Overview

The allied trade specialist is primarily responsible for supervising and performing the fabrication, repair and modification of metallic and nonmetallic parts. They operate lathes, drill presses, grinders and other machine shop equipment.

Job Duties

• Fabricate, repair, and modify metallic and nonmetallic parts
  
• Utilize such machines as engine lathes, utility grinders, power cutoff saws, hydraulic presses, drill presses, oxyacetylene, electric arc, inert gas welding machines and their associated attachments, accessories and tools

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 an allied trade specialist requires 10 weeks of Basic Combat Training and 13 weeks of Advanced Individual Training with on-the-job instructions. Part of this time is spent in the classroom and part in the field, including practice in machine operation.  

Some of the skills you’ll learn are:

• Machine types, setup and operation
  
• Use of different metals
  
• Safety procedures

Helpful Skills

• Interest in math, general science, metal working and mechanical drawing
  
• Preference for working with the hands
  
• Making things and finding solutions to mechanical problems
  
• Ability to apply mathematical formulas

Required ASVAB Score(s)

Learn more about the ASVAB and see what jobs you could qualify for.

Compensation

Total compensation includes housing, medical, food, special pay, and vacation time. Learn more about total compensation.

Education Benefits

In the Army, qualified students can earn full-tuition, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, plus an annual stipend for living expenses. Learn more about education benefits.

Future Civilian Careers

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career with factories and repair shops in many industries, including the electrical product, automotive and heavy machinery industries.