Interior electricians (12R MOS) possess a comprehensive understanding of the principles of electricity.
Soldiers with a 12R MOS are safety conscious and understand local rules and regulations while they work with up to 600 volts of electrical power.
As interior electricians gain experience, they move to a supervisory position and begin to design electrical layouts themselves.
Requirements and Qualifications of 12R MOS
The general requirements of the 12R MOS are the same for all service members who wish to join the Army.
The requirements include a high school diploma or its equivalent.
Candidates must pass a physical and not have a criminal history or abuse drugs or alcohol.
Members must complete the 10 weeks of Army basic training.
Also, the ASVAB score necessary for this MOS is a 93 in the Electronics (EL) section.
The recruit must also have normal color vision.
Furthermore, having an interest in science, math, and electricity is helpful.
Another critical requirement for this profession includes an aptitude for using hand tools and physical work.
It is also worth noting that not being afraid of working in small spaces is vital because interior electricians often must get into some tight areas to work.
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12R MOS Training and Career Path
After completion of 10 weeks of basic training, service members will continue with seven weeks of advanced individual (AIT) training in this field.
Advanced training is partially in-class direct instruction.
However, the rest of the time in advanced training is spent with hands-on learning.
Through the course of advanced training, interior electricians learn the fundamentals of electrical work, as well as troubleshooting skills for electrical circuits.
Furthermore, service members learn techniques for wiring switches, boxes, and outlets.
Lastly, safety procedures are an essential element of this training.
Working Conditions for a 12R MOS
Interior electricians travel to different worksites to do their job.
The Army rates the physical demands of this job as ‘Moderate.’
Often the workspace is cramped, and electricians go long periods either standing or kneeling in dust or debris.
The work can be dangerous, which is why advanced training involves a tremendous amount of safety training.
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Pay and Benefits
The pay for a 12R MOS consists of the base pay that is linked to a soldier’s rank and the time in service.
Insignia | Pay Grade | Rank | Abbreviation | Minimum Monthly Pay |
---|---|---|---|---|
E-1 +4 months | Private | PVT | $1,917.60 | |
E-2 | Private Second Class | PV2 | $2,149.20 | |
E-3 | Private First Class | PFC | $2,259.90 | |
E-4 | Specialist | SPC | $2,503.50 | |
E-4 | Corporal | CPL | $2,503.50 | |
E-5 | Sergeant | SGT | $2,730.30 | |
E-6 | Staff Sergeant | SSG | $2,980.50 | |
E-7 | Sergeant First Class | SFC | $3,445.80 | |
E-8 | Master Sergeant | MSG | $4,957.20 | |
E-8 | First Sergeant | 1SG | $4,957.20 | |
E-9 | Sergeant Major | SGM | $6,055.50 | |
E-9 | Command Sergeant Major | CSM | $6,055.50 | |
E-9 | Sergeant Major of the Army | SMA | $6,055.50 |
Also, there is additional pay above base pay that includes any eligible allowances, such as housing and food.
Furthermore, pay may include special pay, if any, based on the assignment.
Duty Stations
Those serving in the Army as an MOS 12R can expect to be potentially based at one of the following duty stations:
Inside the Continental US (CONUS)
- Eglin AFB, FL
- Fort Belvoir, VA
- Fort Campbell, KY
- Fort Carson, CO
- Fort Cavazos, TX
- Fort Drum, NY
- Fort Johnson, LA
- Fort Knox, KY
- Fort Leavenworth, KS
- Fort Liberty, NC
- Fort Moore, GA
- Fort Stewart, GA
Outside the Continental US (OCONUS)
- Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba
- USAG Bavaria, Germany
- USAG Hawaii
12R MOS Job Details
In general, an interior electrician installs transformers, junction boxes, and breakers.
The 12R MOS requires the ability to read electrical plans and orders to determine needs and the layout of wires.
Also, an interior electrician will inspect power distribution systems and evaluate and fix faulty equipment.
The duties for a 12R MOS depend on the skill level of the MOS.
MOSC 12R1O
The MOSC 12R1O installs and handles maintenance for interior electrical systems.
These electrical systems in this skill level are up to 600 volts.
Also, at this skill level, personnel are responsible for understanding the blueprints and specifications necessary to carry out electrical plans.
Personnel service electrical boxes and panels and install sheathed cable and conduit.
Also, testing equipment and ensuring circuits are in good condition are a necessary skill level.
MOSC 12R2O
For the skill level of MOSC 12R2O, personnel is responsible for supervising the installation and maintenance of electrical systems.
Also, the skill level requires the ability to coordinate construction planning and advising on electrical construction.
Furthermore, the use of equipment to find problems and do repairs is essential.
Job Reviews
Many reviews noted this career offered excellent benefits and pay.
Also, many noted the value of learning discipline in both the Army and as an Interior Electrician.
Furthermore, those who maintained self-discipline at work and worked hard seem to have a more positive outlook of this career.
Some noted cons included the struggle to find a balance between work and life, which is commonly noted with many careers in the military.
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Civilian Career Opportunities
The 12R MOS participates in the Army PaYS program (Partnership for Youth Success).
The PaYS program helps soldiers after their time in the Army by providing opportunities for soldiers to interview with corporations and agencies.
Service members in this specialty often go into electrical work as a civilian.
Electricians typically make $60,240, but the wage can go as high as $102,300.
This field is expected to grow by 6 percent over the next few years, which is somewhat faster than average.
Other career areas include electrical work in the commercial or transportation industries, but the job prospects in these two areas are below average, which means they are competitive.
However, another field to consider is Occupational Health and Safety Technician.
Safety technicians make an average of $57,970, but the job growth is estimated at 13%, which is much faster than average.
Conclusion
A career in the Army as an Interior Electrician is both rewarding and physically demanding.
Candidates must show an aptitude for electrical work and attend both basic training and an advanced training course.
The 12R MOS has advancements available in the field. For instance, as you gain skills, your level goes up to include supervisory tasks and planning.
The pay is based on both rank and time in service.
Also, the skills gained as an electrician in the Army carry over well to the civilian world as there are many opportunities as an electrician.
References:
https://www.armypays.com/INDEX.html
https://www.careeronestop.org/
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