Infantry Officer

Overview

The Infantry Officer is responsible for leading the Infantry and combined Armed Forces during land combat.

Job duties

• The employment of Infantry Soldiers at all levels of command in U.S. and multinational operations.
• At increasing levels of leadership, an Infantry Captain may:
• Command and control the infantry and combined armed companies and company-sized units (200 - 300 Soldiers)
• Develop doctrine, organizations and equipment for unique infantry missions
• Instruct infantry skills at service schools and combat training centers
• Serve as an infantry advisor to other units, including Army National Guard and U.S. Army Reserve organizations

Training

Job training for an Infantry Officer requires completion of the 17-week Infantry Officer Basic Course. This course will emphasize the leadership, tactics and technical competence that are common to the infantry. Part of this time is spent in the classroom, and part takes place in the field. Infantry Officers can also volunteer for Airborne and Ranger School or for specific developmental assignments in Airborne and Ranger units.

Helpful skills

• Self-discipline, confidence and intelligence
• Physical and mental fitness to perform under pressure
• Ability to make quick decisions
• Capability to bear numerous responsibilities

Civilian career relevance

The skills you learn will help prepare you for a career in fields such as business management. An officer in the Army National Guard is closely related to managerial positions in corporations.