Military to civilian terminology
Terminology
Military jargon can be confusing for non-military professionals. Translating your experiences, awards, military schooling, and even position titles can ensure everyone is fully able to understand your military story. Tell your story and give details, using quantifiable information when possible. Consider the audience’s knowledge of the military and think “how can I explain this to a civilian?”
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Leadership roles
Military TerminologyCivilian Terminology
NCOIC, OIC, 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)
Warrant Officer
Technical Manager / Specialist Department Manager
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
Operations Supervisor
Platoon Sergeant
Supervisor / Instructor / Trainer
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Activities, places and people
Military TerminologyCivilian Terminology
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 / corporate office
Subordinates
Employees / co-workers
Service Members
Employees / co-workers / colleagues / personnel
Security Clearance
Security clearance
MILPO, Personal Action Center (PAC)
Personnel office
Regulations
Guidance / policy / instructions
Reconnaissance
Data collection / survey / analysis
TDA/MTOE
Organizational structure / material resource
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Training and education
Military TerminCivilian Terminology
Basic Training
Basic Skills Course
Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
Advanced Skills Course (mention career field)
Primary Leadership Development Course (PLDC)
Basic Leadership and Management Dev. Course
Basic Non-Commissioned Officers Course (BNOC)
Intermediate Leadership & Management Dev. Course
Advanced Non-Commissioned Officers Course (ANOC)
Adv. Leadership and Management Dev. Course
Officer Advanced Course (OAC)
Entry Level Officer Training Course
Combined Arms Staff College
Senior Managerial Leadership School
Command and Staff College
Senior Leaders Program
War College
Executive Leadership School