What Are Some Jobs in the US Army That Allow You to Stay Close to Home?

Ever considered a career in the US Army but worried about the constant relocation? The good news is, there are options that allow you to stay close to your home and avoid frequent relocations. Let's explore some of these viable paths and understand what they entail.

1. Join the Army National Guard or Army Reserve

If you want to join the military but are not fully willing to commit your entire life to it, the Army National Guard (ARNG) and the Army Reserve (USAR) can be an ideal choice. These are part-time commitments, allowing you to maintain a civilian occupation as well. Unlike the full-time active duty, the ARNG and USAR offer you flexibility in choosing your duty stations based on MOS (Military Occupational Specialty) openings.

As a part-time service, you will only need to serve one weekend a month and two weeks of annual training. However, it's important to plan for your civilian life, whether it's further education or a full-time job. Living quarters or living spaces are not provided during this active period.

While this arrangement sounds promising, it's worth noting that you are subject to mobilization and potential deployment by the governor or the President if necessary. Therefore, while it may seem like a stable option, don't take it too lightly. This is the part-time Army, and its commitments can still be demanding.

2. Active Guard Reserve (AGR) Program for Long-Term Stability

For a more permanent solution, the Active Guard Reserve (AGR) program offers the best of both worlds. Once you've been in the ARNG or USAR for a few years, you may be eligible for this program. In this program, you continue to serve on your reserve or guard contract but work full-time and receive the same benefits as active duty soldiers.

You are typically assigned only to reserve and guard units, and you are responsible for maintaining the equipment between drills. While you might face other duties and responsibilities, this arrangement offers a fixed environment, making it easier to plan your civilian life.

It's important to note that the AGR program is highly competitive and typically not open to new applicants. Therefore, joining sooner rather than later is recommended to secure a spot.

3. Specialized Military Occupational Specialties (MOS) that Limit Deployments

If you're willing to explore specific MOS that are less likely to be deployed, certain career fields can provide a better chance of staying close to home. For instance, boat crewmen within the Army can often spend several three-year tours in a row due to the limited number of locations where they can serve. However, it's crucial to understand the trade-offs involved.

These jobs have a smaller career field with limited promotion potential. Additionally, major awards are often given during permanent change of station (PCS) tours, so you may miss out on recognition and advancement opportunities. Nonetheless, if you are passionate about this specialty and are willing to accept the limitations, it can be a fulfilling career.

Conclusion

The US Army offers flexibility to those who want to balance military service with civilian life. Options like the Army National Guard, Army Reserve, and the AGR program provide opportunities to stay close to home. However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks and make an informed decision based on your career goals and personal preferences.

Remember, the army is known for its dynamic nature, with frequent relocations being a significant part of the experience. If you are not ready to leave home and face the uncertainty of moving every few years, you might want to explore other career options. The Army is not for everyone, and that's okay.