42A MOS Human Resources Specialist — Civilian Career Guide
Manages personnel records, processes, and actions. One of the most directly transferable MOS codes to civilian HR careers.
CAREER PATHS
6
TOP SALARY
$72,910.00
AVG SALARY
$68,983.00
Civilian Career Matches
Based on BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2024). Salaries are national medians — your area may vary.
HR Generalist
SOC 13-1071
$72,910.00
median/yr
Recruiter
SOC 13-1071
$72,910.00
median/yr
Talent Acquisition Specialist
SOC 13-1071
$72,910.00
median/yr
HR Coordinator
SOC 43-4161
$49,960.00
median/yr
Benefits Administrator
SOC 13-1141
$72,300.00
median/yr
HRIS Analyst
SOC 13-1071
$72,910.00
median/yr
What's your next step?
You've got the civilian career picture. Now: pick what to tackle next. Most 42A Human Resources Specialist veterans separating in the next 12 months should start here.
Do this first
Start your VA disability claim
File before separation. Every day = back-pay you can't recover. Free claims tracker covers 110+ conditions.
Where to settle
Compare 50 states for veterans
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12-month roadmap
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TAP class, VA enrollment, terminal leave, TSP, SkillBridge — all the deadlines no one tells you.
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Skills That Transfer
Recommended Certifications
These certifications can increase your salary by 10-25% and make you more competitive for civilian roles.
Translate Your 42A Experience to a Civilian Resume
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42A Jobs by State
Explore 42A Human Resources Specialist career opportunities by state.