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Combat Engineer

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Combat Engineer - 12B


  • Active/Reserve:Both
  • Officer/Enlisted:Enlisted
  • Restrictions:None

Overview

Combat engineers primarily supervise, serve or assist as a member of a team when they are tackling rough terrain in combat situations. They provide their expertise in areas such as mobility, countermobility, survivability and general engineering.

Job Duties

  • Construct fighting positions, fixed/floating bridges, obstacles and defensive positions
  • Place and detonate explosives
  • Conduct operations that include route clearance of obstacles and rivers
  • Prepare and install firing systems for demolition and explosives
  • Detect mines visually or with mine detectors

    • Requirements

  • Those who want to serve must first take the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, a series of tests that helps you better understand your strengths and identify which Army jobs are best for you.

    • Training

    Job training for combat engineers requires 14 weeks of One Station Unit Training, which includes Basic Combat Training and Advanced Individual Training. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field with on-the-job instructions. Some of the skills you'll learn are:

  • Basic demolitions
  • Basic explosive hazards
  • Constructing wire obstacles
  • Fixed bridge building
  • Basic urban operations
  • Operating heavy equipment

    • Helpful Skills

  • Ability to use hand and power tools
  • Perform strenuous physical activities over long periods of time
  • Interest in engineering
  • Enjoy working outdoors

    • ASVAB

    The Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) is an examination that is administered by the United States Military Entrance Processing Command. It is used to determine qualification and helps predict future academic and occupational success in the military.

  • Combat (CO): 87

    • Compensation

  • Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time.

    • See the whole list of Army Occupational Specialties here

    To learn more about the Army's rank structure, see our complete list of Army ranks.
    To see a list of military medals and decorations that can be earned by servicemembers in the Army and other branches of the military, see our list of military decorations and medals.