Rarest military jobs you’ve never heard of

When it comes to the U.S. military, most of us know to never be surprised at what you might find, even if it’s a decade after an event took place. However, that doesn’t mean events are any less interesting to learn about … or jobs that are no longer in existence. From pigeon couriers to ice tunnel planners to titles so strange you would only think to see them in the movies, these were real positions created by the American government. Even though some no longer exist today, it’s an interesting look at how they came to be and how they molded departments into what they are today.

Take a look at these rare, often unheard-of military gigs. 

1. Combat Weathermen 

Imagine a weatherman, but if he were at war. If you think about it, weather conditions are an important part of carrying out military missions. And you can’t just rely on the local news to give you the stats, especially if you’re in a remote location. Thus, the need for the Combat Weatherman. This job is usually aligned with Special Forces. The Weatherman carries tech that allows them to set up and pinpoint key weather factors. Their data is then passed on so others can plan out assignments like attacks, air and fire support, and other military operations. 

2. Instrument Repair Technician

The military is known for its impressive bands, which are present at graduation ceremonies, retirements, and more. But when something goes wrong with those important instruments, someone has to fix them. Enter the Instrument Repair Technician. These highly skilled soldiers are able to fix a number of issues with brass, string, and woodwind instruments. Thankfully, it’s up to them to keep the music alive and sounding like it should. 

3. Entomologists

Studying bugs isn’t just for zoos, or when you’re stateside. In fact, knowing what types of bugs are around you is important when you’re in a new space, especially soldiers settling into a new deployment or location far from home. Having an expert check out the local bugs can give great insight into environmental factors, terrain, and potential dangers that wouldn’t have otherwise been obvious. And most importantly, the entomologist can point out which insects are dangerous.

4. Ground Sensor Marines

When you’re driving on the highway, you’re likely to see small black cords that collect data. The government puts these in place to track traffic counts, speed, and more. That’s exactly what Ground Sensor Marines do, but while being way more sneaky. Since Vietnam, a group of Marines have placed small ground sensors to track enemy movement. They camouflage themselves to place in-ground sensors that report on whatever crosses their path. In all, there are less than 100 Marines in this position at any given time. 

5. Parachute Riggers

Someone has to get parachutes ready to go, right? And more importantly, they have to get them safe. Parachute riggers do just that. They are in charge of repacking and ensuring that jumping apparatuses are ready to be used. They also are expert jumpers themselves, having to retrieve parachutes and fly to new locations to get the job done. In fact, they usually get more jump time than most other military members. Considering everyone’s safety relies on their skills, it’s good they are using the same chutes! 

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