My son (19) has completed high school and is looking at the Army (active). We have been to see the local recruiter several times. Scored a 79 on the apptitude test. Currently considering MOS options.

As a father, I see the real character development benefits but would prefer an MOS selection with low combat risks. Also would like a job that provides good tech skills in civilian roles. Deployment is assumed, but a support / base role helps my Dad concerns.

Some questions:
1. Is a 79 the great score the recruiter says it is?
2. Any MOS suggestions?
3. Don't really trust the recruiter, but still want to hear all he has to say. Anything to look for or avoid?
4. Any suggestions on contract negotiations?
5. Recruiter says 4 year active is minimum ... is that true?

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks.

Its great to see a father and son working together on this. Reckon all those 'ARMY STRONG' commercials actually work huh?

As I didn't serve in the Army, I would have to defer to those in here that did. We have more than a few that can answer your Army specific questions such as MOS. Myself, I came in on an open contract which meant thay would stick me in where they needed me, and this they did. I was sent to a communication electronics school, while the majority of my boot platoon was sent to infantry.

4 years active duty is the minimum unless one takes the Reserve option. Recommend you investigate that option as well.

As for the contract? The biggist thing about the contract, is that hardly anyone ever actually reads the darn thing, so take the time to read it before you sign it. Ask if you can take it home with you and study it, bring back the questions to have the recruiter provide you with answers. If they say no, find out why.

Recruiters do have quotas to make. Cut and dried. Recruiters are trained to carefully word options presented. Recruiters are trained to not make promises they can't keep. I'm not saying recruiters are not trustworthy, one just has to know how to gets answers out of them during the process. If you want a support type role that offers specific job/trade qualifications and experience that you want to use after your service, then state this and stick to it. Most recruiters will do thier best to get you into the job you are seeking. Jobs of this nature can be varied:
Aviation support: jet engine mechanics, avionics, radar techs, hydralic mechs, airframes mechanic, flight line crews, EOD, crash fire rescue, suppply. These are but a few of aviation supporting roles that are generally not combat related. They can however be close to the front lines at times. All of the above can translate to a job in the civilian world with follow on certifications education.

Army Divisions; supply, communications, motor transport, artillery? Armor, tank engine mechanic, construction engineer, heavy equipment operator....the list is endless.

Contract negotiation? Listen to the recruiter and you can soon tell where the Army is hurting for bodies. Ask him about signup bonuses, which jobs rate them, and do those that do, fit in with your stated goals. If bonuses aren't part of the equation, consider rank options as part of the negotiation. I have seen E-3 awarded upon completion of boot camp. Rank equals pay. If one can get E-3 while all the rest are getting E1 go for it.

http://www.usmilitary.com/armyenlistedoccupations.html

https://secure.military.com/leads/Recruiting/Army_Recru...C=ggl_rec_armydvd.kw

Try some of these and I am sure you will find something to your satisfaction.