Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431)

Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialists (MOS 0431) prepare supplies and equipment for departure.

Embarkment is the process of loading a passenger ship or airplane with military personnel, supplies, and/or equipment.

Logistics/Embarkation Specialists (MOS 0431) plan and carry out plans for force deployment as people and goods are moved across the skies, land, and sea.

Education, Qualifications, and Training

marine logistics mos — Marine logistics (Field 04) provides training on handling all sizes of cargo, including heavy supplies and equipment. Image: Military Sealift Command

Military branches almost operate like their own separate cities with a lot of behind the scenes going on that people tend to forget about.

For example, it would be very difficult to produce effective and reliable military transportation if it was not for an Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431).

Learn more about the required education, qualifications, and training needed to qualify for MOS 0431.

Related Article: How To Join The US Marine Corps

Education

Are you interested in joining the U.S. Marines?

The first step is to reach out to a local Marine Corps job recruiter and go over all the requirements.

Marines are expected to have a high school diploma or GED.

Secondly, all new recruits must complete the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB).

The series of tests helps the Marine Corps find out what Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) is most suitable to your skill sets.

In order to qualify for Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431) you must score General Technical (GT): 100 or higher on the ASVAB.

Qualifications

Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialists (MOS 0431) are required to be U.S. citizens, like every other Military Occupational Specialty.

Secondly, you must be eligible for secret security clearance.

The clearance is granted by the Department of Defense and involves a thorough investigation into your criminal history, personal finances, and previous alcohol or drug use.

The MOS is open to both new recruits and those requesting a lateral move within the U.S. Marines.

Sergeants making a lateral move must complete the same courses at Camp Johnson/Camp Lejeune.

Training

Once you meet all the education and qualification requirements you can begin focusing on training.

The last hurdle to becoming an Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431) is basic training.

Basic training, or boot camp, is the place where those that struggle to meet the physical or mental requirements of the Marine Corps fade out.

If you survive basic training than you will advance to specific training for MOS 0431.

New recruits must complete the Basic Logistics/Embarkation Specialist Course.

Additionally, recruits are required to complete the Logistics Operations School and Marine Corps Combat Service Support School.

The training takes place in North Carolina at Camp Johnson/Camp Lejeune.

What does an Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist Do?

0431 mos marines — Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialists are skilled in loading aircraft and ships. Image: Wikimedia Commons

An Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431) prepares supplies and equipment for embarkation.

Logistics/Embarkation Specialists are trained on Force Deployment Planning and Execution (FDP&E) as well as Time-Phased Force Deployment Data (TPFDD).

The objective is to support the movement of military personnel, supplies, and equipment via all modes of military transportation.

Logistics/Embarkation Specialists (MOS 0431) handle commercial and military assets at all levels, including unit, Marine Air-Ground Task Force (MAGTF), and joint operations.

Related Article: 13 Pros And Cons Of Joining The Marines

Preparing for MOS 0431 Logistics/Embarkation Specialist

Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialists learn how to use Automated Information Systems (AIS) which are used by the Defense Transportation System (DTS).

The DTS uses AIS to account, track, and interface movement data with load-planning programs.

Specialists will also receive on-the-job training on how to prepare aircraft and ships for loading based on organizational requirements.

Soldiers are trained how to assist with the preparation, planning, and execution of strategic mobility plans.

Understanding Marine Corps Logistics

The Marine Corps has a specified definition of what all is involved in military logistics.

Logistics is the science of planning and carrying out the movement and maintenance of forces, according to the Marines.

It includes the “design, development, acquisition, storage, movement, distribution, maintenance, evacuation, and disposition of material.”

While logistics are performed by a wide variety of Military Occupational Specialties, MOS 0431 is considered one of the few that spends their entire work hours focusing on it.

Field 04 of the Marines is reserved for logistics including embarkation, logistics, landing support, and air delivery.

What does an Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist make?

marine embarkation specialist — You will receive steady pay and benefits while serving the Marine Corps. Image: MCRD Parris Island

An Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist is not paid on his or her MOS.

Instead, the Marines (like every other military branch) pays based on military rank and years of service.

Pay Grade	Rank	Abbreviation	2023 Minimum Monthly Pay
E-1 +4 months	Private	Pvt	$1,917.60
E-2	Private First Class	PFC	$2,149.20
E-3	Lance Corporal	LCpl	$2,259.90
E-4	Corporal	Cpl	$2,503.50
E-5	Sergeant	Sgt	$2,730.30
E-6	Staff Sergeant	SSgt	$2,980.50
E-7	Gunnery Sergeant	GySgt	$3,3445.80
E-8	Master Sergeant	MSgt	$4,957.20
E-8	First Sergeant	1stSgt	$4,957.20
E-9	Master Gunnery Sergeant	MGySgt	$6,055.50
E-9	Sergeant Major	SgtMaj	$6,055.50
E-9	Sergeant Major Of The Marine Corps	SgtMaj	$6,055.50

However, it is worth mentioning that you could receive up to $50,000 in signing bonuses through the Marine Corps.

Contact a local recruiter for more information.

Benefits

The U.S. Marine Corps presents its soldiers with a fair benefits package, including:

Medical Insurance
Retirement
Affordable Life Insurance
Vacation Time
Special Pay
Housing: Allowances for living expenses, utilities, and maintenance.
Food: Allowance for the on-base dining hall and access to tax-free department and grocery stores.
Education: Marines can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus annual stipend for living expenses.

Job Reviews

You can find a number of job reviews specific to Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431) on the web:

Indeed.com has the best selection of job reviews though many are also available on GlassDoor.com:

Logistics/Embarkation is a great MOS to work in the Marines if you like travel and figuring out complex organizational problems:

Related Article: 10 Best Marine Corps Jobs For Civilian Life

Civilian Job Opportunities

It is encouraged that Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialists (MOS 0431) consider the United Services Military Apprenticeship Program (USMAP).

The military training program provides Marines, Navy, and Navy Reserve with the opportunity to improve their job skills while serving the U.S. Armed Forces.

Once you complete your civilian apprenticeship requirements while on active duty the U.S. Department of Labor will award you with a Certificate of Completion.

Receiving a DOL Certificate of Completion is very helpful in receiving civilian employment after leaving the military.

Former MOS 0431 can receive jobs in transportation, like at airports and bus hubs.

Additionally, there are many opportunities in warehouse positions as well as working as a computer operator.

Summary

An Marine Corps Logistics/Embarkation Specialist (MOS 0431) assists in an important part of military operations.

Transporting military personnel, supplies, and equipment is vital to the U.S. Armed Forces and Logistics/Embarkation Specialists are at the heart of its planning, organization, and loading.

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Jeff E.

Jeff served with the Marine Corps Reserves as an Infantryman with Kilo Co. 3rd Battalion 23rd Marines from 1997 to 2003. 3/23 was deployed to Iraq in 2003 and served primarily in the Wasit Province of Iraq. Since exiting, Jeff has served as a non-profit manager in the area of foster care and adoption.