resumes for military personnel

Military to Civilian Resume Example for Veterans [Updated 2024]

Transitioning from a military lifestyle to that of a civilian is far from easy.

According to a Pew Research Center study, 95% of veterans seek employment after serving in the military.

26% of veteran respondents, however, found shifting from the military to the civilian lifestyle to be somewhat difficult.

Coincidentally, one of the biggest struggles for veterans is creating a compelling military to civilian resume that’s going to help them get a job that’s well-paid and enjoyable.

To help solve that problem, though, we wrote this guide. Read on to learn everything you need to know to create a compelling veteran resume, including:

• Military to Civilian Resume Example
• How to Write a Military Veteran Resume (8 Simple Steps)
• Free Military to Civilian Resume Template
• Essential (Free) Job-Search Resources for Veterans

In case you’re looking to brush up on the resume basics, watch the video below.

If you’re ready to get started, though, let’s start by reviewing a well-written military to civilian resume example.

Military to Civilian Resume Example (for Veterans)

Compelling, right? Here’s what the above military to civilian resume example does right: 

• Follows a functional resume format. The functional resume format focuses more on your skills and strengths rather than work experience. It helps convey how your military experience is going to help you perform well in the civilian role you’re applying for.
• Lists the contact information the right way. It includes the applicant’s full name, email, location, phone number, and even a LinkedIn URL while skipping out on a photo.
• Captures the hiring manager’s attention with a resume summary. The summary on top of the military to civilian resume example offers a brief snapshot of the candidate’s career, instantly showing the recruiter their value.
• Focuses on transferable skills instead of work experience. Instead of mentioning military buzzwords that civilians wouldn’t understand in the first place, the resume example instead focuses on how the candidate's experiences helped them develop valuable skills.
• Mentions achievements when possible. Achievements help convince the recruiter that they’re not just any candidate - you’re an overachiever who plays to win.
• Uses bullet points to make the resume easier to skim. The recruiter doesn’t have all day - they have hundreds of other resumes to review just for a single role. Making the resume easy to skim makes it more likely to be read.
• Includes educational history (in brief). The military to civilian resume example describes the candidate’s educational background, which includes taking a leadership course and basic training.
• Makes use of the optional sections. The achievements and interests sections help shed light on the candidate’s personality outside of work, as well.

Now, let’s talk about how YOU can make your resume as impressive as the example above.

How to Write a Military Veteran Resume (8 Easy Steps)

In this section, we’re going to walk you through the 8 steps to creating a powerful military veteran resume, starting with:

#1. Pick a Functional Resume Format

These are the 3 most popular resume formats out there:

• Reverse-chronological . This format focuses on your work history over education or skills.
• Functional . It focuses less on your work background and more on your skills and how they make you a qualified candidate.
• Combination . This format is a mix of the other two formats. It puts equal emphasis on skills and experiences. 

As a military veteran, you’re better off with a functional format .

As you can see above, the resume example focuses more on key strengths instead of just listing out work experiences.

This improves your odds of landing a civilian job for one important reason: 

Most recruiters aren’t really familiar with military lingo.

Your experiences in the military might be super compelling, but chances are, most recruiters won’t understand how these experiences make you a good candidate for the role.

By framing your experiences around your skills, on the other hand, your resume becomes more understandable for a civilian.

Once you’ve decided on the format, you also need to sort out your resume style, layout, font, and more. Here’s what this includes:

• Don’t go over one page . Your resume should be concise and to the point. More often than not, if you’re going over one page, you’re probably including information that isn’t relevant for the role.
• Pick the right font and font size . In terms of size, go for 11-12 pt for body text. For the font, pick something like Ubuntu, Times New Roman, etc. That way your resume will look professional AND stand out at the same time. 
• Use the military-to-civilian resume template . Want to skip the hassle of formatting a resume? Hit the link and pick from one of our free templates! Our templates are easy to use AND look much more compelling than the conventional black-and-white ones.

#2. Include Contact Information

Now that we’ve got the formatting hassle out of the way, let’s talk about resume content.

The first thing in your veteran resume is the contact information section.

Here, you need to include:

• Descriptive title. This should include your title in the military, as well as the title you’re applying for. Something like “Security Officer Seeking a Role as Customer Support Specialist.”
• Phone number.
• Professional email address. Think, [name][lastname]@gmail.com
• Location. City and state are good enough, you don’t need to include an address.
• (Optional) LinkedIn URL. If you have an up-to-date LinkedIn profile, you can include a URL in the contact information section.

And finally, make sure NOT to include a photo in your military to civilian resume. In the US, employers prefer that you don’t include a picture to avoid unconscious bias during the hiring process.

Here’s what your resume contact information section should look like at the end:

Security & Customer Service Professional

[email protected]

416-821-9879

Seattle, US

linkedin.com/in/john.doe

#3. Capture the Hiring Manager’s Attention with a Military Veteran Resume Summary

When reading your resume for the first time, the recruiter will spend roughly 7 seconds skimming it to make sure that you’re qualified for the role.

If the resume catches their attention, they’ll give it a more in-depth look.

If it doesn’t, they’ll simply move on to the next one.

This is where a compelling resume summary can come in handy.

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence “summary” of your past work experience. It helps the recruiter understand your skill-set and whether you’re relevant for the role in a single glance.

Here’s what a convincing military to civilian resume summary looks like:

Dedicated professional with over 9 years of outstanding performance and results in the U.S. Military. Earned three promotions and excelled as a leader. Seeking to apply the skills I gained in the military as a Customer Support Specialist at Company X.

When writing your resume summary, make sure to include the following information:

• Your title in the military and the role you’re applying for.
• Years of experience.
• Top achievements and experiences.

#4. Summarize Your Experiences with a Key Strengths Section

This one’s arguably the most important part of your military to civilian resume.

At the end of the day, the main deciding factor in whether you get invited for an interview or not is if your resume manages to convince the recruiter that you’re capable of doing the job…

And that’s where the key strengths section comes in handy.

To create yours, start by listing out your top strengths as section headers. Then, underneath each header, list your achievements and responsibilities that prove you actually have the relevant skill.

Here’s what this looks like on a resume:

Customer Service

• Promoted within a short period by demonstrating an over-achieving dedication that maximized results for the entire team. 
• Proved internal customer service by relating to all personnel in a professional manner that facilitated the development of a diversified group. 
• Enhanced soldiers’ individual and professional growth, developing them into independent decision-makers.
• Accounted for the safety of equipment valued at over $1.3 million. 
• Secure the personal safety, training, and performance of fifteen U.S. Army soldiers.

Operations and Administration

• Organized schedules for over 45 soldiers. 
• Implemented new routes, resulting in savings in gas time and reduced work time. 
• Prevented over 10 cancellations and negotiated over 20 contract renewals with the local government.

Applying for a Military or Private Security Role? Do This

Now, in case you’re applying for a role that’s somewhat related to your experience in the military (e.g. in private security), then you can simply create a conventional Work Experience section instead of Key Strengths .

If that’s your case, here’s how you should format the section:

• Create a section header called “ Work Experience .”
• Start by listing your most recent role and go backward in time from there.
• For each entry, include your title, company name, dates employed, and 3-5 top achievements.
• For older positions, you can include fewer achievements and responsibilities.

Now, if you want your work experiences to stand out from the rest of the candidates, we recommend you to include achievements over responsibilities.

• Achieved a 99.5% average delivery rate on all assignments, resulting in no losses of materials or assets.
• Conducted deliveries of materials and assets.

The first example shows just how the candidate stands out from other applicants. The 2nd, on the other hand, does not.

#5. Mention Your Education (the Right Way)

On to the next section!

The next step to creating a convincing military to civilian resume is mentioning your educational background .

This is where you mention your higher educational degrees, as well as training (e.g. boot camps) and any personal development courses you’ve taken.

First things first, here’s how you’d go about the formatting part:

• Create a header called “Education”
• Add your latest degree right on top. Then, include older degrees underneath.
• If you have a B.A. or an M.A., you can skip your high school degree altogether.
• You can skip mentioning a GPA. These days, no one cares about your grades.

Here’s how the end result would look like:

B.A. in Communications Boston University 08/2016 - 05/2020

Now, if you don’t have the relevant experience needed for the role you’re applying for, you can use your education section to show off your knowledge or skills.

You can do this by including:

• Any honors you might have earned.
• Exact courses you’ve attended.
• Any other way you’ve excelled during your education.

#6. Include In-Demand Skills (For the Industry You’re Applying for)

Another must-have of a military to civilian resume is the skills section.

This is where you list out all of your hard and soft skills and (optionally) grade them by knowledge level.

The key here, though, is not to simply list out random skills like:

• Critical Thinking
• Microsoft Word

Rather, you want to include the skills relevant to the role . 

E.g. applying for a role in accounting? You should probably mention payroll tax accounting, cost reduction strategies, budgeting and forecasting , and so on.

You wouldn’t want to mention your Adobe Illustrator skills, for example (even if you’re an expert at it).

So, how can you know which skills are essential to your resume, and which ones aren’t?

The best way to understand this is to read the job ad you’re applying for. More often than not, they include an exact list of skills required for the role, and all you have to do is mention them in your resume (as long as you possess the said skills, of course).

#7. Take Advantage of the Optional Resume Sections

If you still have some space on your military veteran resume, you can take advantage of some optional resume sections.

While these sections won’t land you the job on their own, they can definitely help you stand out from other applicants seeking the same role.

Some optional sections you can include are:

• Projects. Any type of personal project you’ve worked on. This can be a local business you started, a side-gig, freelance work, and so on.
• Certifications. Any type of certification you might possess. If you don’t have the experience for the role you’re applying for, certifications can help show the recruiter that what you do have is the right skill-set.
• Volunteering Experience. If you’ve volunteered in the past, you should definitely include it in your resume. Employers love candidates who love to help others (even if there’s no monetary incentive for it).
• Hobbies & Interests. Including hobbies or interests in your resume helps the recruiter see more of your personal side. While your hobbies won’t land you the job, they might help you build rapport with the interviewer.

#8. Make Sure Your Military to Civilian Cover Letter is as Impressive as Your Resume.

At this point, your military veteran resume should be quite compelling…

But you’re not done just yet!

To have both a complete and compelling job application, you need to pair your resume with a cover letter that’s just as good.

Here are our top tips on how to write a quality cover letter :

• Start the cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly. Sure, you could go with the default “Dear Sir or Madam,” but mentioning the hiring manager’s name shows that you’ve done your research and really care about working at the company.
• In your introduction, mention the most important parts of your background. E.g. years of experience, key achievements, top skills, and why you’re applying for the job in question.
• In the body section of your cover letter, expand on whatever you mentioned in the introduction. This is where you can also explain how the experiences mentioned in your resume make you a good candidate for the role.
• Conclude the cover letter with a call to action . E.g. “Looking forward to hearing more from you!” or “I’d love to discuss how I can help Company X as a Support Specialist over a call or an interview.”

Want to learn more? Check out our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Essential Job-Search Resources for Veterans

There are a lot of free job-search resources for veterans on the internet - everything from dedicated job boards to free tools, programs, and more.

Here’s a comprehensive list of some of the very best resources:

Veteran Job-Search Resources

• Job board that helps you find federal organizations that prioritize hiring veterans over other candidates.
• Lots of quality resources to help you transition into civilian life.
• If you’re not sure what kind of career you want to focus on, you can use this website to discover different occupations and learn what they’re about.
• Website for finding veteran job fairs in your area.
• Free career consulting and job search help for veterans.
• American Corporate Partners matches you with a free, year-long mentor to help you build your career.
• LinkedIn offers its Premium program to veterans for free for a year. You can use the platform to learn new skills, kick-start your career, as well as find and apply for jobs.
• A website dedicated to helping veterans transition into a civilian lifestyle. You can use it to find jobs, discover career events, attend job fairs, and more.
• Job board for US federal jobs. While it’s not specifically made for veterans, the US government prioritizes hiring veterans over other candidates.
• Job board for veteran-friendly roles and companies.
• Job board for roles in the private security industry.
• Another veteran-only job board.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all you need to know to create a strong military veteran resume!

Before you go, though, let’s do a quick recap of the key learning points we just covered:

• For a military to civilian resume, use a functional resume format to show off your skills instead of work history.
• Use a “Key Strengths” section to explain how your military experience distills into valuable skills for a civilian role.
• Don’t include every skill under the sun on your resume. Instead, pick the ones relevant for the role you’re applying for.
• Take advantage of the optional resume sections to show the recruiter that you’re an individual and not just a resume.
• Finally, make sure that your cover letter is just as impressive as your resume by following the tips we mentioned above.

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• Career Blog

Military to Civilian Resume: Example, Template, and Pro Tips

When transitioning from the military to the civilian workforce, one of the most critical documents you need is a well-crafted resume. A military to civilian resume allows you to showcase your unique skills, experience, and qualifications that make you a valuable asset to any employer.

Creating a military to civilian resume can be a challenging task, especially if you have spent several years in the military. With this in mind, this article aims to provide insight, guidance, and tips on how to write an effective military to civilian resume.

In this article, we will discuss the importance of a military to civilian resume and provide examples and templates to help you get started. We will also offer professional tips and advice to ensure your resume stands out in a competitive job market.

Whether you are a transitioning veteran or a military spouse seeking to enter the civilian workforce, this article is for you. Keep reading to learn how to translate your military experience into a compelling civilian resume.

Understanding the Transition

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a challenging experience that requires careful planning and preparation. Military personnel face unique challenges when they return to civilian life, such as finding new employment opportunities, adapting to a new work environment, and adjusting to civilian culture.

One of the most crucial aspects of transitioning to civilian life is crafting a well-designed resume. This document serves as a critical tool for military personnel in their job search process. It needs to showcase skills, education, and experience in the most attractive way possible.

However, military and civilian resumes differ considerably in their structure and content. Military resumes tend to be more detailed and include military-specific terminology that may not make sense to civilians. Hence, it’s vital to create a tailored resume that can help recruiters and hiring managers understand the transferable skills and experience one possesses.

Another challenge that military personnel face is understanding what non-military workplaces would look like. Employers in the private sector may have different expectations and work cultures. While military service is highly respected and valued, the language, rank structure, and acronyms used within it differ from non-military workplaces.

Therefore, it is essential to create a well-crafted resume that highlights transferable skills and soft skills. Retirees or recent military veterans must be aware of their unique value proposition and the qualities that they can bring to a prospective employer.

Transitioning from military to civilian life is a significant life-changing event that takes time and effort. For military personnel, crafting a well-designed resume is the key to securing a civilian job role. Knowing the unique challenges that they will face during this transition will better equip them to succeed in their job search. It is vital that military personnel understand the differences between a military and civilian resume to tailor it effectively based on the skills learned in their service.

Identifying Transferable Skills

Transferable skills are abilities and knowledge that can be applied in various scenarios, regardless of the industry, role or job function. They are typically acquired through previous work experience, education or life experiences. The majority of transferable skills are soft skills, such as communication, leadership, problem-solving, and time management but can also include hard skills, such as technical proficiency.

Identifying transferable skills is an essential step for those transitioning from military to civilian careers. To determine transferable skills, examine both the technical and soft skills that you employed in your previous role. Start by reflecting on your daily work routine, listing your duties and responsibilities, and identify the skills you utilized. Then explore how these skills could be applied in a new industry or position.

To identify your transferable skills, start by following these steps:

Evaluate your military experience: Focus on the skills you applied in your military role, and assess how they could potentially be applied outside the military sector.

Analyze job descriptions: Review job descriptions in civilian roles you are interested in and compare them to your current military job requirements. Identify any overlaps or similarities in skills.

Consider your achievements: Think about your accomplishments in your previous military role, what skills did you use to accomplish them, and how could you apply these skills in a new role?

Conduct informational interviews: Speak with individuals who work in the industry or role you are interested in, ask about their job duties, and what skills they feel are critical to their success.

Some examples of transferable skills include:

Leadership: Managing a team, supervising colleagues or coordinating projects.

Communication: Effectively conveying information, negotiating or managing conflicts.

Problem-Solving: Analyzing data, creating strategies, and making complex decisions.

Time Management: Prioritizing tasks, managing schedules, and meeting deadlines.

Interpersonal skills: Cooperating with colleagues, demonstrating empathy and active listening.

Technical proficiency: Programming, information technology, and other specialized skills.

Transferable skills are abilities that can apply to multiple industries, roles, or job functions. Identifying your transferable skills is a critical step in your military to civilian career transition. By evaluating your military, analyzing job descriptions, considering your accomplishments, and conducting informational interviews, you will develop a clear understanding of the transferable skills required to succeed in a new role. Ensure that you highlight your transferable skills in your resume, cover letter, and during interviews to increase your chances of a successful military to civilian career transition.

Military to Civilian Resume Example

If you’re a veteran looking to make a transition into the civilian workforce, crafting a compelling resume is one of the most important steps you can take. However, making the transition can be daunting, as the terminology and priorities in the military differ from those in the private sector. Below is a step-by-step guide to creating a military to civilian resume, along with tips on how to use military-friendly language and an example resume to inspire your own.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating a Military to Civilian Resume

Translate your military experience: Start by translating your military experience into civilian terminology. Focus on your key job functions and accomplishments that demonstrate your leadership, discipline, and problem-solving skills.

Use simple language: Avoid using military jargon or acronyms that could be confusing to someone outside of the military. Instead, use simple, clear language that anyone can understand.

Highlight transferable skills: When listing your experience, be sure to highlight transferable skills that will be relevant to the civilian job you’re applying for. For example, if you have experience managing a team, that could translate to a civilian management position.

Quantify your achievements: Use data and numbers to quantify your achievements wherever possible. For example, if you were responsible for managing inventory, include information on how much inventory you managed and how you improved the process.

Tailor your resume: Tailor your resume to the job you’re applying for by emphasizing the skills and experience that are most relevant to the position. Use the job description as a guide to help you choose which skills to highlight.

Military-Friendly Language to Use in the Resume

• Use action verbs that demonstrate leadership and initiative (e.g. managed, led, supervised, initiated, organized)
• Mention relevant training and certifications, such as leadership training, security clearances, or technical certifications
• Use terminology that is familiar to civilians (e.g. “team” instead of “squad,” “budget” instead of “funding allocation”)
• Emphasize the results of your work and the impact you had on your team or organization

Example of a Military to Civilian Resume

Below is an example of a military to civilian resume that demonstrates the tips outlined above. This is just one possible format; be sure to tailor your resume to your specific experience and the job you’re applying for.

Name:  John Smith Contact Information:  (555) 555-5555 | johnsmith.

Military to Civilian Resume Template

When transitioning from military to civilian life, creating a resume that can effectively showcase your skills and experience can be challenging. That’s why we have created a comprehensive military to civilian resume template to guide you through the process.

Overview of the Template

Our military to civilian resume template is designed to highlight your accomplishments and transferable skills in a clear and concise manner. It is formatted to be easily scannable by hiring managers and ATS systems. The template includes the following sections:

• Contact Information
• Objective Statement
• Summary of Qualifications
• Professional Experience

Tips for Customizing the Template to Fit Individual Needs

While our military to civilian resume template is a great starting point, it’s important to customize the template to fit your individual needs. Here are a few tips for personalizing your resume:

• Use keywords and phrases that are relevant to the job you’re applying for
• Quantify your accomplishments whenever possible
• Focus on the skills that are transferable to the civilian workforce
• Use clear and concise language
• Keep your resume to one or two pages

Section-by-Section Breakdown of the Template

This section includes your name, phone number, email address, and physical address. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date and professional. Avoid using nicknames or unprofessional email addresses.

Your objective statement should be tailored to the job you’re applying for. It should be a brief statement that highlights your qualifications and career goals.

This section is where you can showcase your skill set and achievements. Focus on transferable skills that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. Use bullet points to make this section easy to read.

In this section, you will list your work experience in reverse chronological order. Include the job title, company name, location, and dates of employment. This is also where you can showcase your accomplishments and how they relate to the job you’re applying for.

List any relevant education and training you have received. Include the school name, degree or certificate earned, and dates of attendance.

Use this section to highlight any additional skills you have that are relevant to the job you’re applying for. This can include language proficiency, technical skills, or certifications.

By following our military to civilian resume template and customizing it to fit your individual needs, you can create a strong resume that highlights your skills and experience. Don’t forget to have someone proofread your resume for errors and clarity before submitting it to potential employers.

Pro Tips for Military to Civilian Resumes

Transitioning from military service to a civilian job can be challenging. Military veterans, especially those who have spent many years in service, often have difficulty converting their military experience into civilian terms. One of the most important steps in this process is creating a military to civilian resume that highlights relevant experience and accomplishments. In this section, we will discuss three pro tips for creating a successful military to civilian resume.

Adding Accomplishments

When creating a resume, it’s important to highlight your accomplishments, not just your job duties. Accomplishments show what you’ve achieved in your roles and how you’ve impacted your organization. In the military, there are many accomplishments that are worth noting, such as awards, medals, and successful missions.

To translate these accomplishments into civilian terms, think about how these achievements benefited your team or organization. Did you save money? Did you improve efficiency? Did you lead a successful project? These are all accomplishments that will impress civilian employers, so be sure to include them on your resume.

Highlighting Leadership Skills

In the military, leadership skills are highly valued and often developed early on in a servicemember’s career. These skills, including the ability to motivate and guide a team, are highly transferable to civilian roles.

When listing your leadership skills on your resume, be sure to highlight specific examples. For instance, if you served as a team leader in a mission, discuss the leadership strategies you employed to ensure the success of your team. It’s also important to emphasize your ability to work well under pressure and make critical decisions in a timely manner.

Emphasizing Relevant Experience

One of the biggest challenges in creating a military to civilian resume is translating military experience into relevant civilian terms. However, it’s essential to highlight your relevant experience to show civilian employers that you have the skills they’re looking for.

To do this, review the job description carefully and highlight the skills and experience that the employer is seeking. Then, review your military experience and think about how it translates to that job description. Focus on key skills that match the job requirements and include them on your resume.

A successful military to civilian resume requires translating military experience in civilian terms, highlighting your accomplishments, highlighting your leadership skills, and emphasizing your relevant experience. By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a winning resume that highlights your unique skills and experience.

Writing Accomplishments

Before diving into how to write strong accomplishments for military personnel, it’s important to define what constitutes an accomplishment. Accomplishments are specific achievements or results that an individual has achieved within a particular role or job. They showcase an individual’s unique contributions, skills, and experience.

When writing accomplishments, it’s crucial to focus on tangible results rather than just listing responsibilities or tasks performed. Begin each accomplishment statement with an active verb and quantify the results whenever possible.

Below are some tips on how to write strong accomplishments:

• Use specific numbers and percentages to illustrate the impact of your actions. This helps to demonstrate the scope and scale of your achievements.

Example: Increased unit efficiency by 25% through implementing new logistics procedures.

• Highlight your individual contributions and leadership skills in team achievements.

Example: Led a team of 10 in successful completion of a high-priority project three weeks ahead of schedule.

• Use action-oriented language to focus on your proactive and results-driven approach.

Example: Initiated and executed a cost-saving measure that resulted in a $50,000 reduction in annual expenditures.

Now, let’s take a look at some examples of accomplishments for military personnel:

Led a platoon of 30 soldiers in combat operations, resulting in zero casualties and successful completion of all mission objectives.

Developed and implemented a safety training program resulting in a decrease in workplace accidents by 50%.

Instrumental in the successful execution of a multinational joint training exercise, increasing overall readiness and strengthening partnerships with allied forces.

Writing strong accomplishments is an integral part of crafting a successful military to civilian resume. By focusing on specific results and using action-oriented language, individuals can effectively showcase their experience and skills to potential employers.

Relevance of Military Service

If you are someone who has served in the military and is now transitioning to civilian employment, then it is important to understand the relevance of military service on a civilian resume. Military service offers a unique set of skills that can be valuable in the civilian workforce. What’s more, it shows dedication, discipline, and a willingness to work hard.

To incorporate military service into your civilian resume, it is typically recommended to take a skills-based approach. This involves highlighting the skills and experiences gained from your military service, and demonstrating how they would be relevant to the position you are applying for. One approach is to use relevant military language and terminology that aligns with your new line of work.

Additionally, it is important to translate military-specific jargon into language that civilians can easily understand. This makes it easier for a hiring manager to clearly see the value of your military experience.

Here are some examples of how to incorporate military service into your resume:

Use relevant military language: For example, if you were trained in the use of weapons as part of your military service, you could use language such as “weapon systems training” or “small arms proficiency” on your resume.

Highlight your experience in leadership: Military service often involves leading teams of people, so it is important to highlight this experience on your resume. Describe specific instances where you took charge and made important decisions.

Show off your dedication and work ethic: Military service is characterized by a sense of duty and responsibility. Highlight your ability to work hard and get things done.

Demonstrate your adaptability: The military requires individuals to be able to adjust to new environments quickly. Highlight your adaptability by demonstrating how you have succeeded in different roles or assignments.

The relevance of military service on a civilian resume cannot be overstated. By taking a skills-based approach and highlighting the valuable experiences and training gained from military service, you can make yourself a strong candidate for a civilian position.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As military personnel transition into civilian life and job search, one of the critical steps is creating a civilian resume. However, military servicemen and women often make common mistakes that can hurt their job search endeavors.

Here are some of the common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Mistake 1: Using military lingo or jargon

One of the most significant mistakes military personnel make when creating a civilian resume is using military jargon and acronyms. Unless the civilian employer has a military background, they may not understand the military language, and it can be off-putting. It’s essential to translate military jargon into terms that the civilian employer can understand.

Mistake 2: Focusing on duties rather than accomplishments

Military personnel often list duties and tasks they performed rather than highlighting their significant accomplishments. It’s essential to show how your skills and experiences transfer to the civilian workforce. Quantify your achievements, and showcase how you contributed to the success of your unit or team.

Mistake 3: Too much information

Military personnel have a whole set of skills, training, and experiences that they have accumulated over the years. It’s tempting to include every piece of information in the resume. But the truth is, not every experience is relevant to the civilian job market. Focus on the skills and experiences that relate to the job you’re applying for.

Mistake 4: Lengthy resumes

A standard militarized resume can range from three to ten pages. However, civilian employers prefer shorter and more concise resumes. A two-page resume should be sufficient to showcase your skills and experience.

Mistake 5: Not tailoring the resume to the job

Job descriptions vary from company to company, and not tailoring your resume to the job can reduce your chances of getting an interview. Read the job description, identify the skills and experiences the employer is looking for, and match them with your qualifications.

To avoid these common mistakes, military personnel can seek assistance from career counselors, veterans support groups, and civilian mentors. These professionals can guide them on translating their military experiences into civilian language, highlighting their accomplishments, and tailoring their resumes to the job description. Creating a civilian resume is a crucial step in military-to-civilian transition, and avoiding these mistakes can increase your chances of landing a job.

Cover Letter Writing for Military to Civilian Resume

When transitioning from military life to civilian employment, having a well-written cover letter is essential to getting noticed by potential employers.

Importance of a Cover Letter

A cover letter serves as your introduction to the hiring manager and is your opportunity to showcase your qualifications and explain why you are the best fit for the job. A well-written cover letter can significantly increase your chances of getting an interview and landing the job.

Tips for Writing an Effective Cover Letter

Research the company – before you start writing your cover letter, take the time to research the company and the job you are applying for. This will help you tailor your cover letter to the specific needs of the employer.

Use the right format – your cover letter should follow a standard business letter format, with your contact information at the top, followed by the date, the employer’s contact information, the salutation, the body of the letter, and a closing.

Highlight your qualifications – focus on your most relevant qualifications and experiences that match the requirements of the job.

Keep it concise – your cover letter should be no more than one page and should quickly and succinctly explain why you are the best candidate.

Edit carefully – take the time to proofread and edit your cover letter for spelling and grammar errors before submitting it to the employer.

Example of a Cover Letter for a Military to Civilian Resume

Dear Hiring Manager,

As a former Army Sergeant with experience in logistics and supply chain management, I am excited to apply for the logistics coordinator position at XYZ Company. In my 8 years of military service, I honed my skills in organization, communication, and problem-solving, which I believe will make me an asset to your team.

During my time in the military, I was responsible for the successful management of a large-scale logistics operation, overseeing the distribution of critical supplies and equipment to multiple units across various locations. I am well-versed in the intricacies of coordinating complex and time-sensitive logistics operations, and I thrive under pressure.

In addition to my military experience, I have also completed a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a focus on supply chain management. My education, coupled with my military experience, has prepared me to hit the ground running in a civilian logistics role.

I am thrilled at the opportunity to bring my skills, experience, and work ethic to XYZ Company and am confident that I would be a valuable asset to your team. Thank you for considering my application.

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3 Military To Civilian Resume Examples That Work in 2024

Military To Civilian Resume

Elegant military to civilian resume, clean military to civilian resume.

• Military To Civilian Resume Writing 101

Transitioning from a role in the military to a civilian job can feel challenging, but it’s a great opportunity to leverage your unique skill set . Not many people have the kind of experience and ability to work under pressure that you do—employers will value that if you present the information the right way.

Your ability to adapt and convey critical information makes you a valuable candidate in any civilian setting. From managing radio frequencies to leading strategic communications, you possess a diverse skill set . You just need to put it down on paper!

Luckily, our resume and cover letter writing guides have helped many military personnel excel in the job market. Check out our military-to-civilian resume examples and land the job you want.

or download as PDF

Related resume examples

• Office manager
• Operations manager
• Office administrator

What Matters Most: Your Experience & Transferable Skills

Your transition from military personnel to a civilian role is an opportunity to showcase a unique set of skills that can benefit any company. For technical roles, delve into the nitty-gritty of your expertise. The exact scope will depend on what your role in the military was.

For instance, as a military communications specialist, highlight software proficiency, familiarity with military-grade communication systems, or any specialized training in data analysis. You can also highlight your ability to perform under stressful conditions and strict time restraints.

Don’t shy away from detailing your grasp on project management, leadership, and adaptability— soft skills that transcend roles. Whether decoding encrypted messages or managing teams, emphasize the transferable skills that are crucial to most jobs.

9 best military to civilian skills

• Data Analysis
• Project Management 
• Microsoft Office
• Social Media
• Google Workspace
• Quality Assurance

Sample military to civilian work experience bullet points

In the military, your resume is a narrative of your achievements—a compelling story of impact and success. That’s exactly what recruiters want to see. Focus on outcomes that show your impact more than just your day-to-day work. 

Highlight achievements like getting a higher ROI on social media PR campaigns or successfully leading a team. It all depends on the job you’re applying to. Add some data to showcase not just what you did but exactly how successful you were. 

Make sure to emphasize how the job skills and work experiences you amassed during your service transfer into civilian roles so the hiring manager knows why they should pick you over someone else. 

Here are a few examples:

• Executed employee satisfaction surveys, driving improvements that led to a 19% increase in overall satisfaction with internal communication efforts
• Elevated social media presence by implementing targeted PR strategies, resulting in a 43% increase in engagement and a 27% growth in online followership
• Spearheaded supply chain optimization initiatives that resulted in a 12% reduction in overall operational costs
• Coordinated with cross-functional teams on Jive to enhance transportation planning, which resulted in a 47% improvement in on-time deliveries

Top 5 Tips for Your Military to Civilian Resume

• Showcase the leadership skills you gained in the military, emphasizing flexibility and resilience. This shows recruiters your capacity to thrive in high-pressure environments, which is necessary in many jobs.
• Some thoughtfully picked-out data always makes your accomplishments pop. Whether it’s improving communication efficiency or increasing the efficiency of warehouse operations, don’t be afraid to quantify your past achievements.
• When discussing military projects, break down the technical jargon and translate it into language understandable to civilians. Focus on the outcomes and skills you acquired so that your projects resonate with employers outside of a military setting.
• In your hobbies and interests section, emphasize activities that are relevant to the job you’re seeking. Whether it’s leading a team in a sports league or organizing events, highlight work experience that shows you’ve got plenty of useful skills.
• Recruiters often use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to scan resumes, but you can beat them at their own game if you tailor your application to each job. Use civilian-friendly terminology, add relevant keywords, and format your resume for easy readability. 

It’s totally up to you, but a tailored resume objective can be impactful. Specify the job and company, emphasizing the adaptability and leadership skills you gained in the military. Highlight your enthusiasm for transitioning into civilian work and learning new skills. 

Identify transferable skills by reviewing the job description and aligning them with your military experiences. For instance, if you’re applying to work as an administrative assistant, highlight your background in reporting.

Absolutely. Include relevant military certifications, such as leadership training or specialized technical qualifications. Translate them into civilian terms if you need to.

• • Led a team of 8 in deploying cutting-edge network security solutions for large corporate clients, increasing overall security compliance by 25%
• • Implemented a strategic data recovery plan for high-risk clients, effectively reducing data loss incidents by 40% annually
• • Facilitated the migration of 500+ workstations to a cloud-based platform ahead of schedule, enhancing operational efficiency
• • Developed a custom automation script that streamlined system updates for clients, saving an average of 15 hours of manual work per project
• • Negotiated with vendors for better pricing on enterprise software, resulting in a cost saving of $20,000 per annum
• • Conducted regular IT audits, identifying and addressing potential vulnerabilities, leading to the prevention of potential data breaches
• • Oversaw the successful integration of a new ERP system across the company, improving data management and resource planning
• • Initiated a company-wide cybersecurity training program, enhancing staff awareness of best practices in digital security
• • Coordinated the upgrade of network infrastructure which supported a 50% increase in company data traffic
• • Authored a monthly IT performance report highlighting key tech stats, leading to better informed strategic decisions
• • Managed a cross-functional project team resulting in the timely resolution of critical IT incidents, reducing downtime by 30%
• • Maintained a 99.9% network uptime by monitoring and optimizing network performance across the organization
• • Implemented robust network security policies which decreased vulnerability to attacks by 20%
• • Assisted in the rollout of a new VoIP communication system, which reduced company telecommunication costs by 15%
• • Provided technical support and training for staff, significantly improving company-wide tech literacy rates

5 Military Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your military resume must prominently display your security clearance level. It's a valuable asset that proves trustworthiness and responsibility. Demonstrate your experience with military technologies relevant to the job. This shows adaptability and technical proficiency.

All resume examples in this guide

Traditional

Resume Guide

Resume Format Tips

Resume Experience

Skills on Resume

Education & Certifications

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

One challenge you may encounter as a military veteran is effectively translating your military experience into civilian terms that resonate with potential employers. Our comprehensive guide can provide you with tailored strategies and examples to bridge this gap, aligning your unique skills with the needs of the civilian job market.

• Get inspired from our military resume samples with industry-leading skills, certifications, and more.
• Show how you can impact the organization with your resume summary and experience.
• Introducing your unique military expertise with a focus on tangible results and achievements.

If the military resume isn't the right one for you, take a look at other related guides we have:

• Federal Resume Example
• Regulatory Affairs Resume Example
• Policy Analyst Resume Example
• Canvasser Resume Example
• Grant Writer Resume Example
• Government Resume Example

Enhancing your military resume: format and layout tips

Four popular formatting rules (and an additional tip) are here to optimize your military resume:

• Listing experience in reverse chronological order - start with your most recent job experiences. This layout helps recruiters see your career progression and emphasizes your most relevant roles.
• Including contact details in the header - make sure your contact information is easily accessible at the top of your resume. In the header, you might also include a professional photo.
• Aligning your expertise with the job requirements - this involves adding essential sections such as experience, skills, and education that match the job you're applying for.
• Curating your expertise on a single page - if your experience spans over a decade, a two-page resume is also acceptable.

Bonus tip: Ensure your military resume is in PDF format when submitting. This format maintains the integrity of images, icons, and layout, making your resume easier to share.

Finally, concerning your resume format and the Applicant Tracker System (ATS):

• Use simple yet modern fonts like Rubik, Lato, Montserrat, etc.
• All serif and sans-serif fonts are friendly to ATS systems. Avoid script fonts that look like handwriting, however.
• Fonts such as Ariel and Times New Roman are suitable, though commonly used.
• Both single and double-column resumes can perform well with the ATS.

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Always remember that your military certifications can be quantified across different resume sections, like your experience, summary, or objective. For example, you could include concise details within the expertise bullets of how the specific certificate has improved your on-the-job performance.

Traditional sections, appreciated by recruiters, for your military resume:

• Clear and concise header with relevant links and contact details
• Summary or objective with precise snapshot of our career highlights and why you're a suitable candidate for the military role
• Experience that goes into the nuts and bolts of your professional qualifications and success
• Skills section(-s) for more in-depth talent-alignment between job keywords and your own profile
• Education and certifications sections to further show your commitment for growth in the specific niche

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

• Proven leadership experience and ability to lead teams in high-pressure situations
• Demonstrated excellence in tactical planning, strategy development, and mission execution
• Expertise in handling sensitive information with the utmost discretion and adherence to security protocols
• Strong understanding of military protocols, chain of command, and experience working within a military structure
• Physical fitness and the capacity to meet the rigorous demands of military operations

Essential tips for crafting your military resume experience section

The experience section is indeed the core of your military resume . It's where you present your past and current job roles. But how should you approach this crucial part?

A common error is treating the experience section as merely a list of job duties. Many candidates fall into the trap of detailing what they did without illustrating the impact of their actions.

To effectively write your military resume experience section, consider these guidelines:

• Emphasize your achievements, supported by concrete metrics such as percentages, revenue increases, or customer satisfaction rates;
• Avoid using generic buzzwords like communication, hard work, or leadership. Instead, demonstrate how these skills added value in your previous roles;
• Begin each bullet point with a strong action verb, followed by a skill, and then the result of your actions;
• Tailor your resume for each job application by selecting the most relevant experiences, responsibilities, and successes.

We have an array of resume examples that illustrate how to optimally curate your military resume experience section.

• Directed a team of 12 in executing strategic patrol operations resulting in a 30% reduction in security incidents within our area of responsibility.
• Implemented an advanced technology update for communication systems, resulting in enhanced coordination and a 40% decrease in equipment failure rate.
• Designed and supervised rigorous training programs for new recruits, improving overall unit readiness and performance metrics by 25%.
• Conducted over 150 reconnaissance and surveillance missions, providing critical intelligence that informed the strategic decisions of high-level commanders.
• Oversaw the integration of unmanned aerial systems into the unit’s operations, which improved the surveillance coverage by 50% and reduced risk to personnel.
• Managed a budget of $2 million for equipment procurement and maintenance, ensuring optimal resource allocation and zero over-expenditure.
• Led an armored vehicle crew through 100+ successful missions with a keen focus on safety procedures and threat assessment, minimizing risks during high-tension scenarios.
• Mentored and evaluated 20+ personnel, developing goal-oriented training plans that enhanced their tactical skills and operational performance.
• Organized cross-functional training with allied military units, which resulted in improved collaboration and mission success rates for multinational operations.
• Efficiently processed and analyzed over 500 intelligence reports, creating actionable strategies that preemptively neutralized threats and safeguarded troops.
• Developed a comprehensive intelligence-sharing network with regional partners that bolstered collective security efforts and reduced intelligence gaps by 40%.
• Spearheaded the modernization of the unit's intelligence database systems, which shortened report processing time by 20% and improved data reliability.
• Orchestrated the logistics for deploying 400 personnel and equipment to overseas locations, ensuring 100% accountability and zero loss of assets.
• Served as a primary advisor for sustainment operations, optimizing supply chain management and reducing logistical costs by 15% without compromising operational readiness.
• Coordinated with multiple service branches to support joint exercises, achieving seamless integration of logistical support across diverse military units.
• Piloted multiple aircraft models in a variety of weather conditions, accumulating over 1000 flight hours and maintaining an impeccable safety record.
• Developed and executed air support plans that provided critical cover for ground operations, enhancing the offensive capabilities of the unit in hostile environments.
• Trained 30+ new pilots, emphasizing aerial combat techniques and effective mission planning, which resulted in these pilots exceeding the squadron's average readiness scores.
• Deployed as part of an elite Special Operations unit, contributing to high-risk missions that disrupted enemy supply chains and reduced hostile activities by 60%.
• Initiated a comprehensive cyber-security protocol for the unit, vastly improving the security of communication channels and sensitive data.
• Led a joint humanitarian operation that provided medical and disaster relief assistance to over 10,000 affected civilians, earning a commendation for outstanding service and leadership.
• Supervised the operation and maintenance of complex radar and electronic warfare systems, ensuring peak performance during critical surveillance operations.
• Led an initiative to train personnel in advanced signal processing techniques, which improved detection capabilities and reduced false alarm rates by 20%.
• Collaborated with engineering teams to upgrade electronic defense infrastructure, greatly enhancing the operational lifespan and effectiveness of the systems.

Quantifying impact on your resume

• Quantify your leadership experience by stating the number of personnel you've managed or trained.
• Highlight the size of the budget you were responsible for to demonstrate financial acumen.
• Mention the number of missions or operations you've planned and executed to indicate organizational skills.
• Specify the percentage of efficiency improvement or cost reduction you achieved in your role.
• Detail the number of countries or regions you operated in to show your adaptability.
• Include the quantities of equipment or assets you were accountable for to showcase responsibility.
• State the number of reports or briefings you've produced to underline your communication skills.
• List the measurable improvements in performance indicators under your command or guidance.

Action verbs for your military resume

No relevant experience - what to feature instead

Suppose you're new to the job market or considering a switch in industry or niche. In such cases, it's common to have limited standard professional experience . However, this isn't a cause for concern. You can still craft an impressive military resume by emphasizing other sections, showing why you're a great fit for the role:

• Emphasize your educational background and extracurricular activities to demonstrate your industry knowledge;
• Replace the typical experience section with internships or temporary jobs where you've gained relevant skills and expertise;
• Highlight your unique skill set, encompassing both technological and personal abilities;
• Showcase transferable skills acquired throughout your life and work experiences so far.

Recommended reads:

• How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)
• How to List Expected Graduation Date on Your Resume

If you failed to obtain one of the certificates, as listed in the requirements, but decide to include it on your resume, make sure to include a note somewhere that you have the "relevant training, but are planning to re-take the exams". Support this statement with the actual date you're planning to be re-examined. Always be honest on your resume.

Featuring your hard skills and soft skills on your military resume

The skills section of your military resume needs to your various capabilities that align with the job requirements. List hard skills (or technical skills) to showcase to potential employers that you're perfectly apt at dealing with technological innovations and niche software. Meanwhile, your soft skills need to detail how you'd thrive within your new, potential environment with personal skills (e.g. resilience, negotiation, organization, etc.) Your military resume skills section needs to include both types of skills to promote how you're both technical and cultural fit. Here's how to create your bespoke military skills section to help you stand out:

• Focus on skill requirements that are listed toward the top of the job advert.
• Include niche skills that you've worked hard to obtain.
• Select specific soft skills that match the company (or the department) culture.
• Cover some of the basic job requirements by including important skills for the military role - ones you haven't been able to list through the rest of your resume.

Get inspired with our military sample skill list to list some of the most prominent hard and soft skills across the field.

Top skills for your military resume:

Weapons Handling

Tactical Planning

Physical Fitness

Maintenance and Repair

Communication Systems

Survival Training

Logistics Management

Intelligence Analysis

Problem-Solving

Adaptability

Stress Management

Decision Making

Strong Work Ethic

Effective Communication

Situational Awareness

The more time and effort you've put into obtaining the relevant certificate, the closer to the top it should be listed. This is especially important for more senior roles and if the company you're applying for is more forward-facing.

What are the best certificates to add to your military resume + how to curate your education section

The education and certification resume sections are the underdogs of your military resume.

They showcase to recruiters that you've invested plenty of time to gain valuable and specific know-how, vital for growth.

As far as the resume education section is concerned:

• Detail only advanced education, specifying the institution and timeframe.
• Indicate your forthcoming graduation date if you're in the midst of your studies.
• Consider omitting degrees that don't align with the job's requirements.
• Offer a description of your academic journey if it underscores your notable achievements.

When curating your degrees and certificates on your military resume:

• Select only accreditation that matters to the role
• Niche knowledge that could help you stand out as a candidate (as is within the past few years), should be listed towards the top of your resume
• Include any pertinent data for credibility (e.g. institute name, graduation dates, etc.)
• Irrelevant degrees and certifications shouldn't make it on your resume. Those include your high school diploma and any specializations that have nothing to do with the technical or soft skills that are required for the job

As a final note, if you feel tempted to exclude your education or certification from your resume, don't.

These two sections could help you have a better competitive edge over other candidates - hinting that your professional journey in the industry may be for a longer period of time.

Recruiters find all of these military credentials impressive:

The top 5 certifications for your military resume:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) - (ISC)²
• Project Management Professional (PMP) - Project Management Institute (PMI)
• Certified Protection Professional (CPP) - ASIS International
• Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) Civil Engineer Certifications - U.S. Air Force
• Defense Acquisition University (DAU) Certifications - U.S. Department of Defense

Highlight any significant extracurricular activities that demonstrate valuable skills or leadership.

• Perfecting the Education Section on Your Resume

Professional summary or objective for your military resume

military candidates sometimes get confused between the difference of a resume summary and a resume objective.

Which one should you be using?

Remember that the:

• Resume objective has more to do with your dreams and goals for your career. Within it, you have the opportunity to showcase to recruiters why your application is an important one and, at the same time, help them imagine what your impact on the role, team, and company would be.
• Resume summary should recount key achievements, tailored for the role, through your career. Allowing recruiters to quickly scan and understand the breadth of your military expertise.

The resume objectives are always an excellent choice for candidates starting off their career, while the resume summary is more fitting for experienced candidates.

No matter if you chose a summary or objective, get some extra inspiration from real-world professional military resumes:

Resume summaries for a military job

• Decorated U.S. Army Captain with over 12 years of experience leading high-stakes operations in challenging environments. Expert in strategic planning and cross-functional team leadership. Notable career achievement includes orchestrating the evacuation of a besieged embassy, ensuring zero casualties under volatile conditions.
• Seasoned Marine Corps Officer with 15 years of proven experience in logistical coordination, personnel management, and process improvement. Spearheaded the development of critical supply chain streamlined strategies, cutting operational costs by 25% without compromising mission-critical capabilities.
• Highly skilled cybersecurity professional eager to apply a decade of experience in IT infrastructure protection to safeguard national security interests. Advanced proficiency in network defense strategies, with a significant triumph in detecting and mitigating a complex, multi-vector cyber-attack against government systems.
• Driven financial analyst, transitioning from a successful 8-year tenure with major Wall Street firms to bolster fiscal efficiency within defense budgeting. Exceptional track record in portfolio management and predictive analytics, resulting in a 20% reduction in risk exposure for multimillion-dollar investment accounts.
• Aspiring to utilize my leadership skills and unwavering commitment to national service, cultivated through 4 years as Student Government President and extensive volunteer work, to embolden team dynamics and drive mission success in a challenging military environment.
• With a passion for technology and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, my objective is to leverage my software development skills, in-depth understanding of machine learning, and collaborative spirit to contribute to the cutting-edge advancements in military defense systems.

Taking your military resume to the next level with these four additional resume sections

Your military resume can feature a variety of skills (both hard and soft) in diverse sections . Choose those that align best with the job requirements and reflect your suitability for the company culture.

Consider these four additional resume sections recommended by our experts:

• Languages - State any languages you are proficient in and your level of proficiency. This demonstrates your commitment to communication and potential for international growth.
• Projects - Highlight up to three significant projects you've completed outside of work, showcasing skill development. Include a link to your project portfolio in the military resume header, if applicable.
• My Time - How you allocate your time outside work can indicate your organizational skills and cultural fit within the company.
• Volunteering - Detail causes you're passionate about, roles you've held, and achievements in volunteering. Such experiences likely have honed a range of soft skills crucial for your dream job.

Key takeaways

• The logic of your resume presentation should follow your career highlights and alignment with the role;
• Curate information within different sections (e.g. summary, experience, etc.) that helps highlight your strengths;
• Exclude from your resume irrelevant experience items - that way you'd ensure it stays no longer than two pages and is easy to read;
• Dedicate space within the summary, experience, and/or achievements to highlight precisely why you're the best candidate for the role via your previous success;
• Both your technical and people capabilities should also play a crucial role in building up your military application. Prove your skill set in various resume sections.

Looking to build your own Military resume?

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Military to Civilian Resume Examples

Demilitarize your resume using our helpful tips

Military to Civilian Resume Samples

1. Candidate seeking security guard position

Army Veteran seeking to improve the safety of Township residents by providing security services to the Township Apartments.

• Oversaw 30 military police personnel
• Actively participated in the training of new personnel, including safety procedures
• Divided time between video surveillance and foot patrols
• Provided armed response to reported incidences and unusual activity

2. Candidate seeking position as restaurant manager

Passionate about food service and veteran-owned businesses, with the skills to manage supply logistics and day-to-day operations.

• Graduated with Honors
• Gained customer service skills as a retail associate that grew into communication and leadership skills during military service
• Responsible for supplying chain logistics
• Oversaw a group of 15 personnel

Military to Civilian Resume Vocabulary & Writing Tips

It is important to “demilitarize” the wording and vocabulary of your resume. Unless he or she has also served in the military,  your civilian employer is unlikely to understand terms such as E-7, SNCO, or PCSing.  When describing your duties,  avoid military jargon and explain them in “layman’s terms.”

Read the job listing or description for the position to which you will apply.  Look for keywords, and include them in your resume.  This is important because many companies employ software that pre-screens resumes for key terms before it ever reaches a human reader.

The keywords you use will differ depending on the job you are seeking. Below, we’ve included a number of terms that are well suited to a wide array of resumes.

When you are finished writing your resume, proofread it carefully for any errors.

Words to Use

• Disciplined
• Fast learner
• Communication
• Group dynamic
• Veteran-owned

Action Verbs

• Communicate

Military to Civilian Resume Tips and Ideas

Transfering from military to civilian life is a challenge familiar to all veterans. Creating your resume and  applying for civilian jobs  is a battle you don’t have to fight alone. Our expert tips and professional resume examples can help you get started.

Your  military experience has endowed you with numerous skills vital to the civilian workforce.  Your resume should demonstrate these skills in an appealing format that is understandable to civilian employers.

Functional or combination formats are recommended

When designing your military to civilian resume, consider:

• Section Headings
• Organization
• Readability
• Contact information
• Resume summary
• Work history
• Language proficiency
• Certifications
• Honors and awards

Resume Length

Functional or  combination resumes are recommended for a military to civilian transition , as these focus on your skills rather than your work history.

Begin your resume with a summary statement. This should be designed to  catch your employer’s eye by citing skills he or she is looking for.

Next, build a skills or qualifications summary. This summary should demonstrate your skills in action. Don’t just state that you have a skill—show how you used it.  Quantify your skills  if possible. For example, rather than just listing “leadership,” quantify it by stating “directed a squadron of 30 personnel under combat conditions.”

Especially if you are using a combination resume format,  list your work history and education in reverse chronological order.

You can  utilize a standard resume design  such as that demonstrated by most  online resume templates . Your resume should be clean and neat in appearance. Begin each section with a clear heading. You can set your headings apart using bold or italic fonts.  Select a standard font  such as Arial at 11- or 12-point font. Leave plenty of white space around the text.

In the United States,  it is not necessary to include your photo with your resume.  If applying to a job while residing in another country, research common practices in that land. For example, you  may be expected to submit a photo in some European countries .

Sections of a Military to Civilian Resume

Most resumes include the following sections:

Contact information will allow your employer to get in touch with you. The summary, skills, and history will give him or her a clear picture of your abilities.

Depending on your circumstances and the job to which you are applying, you may also include:

The  ability to speak languages other than English can be a real asset in a diverse workplace  or community. You may have attained various certifications during your service, such as CPR training or heavy equipment operation. These can also be valuable in civilian employment.

Finally, while your skills show what you can do,  any honors or awards you have received  show how well you can do it. You can even include pull-quotes from past reviews.

Your resume should be  one to two pages in length , sized to fit 8.5 by 11-inch letter paper. If printing your resume, select a high quality, heavy weight resume paper.

Military to Civilian Resume Section Headings

Your skills and experience in the military can translate into just what your civilian employer needs . It is your job to tell them about your work and qualifications in a way that they will understand.

Skills are one of the most important aspects  of your military to civilian resume. You will need to  “translate” the language you use into that which can be easily understood by civilians.  For example, you can demonstrate how you solved a problem under pressure without delving into the intricacies of military procedure.

What skills should you include? There may be many  hard or technical skills , such as machine operation, computer programming, logistics, and the like. Also think about  soft skills , including leadership ability, communication, and organization.

Remember that  your employer is looking to hire someone that can solve a particular problem.  Focus your skillset on qualities that will help you be that person. This may entail omitting irrelevant skills. For example, your marksmanship may be important if you are applying for a position as an armed security guard or as an instructor at a shooting range, but it is irrelevant if you are applying to an office job.

Work experience

A long military career may have endowed you with enough work experience to fill a biographical novel. For the sake of your resume, however, you’ll want to keep it brief.  List only the last 10 to 12 years of experience , as this is considered the most relevant. Use your work descriptions to highlight skills that may transfer to your new job.

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Related Professions

Military  Are you seeking to advance your military career? Put your resume through our resume boot camp, complete with expert advice and resume samples. Reviewed Updated on December 28, 2023 Military 

Military Personnel Specialist Resume Samples

A Military Personnel Specialist serves the U.S. Navy’s enlisted personnel in ways similar to those of career counselors and human resources professionals . A well-drafted Military Personnel Specialist Resume mentions the following duties and responsibilities – providing information and counseling related to rights, benefits, occupations, job training, and requirements for promotions; maintaining and entering data into enlisted service records , issuing identification cards, counseling, and interviewing personnel on various matters, administering and ordering and processing advancements examinations, recommending personnel assignments; and writing official letters and reports.

The following skills are required for this job role – an aptitude for English and skills in business administration; the ability to follow orders, the ability to communicate well with a variety of personnel, and multitasking skills. A relevant degree is commonplace among job applicants.

• Resume Samples
• Military Personnel Specialist

Military Personnel Specialist Resume

Objective : As a Military Personnel Specialist, responsible for Workingenough to sharpen skills I currently have as well as learn new ones, Maintaining good economic standing as well as fund current school expenses.

Skills : Microsoft Office; Emilpo, Pernet, Iperms, Citrix, Topmis II, Etopmis, Rapids 7.2 And Other DoD Systems.

Description :

• Successfully completed Technical Training at Keesler Air Force Base, MS.
• Gained by first duty station at Beale Air Force Base, CA.
• Reported to all Unit Commanders on Enlisted and Officer Evaluations.
• Made sure all military members accounted for were eligible for promotions and qualified for special military missions.
• Adversed Actions Reporting: Wrote summary reports for Unit Commanders, impacting punishment decisions.
• Coordinated with Military Legal Office to ensure all legal actions were executed.
• Maintained records for Commanders to consider during the legal process.

Headline : As a Military Personnel Specialist, responsible for managing and providing technical advice and guidance regarding a wide variety of military Human Resources (HR) programs, Analyzing significant military HR management issues and problems, and developing recommendations and alternative solutions.

Skills : HR, Military Skills.

• Used Oracle and PDS computer systems to maintain accurate military personnel records.
• Selected by the Unit Commander to be shipped to Deliberate and Crisis Action Planning and Execution Segments (DCAPES) Training at Keesler Air Force Base, MS.
• Supervised and counseled 6 personnel on military career matters Provided personnel pay service support to over 2300 personnel Answered telephone and .
• Recommended for promotion.
• Updated board information, SGLI Form 8286, number of dependents and advised service member of need for updated official photo, physical, etc.
• Maintained rifles, machine guns, mortars and hand grenades.
• Insured that all day to day operations were completed in a safe and timely manner.

Objective : To obtain a challenging Military Personnel Specialist position, utilizing my professional training, great customer service, and communication skills, with an organization that will allow professional growth.

Skills : MS Office, Social Media, Leadership Training, Leadership, Property Management, Sales, Administrative Support, Data Entry, Advising, Customer Service.

• Received, screened and prepared incoming records for review with newly assigned service members.
• Processed and completed records review.
• Prepared a temporary record when necessary, e.g., reviewed and updated records.
• Prepared forms as necessary; DA Form 201, Enlisted Record Brief (ERB), DD Form 93, Officer Record Brief (ORB), etc.
• Requested replacement for missing documents, placing copy of request in MPRJ.
• During interviewed with service member, explained the removal of documents and verified and/or corrected documentation of schooling making necessary additions.
• Assisted soldiers with personal request such as statements of service and reconciliation of military records.

Objective : Highly qualified Military Personnel Specialist with experience in the industry. Enjoy creative problem solving and getting exposure on multiple projects, and I would excel in the collaborative environment on which your company prides itself.

Skills : Microsoft Office, Leadership Training, Organizational, Analytical & Research.

• Logged and filed classified documents.
• Trained and instructed subordinates and supported units on munitions explosive safety.
• Oversaw the expenditure of thousands of dollars in operational funds for munitions assembly.
• Managed receipt, storage, and issue of ammunition processes.
• Patrolled areas and allowed restricted area access for authorized personnel.
• Supervised operation and organizational maintenance of munitions systems and specialized equipment.
• Completed multiple fire prevention safety training exercises.

Objective : As a Military Personnel Specialist, responsible for Providing guidance, interpretations, training, and/or briefings on current and proposed policies, Planning and drafting military HR management policies and guides to meet the needs and goals of the SRPC.

Skills : Microsoft Office, Military Skills.

• United States Prepares and processes recommendations for awards and decorations and arranges for the awards ceremonies.
• Pre-pared, updated, and coordinated requests for evaluations, including responding to evaluation inquiries.
• Prepared and monitored requests for promotions and arranges for a promotion ceremony, including promotion declinations, reconsideration for promotions, and arranging for reduction and removal boards for soldiers on local promotion standing lists.
• Prepared and monitored requests for reductions, transfers, and discharges.
• Prepared and monitors requests for identification cards and tags, leaves, and passes, line of duty determination, MILLER data, and information management, orders for temporary duty and travel, personnel processing, personnel Security Clearances, training and reassignment, retention, military and special pay programs, personnel accounting and strength management, transition processing, legal, meal cards, training soldier support file, and unit administration.
• Employed evaluates personnel qualifications for a special assignment.
• Prepared and processed requests for transfer or reassignment.

Objective : A position as a Military Personnel Specialist at a medical facility where I can apply my knowledge from my nursing education and training to provide the highest level of care for clients in a safe and compassionate manner.

Skills : Supervising Skills, Reviewing Skills.

• Prepared and reviewed reports.
• Consulted with supervisors for corrective steps to be taken where health violations or deficiencies exist.
• Ensured that programs are being carried out and that control measures are adequate.
• Conducted internal inspections to ensure coverage of activities assigned to bioenvironmental engineering.
• Provided guidance and supervision in selecting protective equipment, and monitors its use in the industrial environment.
• Supervised and performed bioenvironmental engineering functions.
• Reviewed plans, worked orders, contracted, and specifications for compliance with environmental and occupational health directives.

Summary : Military Personnel Specialist Professional with 20 years of comprehensive experience managing all aspects of human resources, pay, staffing, employee relations, mail clerk, information dissemination, travel arrangements, reviewing of correspondence, and training and development in customer service and professional work environment.

Skills : Customer Service, Reporting System Management Skills.

• Provided support for a variety of automated systems including DEERS and the Family support programs.
• Coordinated actions, system problems, and updates with Head Quarters.
• Reviewed and kept current on applicable regulatory guidelines for various entitlements and Family support programs.
• Applied rules and regulations pertaining to the Defense Enrollment Reporting System.
• Authority to approve or disapprove the issuance of ID and privilege cards.
• Ensure requirements for classified materials were followed according to rules and regulations.
• Maintained control and suspense files.

Summary : To obtain a challenging Military Personnel Specialist position that incorporates management, human resources as well as communications into the position responsibilities.

Skills : Program Management, MS Office.

• Responsible for in and out the processing of soldiers, the accountability and maintenance of Military Personnel Files (MPF), and other records.
• Provided administrative customer service to Soldiers and other authorized customers.
• Assisted soldiers in updating DD93 and SGLI information Conduct desk-side briefings with soldiers Distribute identification cards for soldiers, retiree's and eligible family members Consult with customers of all ranks while rendering proper courtesy.
• Maintained communication with battalion S1's via email to update soldiers' records.
• Assisted with SRP Soldier Readiness Program to prepare soldiers for deployment.
• Assisted with providing or arranging community services as necessary making referrals to WIC, social work service, footlocker, etc.
• Conducted interviews to obtain accurate and pertinent information to make assessments of presenting problems and to clarify entitlement and eligibility for assistance.

Objective : Seasoned Veteran with extensive experience in human resources concepts and practices. Widely experienced in developing new and modified techniques for delivering outstanding customer service. Worked extensively with outside agencies in order to resolve personnel issues.

Skills : Planning Skills, Membership.

• Assisted in developing the new methods of assisting customers by suggesting that initial requests go through the human resources professionals at the lower level.
• Ensured that the professionals were proficient in human resources which ensured that they provided outstanding customer service.
• Assisted personnel with various financial issues.
• Responded to inbound inquiries via telephone and email.
• Served as a member on committees for occupational health, environmental protection, and medical readiness matters.
• Processed centralized and decentralized promotions and reduction actions.
• Proceeded classification and reclassification actions.

Headline : Military Personnel Specialist with 6 years Managing and providing technical advice and guidance regarding the establishment and maintenance of pay accounts, Processing, auditing, and editing of the complex pay actions Researching complex pay complaints and issues.

Skills : Researching Skills, Financial Skills.

• Provided weekly briefings and Administrative support to demobilizing soldiers who were out processing Fort Knox.
• Computed active/inactive time via the information provided on RPAS also known as the Chronological Statement of Retirement Points.
• Prepared, published, and distributed DD Form 214 and Release from Active Duty (REFRAD) orders for soldiers separating from the military in accordance with Army Regulation.
• Coordinated with the Finance Office for disability severance amounts and leave balances.
• Responsible for verification of leave forms (DA Form 31) and authenticated date and time of departure in accordance with Department of the Army procedures.
• Maintained statistical data.
• Prepared orders and requests for orders.

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Israel-Gaza latest: 'Stop it now, Joe' - Biden's wife 'tells president to end war in Gaza'; Israel 'foils assassination plot'

President Joe Biden was overheard telling Muslim community leaders that his wife had told him to "stop" the war in Gaza, according to reports. In Israel, the internal security agency says it has thwarted a plan to assassinate a minister.

Thursday 4 April 2024 16:46, UK

• Israel-Hamas war

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• 'Stop it now, Joe': President Biden's wife reportedly urges him to end war in Gaza
• Shin Bet 'foils plot to assassinate Israeli minister'
• UK breaching international law by arming Israel, Sunak warned
• IDF halts combat leave as fears of escalation with Iran grow
• Israel 'in the dock' over airstrike on aid convoy - ex-general
• Podcast: Will volunteers leave Gaza after aid deaths?
• Watch: Evidence suggests three separate strikes
• Live reporting by James Robinson

An Israeli minister began waving his arms around during a heated meeting with top US officials over Israel's plan for a ground invasion of Rafah, it has been reported.

Ron Dermer, Israel's minister of strategic affairs, was also yelling while defending his country's plan, according to NBC News - the US partner of Sky News - citing two unnamed US officials.

The meeting is reported to have included White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who are said to have kept calm throughout, according to the officials.

NBC reported that, during the meeting, Israeli officials presented their plan to move 1.4 million civilians over several weeks from Rafah to tents that would be set up north of the city.

However, the Israeli proposal did not include plans for addressing sanitation needs or an assessment of how much food or water would be required or where it would come from, the officials said.

They said the Israeli officials had only thought through sourcing for a fraction of the hundreds of thousands of tents that would be needed.

According to NBC's sources, when US officials said they did not see the plan as realistic, Israeli officials erupted, with Mr Dermer one of those to become animated.

Following the publication of the report by NBC, an Israeli official who attended the meeting described the claims as a "a misrepresentation of what occurred in the room. 

"The meeting was constructive and respectful, even during disagreements. There was no yelling at any point," the Israeli source said.

Jill Biden has been privately urging her husband to end the war between Israel and Hamas and the crisis in Gaza, according to reports.

While speaking with a group of Muslim community leaders at the White House on Tuesday, the president allegedly said that the first lady had told him to "stop it, stop it now, Joe".

The comments were published by our US partner network NBC News and first reported in the New York Times.

Joe Biden reportedly made the remark after a doctor who had been treating injured people in Gaza explained to him that his wife didn't want him to participate in the meeting, according to Salima Suswell, the founder of the Black Muslim Leadership Council, who was also present.

The president replied he could relate because of his own wife's views on the conflict.

Ms Suswell told NBC News that she noted down the president's statements because she was moved to hear that the first lady was so concerned about the war in Gaza. 

For context: In the picture below - taken in Ukraine in 2022 - the first lady can be seen paying tribute to the work of volunteers for World Central Kitchen. As we've been reporting, the seven aid workers killed in an Israeli airstrike in Gaza this week also worked for the charity.

The IDF have told Israelis that there have been no changes in guidelines for home front preparedness, amid concerns of a possible escalation violence after the killing of Iranian generals in Damascus this week drew threats of retaliation.

"There is no need to buy generators, gather food and withdraw money from ATMs," Israeli military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari posted on X. 

"As we have done until today, we will immediately update any change, should there be one, in an official and orderly manner."

Earlier, Israel halted combat leave for troops due to worries of an increase in aggression from Iran.

Sir Alan Duncan, the former Foreign Office minister, has been placed under investigation by the Conservative Party after criticising his colleagues for backing Israel, Sky News understands.

The senior Tory had called for three Conservatives to face consequences for their views, in an interview with LBC.

Sky News understands that the Conservative Party has now placed Sir Alan under investigation.

There has been no progress in the ceasefire talks despite Hamas showing "flexibility", according to a senior member of the group.

Osama Hamdan said Benjamin Netanyahu was placing obstacles preventing both parties from reaching an agreement, and that he is "not interested" in releasing Israeli hostages.

"The occupation government is still evading, and negotiations are stuck in a vicious circle", he told a press conference in Beirut.

Efforts by Qatar and Egypt, backed by the US, have so far proved fruitless, as Hamas is pushing for an end to the offensive in Gaza, while Israel prefers a prisoners-for-hostage release deal, and is refusing to commit to ending its military campaign. 

Israeli soldiers have been pictured operating near the Israel-Gaza border as the conflict continues to rage on.

Smoke can be seen billowing from Gaza during the IDF tank operations.

Israel's internal security agency says it has foiled a plot to assassinate a government minister.

The Shin Bet said 14 people were arrested in connection with the alleged plot to kill national security minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.

According to The Times of Israel, Arab-Israelis and Palestinians were among those arrested.

The Shin Bet said those taken into custody also planned to attack Israel's main airport, a sports stadium, army bases and government buildings.

The statements did not provide any evidence, and indicated the plot was in its early stages.

Three of the suspects, from east Jerusalem, had started learning how to make explosives, according to Shin Bet, adding that others, from southern Israel and the occupied West Bank, had been in contact with Hamas in Gaza.

Mr Ben-Gvir is a provocative figure in Israel, known for his fiery rhetoric and hard stance on the Palestinians.

He is the leader of the right-wing Otzma Yehudit (or 'Jewish Power') party, one of seven political parties in Benjamin Netanyahu's ruling coalition.

World Central Kitchen founder Jose Andres has blamed Israel for "directly" attacking the charity’s vehicles and killing seven aid workers in the Gaza Strip. 

In an emotional interview, the Spanish-American celebrity chef said the Israeli airstrikes that hit the aid convoy were not "an unfortunate mistake" but a "direct attack on clearly marked vehicles whose movements were known by everybody in the IDF".

The IDF said the strike did not intend to target aid workers and that it would carry out an investigation into the incident.

Israel has hinted that its probe into the airstrike that killed seven aid workers in Gaza could take weeks. 

"In the coming weeks, as the findings become clear, we will be transparent and share the results with the public," Israeli government spokesperson Raquela Karamson said in a briefing. 

Israel previously said the strikes were "a mistake that followed a misidentification". 

By Ben van der Merwe, digital investigations journalist

During the first months of the war in Gaza, deaths were counted through a network of computers connecting morgues across the territory.

It was a system that, in the years beforehand, had won the trust of human rights groups, the UN and the World Health Organisation.

But amid repeated Israeli attacks on hospitals and chronic fuel shortages, this system has now effectively collapsed.

Of the eight major hospitals responsible for collating morgue data, just three are still providing information to the health ministry.

As a result, the morgue monitoring system is now only capturing a small fraction of deaths across the territory.

Read the full Sky News analysis...

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