U.S. Marine Corps Careers

Since 1775, the United States Marine Corps has stood ready to fight and win. From the Revolution to the World Wars, Marines proved their strength in battle across the globe. In the 21st century, Marines continue to adapt to new threats. But they stay true to their values and their mission. The United States Marine Corps is made of elite warriors trained to fight and win. Marines are ready to deploy at a moment's notice. They train for missions on land and at sea. And they are experts in expeditionary and amphibious operations. Their strength comes from teamwork. Infantry, aviation, ground, and cyber forces work together as one unit. To enlist as a Marine, you must: - Have a high school diploma or GED - Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident - Be between the age of 17 and 28 - Pass a criminal background check and have no felony convictions Because of the increased responsibility, becoming a Marine Officer requires meeting higher qualifications, you must: - Have a four-year college degree at the time of commissioning - Be a U.S. citizen - Be at least 20 years old (discuss eligibility with an Officer Selection Officer) - Have strong moral character and leadership potential - Pass a criminal background check with no felony convictions - Meet physical and medical fitness standards ALL NEW RECRUITS MUST: Pass The Initial Strength Test, or IST, to demonstrate their physical fitness. The IST consists of pull-ups or push-ups, plank pose, and a 1.5-mile timed run. ENLISTED OPPORTUNITIES: Air Element: - AE: Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting - AG: Air Crew - AN: Air Control/Navigation and UAS Ground Element: - CE: Combat Support - CK: Fire Direction/Control Specialist - HZ: Reconnaissance - MG: Marine Guard - UH: Infantry Logistics Element: - AF: Aviation Mechanic - AJ: Aviation Support Systems and Ordnance - BA: Aviation Electronics Technician - BY/QY: Electronics Maintenance - CJ: Logistics - CO: Utilities Technician - CP: General Engineering - CX: Vehicle Mechanic - MA: Machinist - MT: Motor Transport Operator - PR: Parachute Rigger - UJ: Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) - UT: Mility Police & Corrections Command Element: - CB: Administrative & Data Specialist - CC: Accounting & Legal - CH: Combat Imagery & Multimedia Operations - DB: Information & Communications Technology - DD: Intel & Planning - DG/QQ: Cyber &Crypto Operations ENLISTED BENEFIT TAGS When Marine Recruiters speak with young men and women about the prospect of becoming United States Marines, they use Enlisted Benefit Tags to find where the needs of the individual align with the needs of the Corps. - Pride of Belonging - Professional Development & Opportunities - Challenge - Financial Security, Advancements, & Benefits - Leadership & Management Skills - Self-Reliance, Self-Direction, & Self-Discipline - Educational Opportunities - Travel & Adventure - Physical Fitness - Courage, Poise & Self-Confidence - Technical Skills