Expert: Rod Powers - 6/7/2006

Question
Hey Rod. Lately I've been reading about the Marine Corps scout/snipers. I've been to many different sites that state the requirements and training but each site states these differently. Some say you have to pass an indoc course and probationary period, while others say you just volunteer for sniper school and start training from there. I'm tired of all these contradictions and I trust you are the man who knows the answer to my question: How does someone actually become a marine scout/sniper?  

Answer
Hi Jack,

It's no wonder you're confused.  The reason is that the Marine Corps does not have a single "scout sniper" school.  Instead, they have various scout sniper training courses, which are taught by various commands (in different areas, depending on where you are stationed).

Scout Sniper is not a primary MOS (job).  Rather, it's what is called a "Category B MOS."  

A Category B MOS is a short-term duty assignment. Enlisted members who are performing duties in these MOS's return to their primary MOS once the duty-period has been completed. Enlisted personnel are promoted within their primary MOS while they are performing duties in a Category B Billet.

In other words, if selected, you do this job for a year, or two, or three, then you return to whatever your primary job is.

For details, see my articles at:  http://usmilitary.about.com/cs/marines/a/marinesniper.htm and http://usmilitary.about.com/od/enlistedjo2/a/8541.htm

In short, you can become a "scout sniper" in the Marine Corps, but it will not be your primary job, and is only temporary.  At the end of the period, (usually two or three years), you'll be returned to whatever your primary job is.

Hope this helps!

Rod Powers
http://usmilitary.about.com