (i.e. MOS), with plain English (i.e. job field) and replace leadership titles (i. Sergeant, Commander, Chief) with Director, Manager, or Supervisor
• Replace regulations with policy or instructions
• Soldiers should be called staff or employees
• Basic Training or Boot Camp: Basic Skills Course

Example: Translating Military Experience to Civilian Language

Before (military-focused): Senior enlisted Army leader with over 10 years of experience in infantry

operations, including weapons systems and armored vehicles.

 After (civilian-focused résumé example):

U.S. Army (Global Operations Organization) — Killeen, TX        January 20XX – December 20XX

Operations Manager

• Managed and developed a 40-person team supporting a 500-member organization
  • Oversaw inventory control and accountability for 1,500 assets valued at $20M
  • Ensured operational readiness through planning, evaluation, and compliance

Key Transferable Skills: Leadership, performance management, operations, logistics coordination, strategic planning, and resource oversight.

 

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